Handwritten Collection to enter the UK with historic hotel in Chester

Handwritten Collection, an anthology of carefully curated hotels, today announced the signing of The Queen at Chester Hotel, which marks the brand’s first opening in the UK.

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.

Graham Dodd, Vice President of Development for UK & Ireland at Accor, said: “This latest addition is testament to our strong ambition for the UK market, where we see strong potential for Handwritten Collection as well as continued expansion for many more Accor brands. This hotel encapsulates everything the Handwritten Collection brand celebrates: individuality, local personality and hospitality delivered with heart. Alongside being the first Handwritten in the UK, this debut also marks the continuation of the collection’s impressive growth across Europe and beyond.”

Andrew Munt, CEO, LGH Hotel Management Limited, said: “The Queen at Chester’s individuality, heritage and character sit at the heart of the hotel, and partnering with Accor allows us to protect that identity while benefiting from a powerful global commercial platform. We look forward to working together to ensure this exceptional heritage property is a long‑term success, blending historic character with contemporary hospitality.”

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. 

Handwritten Collection, launched in 2023, brings together characterful hotels that reflect the story, personality and passions of the people who care for them. Each address offers a distinct environment where human connection and individuality shape stays for travelers seeking more than accommodation alone. With a growing footprint and more than 40 hotels in 20 countries worldwide, Handwritten Collection continues to expand into new destinations. Handwritten Collection 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.

handwrittencollection.com: all.com: group.accor.com