The Chester Grosvenor and Spa

There are five different standards (from classic to the presidential suite) and no two rooms have been styled in the same way, though timeless and opulent décor reigns throughout. Features range from televisions that rise from the end of the bed to huge corner sofas. Standards include bathrobes and slippers, Molton Brown bath products, heated bathroom mirrors (such a blessing), a turn-down service, climate control, three telephone lines, marble bathroom floors and enormous beds. A truly comfortable and memorable stay is a given. There’s also a little bit of Chester in the rooms, with beautifully striking photography of the city’s best bits dotted around. Views from the often floor-to-ceiling windows range from Eastgate Street, with its famous clock, to a rather dull courtyard, which the hotel is hoping to spruce up a bit in the future. I’ve heard a couple of complaints about noise from the multi-storey car park at the rear of the hotel, but I’ve never heard a thing and I’m a fairly light sleeper. In fact, considering this is a city centre hotel, I am always pleasantly surprised by the tranquil nights. Other complaints also extend to the “missing” hospitality tray and, while this is a minor annoyance, trays are available on request – always make sure you ask for one before you go and pay £7.50 for two teas in La Brasserie (as, I confess, I did).