The Queen at Chester Hotel

Expected to open this summer following an extensive, developer-led renovation project, the reimagined property will introduce the brand's signature blend of personality, warmth and heartfelt hospitality to one of Britain's most historic and culturally rich cathedral cities. The hotel was built in 1860 as a grand gateway for first-class rail travellers and is a landmark Italianate building, once considered the first skyscraper of its time and host to illustrious guests such as Charles Dickens.

Designed to bring together characterful independent hotels, Handwritten Collection showcases properties defined by their strong personality and genuine warmth of their hosts. Since its launch in 2023, the brand has rapidly grown to more than 40 curated hotels in 20 countries around the world.

The Queen at Chester Hotel, Handwritten Collection will feature a diverse range of 218 guest rooms alongside the V&A Restaurant - serving modern British cuisine - a stylish lounge and bar offering signature cocktails and afternoon tea, as well as a terrace for alfresco dining. Alongside seven meeting and event spaces, including a grand ballroom for up to 400 delegates, the hotel will also offer a fitness centre.

The hotel, ideally located directly opposite Chester Railway Station, is just a 10-minute walk from the historic city centre. Set within the attractive and affluent cathedral city, situated 50km south-west of Manchester and 23km south of Liverpool, the hotel offers guests easy access to the city's Roman walls, The Rows, medieval cathedral, and the largest Roman amphitheatre in Britain. Its excellent transport links make it a highly accessible base for both business and leisure travellers.

This latest signing marks Accor's first partnership with LGH Hotel Management Limited under a franchising agreement.