Handwritten Collection, a characterful collection of bespoke hotels by Accor, today announces the opening of The Queen at Chester Hotel – Handwritten Collection, marking the brand’s first address in the UK. Bringing one of the city’s most iconic landmarks into its fast-growing portfolio, the opening builds on Handwritten Collection’s continued global momentum, following the recent milestone of opening 50 hotels worldwide.
Guests can enjoy 218 beautifully appointed bedrooms, including spacious family rooms and elegant suites. Alongside dining options such as The King’s Grill and the V&A Restaurant, where seasonal dishes are crafted using fresh, locally sourced ingredients. Diners can also relax in the V&A Lounge Bar, offering quintessentially British afternoon tea and crafted cocktails or head to the V&A Terrace, where a specially curated menu provides the perfect setting for al fresco dining.
Ideally positioned just moments from Chester’s historic city centre, The Queen at Chester Hotel – Handwritten Collection places guests at the heart of one of the UK’s most captivating destinations, renowned for its unique Chester Rows, magnificent historical Cathedral, ancient Roman walls and Britain’s largest Roman amphitheatre. Combining more than 165 years of heritage with the distinctive character and personal touches that define Handwritten Collection, the hotel offers an authentic gateway to the city’s rich history and vibrant culture.
The opening marks another significant milestone in the continued expansion of Handwritten Collection, further strengthening a portfolio of distinctive hotels that celebrate individuality, local character and authentic hospitality. Now present in 20 countries, with 50+ hotels open and more than 50 additional hotels in development, Handwritten Collection is designed for travellers seeking memorable experiences and unique stories.
Managed by LGH Hotel Management Limited, The Queen at Chester Hotel – Handwritten Collection is the latest addition to Accor’s hotel portfolio in the UK, including over 200 hotels under approximately 20 brands.
Aiden McAuley, a spokesperson for Accor in the UK & Ireland, said: “As a UK first for the Handwritten Collection, this latest addition is testament to our strong ambition for the market, where we see great potential for continued expansion across our brands. This hotel encapsulates individuality, local personality and hospitality delivered with heart, all of which the Handwritten Collection brand celebrates.”
Andrew Munt, CEO of LGH Hotel Management Limited, said: “Through our partnership with Accor, we look forward to welcoming guests from around the world to experience the unique character, history, and warmth that make Chester so special. Perfectly positioned in the heart of this vibrant historic city, the hotel offers an authentic gateway to Chester’s rich heritage, iconic attractions, and thriving local culture. Together, we are committed to ensuring the property’s long-term success, creating memorable experiences for both visitors and the local community alike.”
First opened in 1860 as a grand hotel for first-class rail travellers, the property has long been regarded as one of Chester’s most iconic landmarks and has welcomed notable guests including Charles Dickens and Lillie Langtry throughout its history. Today, as part of Handwritten Collection, the hotel celebrates that rich heritage through thoughtfully preserved architecture, warm hospitality and meaningful touches that connect guests with its unique past.
Bookings can be made at www.all.accor.com, where guests can also take advantage of Accor’s award-winning loyalty programme and booking platform ALL Accor. Members earn points during their stay, which can be redeemed for rewards, services and experiences worldwide.
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ABOUT ACCOR
Accor is a world-leading hospitality group offering stays and experiences across more than 110 countries with over 5,800 hotels and resorts, 10,000 bars & restaurants, wellness facilities and flexible workspaces. The Group has one of the industry’s most diverse hospitality ecosystems, encompassing more than 45 hotel brands from luxury to economy, as well as lifestyle, with Ennismore. ALL Accor, the booking platform and loyalty program embodies the Accor promise during and beyond the hotel stay and gives its members access to unique experiences. Accor is focused on driving positive action through business ethics, responsible tourism, environmental sustainability, community engagement, diversity, and inclusivity. Accor’s mission is reflected in the Group’s purpose: Pioneering the art of responsible hospitality, connecting cultures, with heartfelt care. Founded in 1967, Accor SA is headquartered in France. Included in the CAC 40 index, the Group is publicly listed on the Euronext Paris Stock Exchange (ISIN code: FR0000120404) and on the OTC Market (Ticker: ACCYY) in the United States. For more information, please visit group.accor.com or follow us on X, Facebook, LinkedIn, Instagram and TikTok.
ABOUT HANDWRITTEN COLLECTION
Handwritten Collection was created in 2023 to bring together hotels with a unique personality, intimately reflecting the character and warmth of the people who love and look after them. Believing hotels are where genuine connections are made and authentic travel experiences are enriched, the hoteliers of Handwritten Collection invite travellers to experience a twist on traditional hospitality without turning it on its head. The guest experience at Handwritten Collection brings to life the spirit of the host, their tastes, their passions and the little quirks of their personality. Handwritten Collection, a portfolio of over 50 hotels globally, is part of Accor, a world leading hospitality group counting over 5,800 properties throughout more than 110 countries, and a participating brand in ALL Accor, a booking platform and loyalty program providing access to a wide variety of rewards, services and experiences.
