The Chester Grosvenor Hotel
| Company type | Hotel |
|---|---|
| Industry | Hospitality |
| Founded | 1863 |
| Founder | Richard Grosvenor, 2nd Marquess of Westminster |
| Headquarters | Chester , England, United Kingdom |
Area served | Chester city centre |
| Owner | Duke of Westminster estate |
| Parent | Bespoke Hotels (management) |
| Website | www |
The Chester Grosvenor Hotel is a Grade II listed building located in Chester, Cheshire, England. Constructed between 1863 and 1865, it remains under the ownership of the Duke of Westminster.
The hotel's restaurant was awarded a Michelin star from 1990 until it lost the accolade in the 2022 edition, a consequence of an extended closure due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Following its reopening, the establishment is currently undergoing Michelin reevaluation. Management of the hotel is handled by Bespoke Hotels.
Location
Positioned on Eastgate within Chester’s city centre, the Chester Grosvenor stands adjacent to the iconic Eastgate Clock and lies near prominent attractions including Grosvenor Park, The Mall Chester, Chester Cathedral, and the historic city walls.
History
Prior to the existing structure (1863–66), the site was home to The Golden Talbot tavern, with origins tracing back to at least the era of Elizabeth I. This was replaced in 1784 by The Royal Hotel, established by politician John Crewe, 1st Baron Crewe. The hotel served as headquarters for the Independent Party opposing the Grosvenor family. In 1815, ownership transferred to Robert Grosvenor, who renamed it Grosvenor Hotel, elevating it to Chester’s leading accommodation. The original building was demolished in 1863 under Richard Grosvenor, 2nd Marquess of Westminster.
The current hotel was designed by Chester architect Thomas Mainwaring Penson—his final significant commission—and completed after his death by R. K. Penson & A. Ritchie. When Richard’s son, Hugh Grosvenor, 1st Duke of Westminster, received his dukedom in 1874, ownership passed to the Duke of Westminster estate. The structure was designated as a Grade II listed building on 10 January 1972.
Hotel and restaurant
The upper exterior showcases characteristic half-timbered black-and-white Tudor Revival style architecture, a hallmark of Chester’s aesthetic. Offering five-star luxury lodging, the hotel comprises 68 bedrooms and 12 suites. Facilities include a fitness centre, spa, lounge, bar, meeting rooms, and two dining venues: the Parisian-inspired La Brasserie and the esteemed Simon Radley at the Chester Grosvenor. Formerly known as The Arkle, the main restaurant was rebranded in 2008 to honour head chef Simon Radley, who joined in 1986. By 2013, it had achieved its 24th consecutive Michelin star, ranking among only four UK restaurants with such longevity and standing as the sole Michelin-starred venue in northern England. It maintained this distinction for 30 straight years until 2022.
Distinguished visitors have included Princess Diana and multiple Princes of Wales. Additionally, Queen Elizabeth II attended during celebrations for Grosvenor family weddings.