Oddfellows

If you love luxury but hate ‘stuffy’ then Oddfellows is the place for you, a quirky boutique hotel set inside a Georgian townhouse at the heart of the city.

Three famous Cestrians are said to have inspired the Oddfellows’ vibe; Eastgate clock designer John Douglas, cinematographer Peter Newbrook and illustrator Randolph Caldecott. The result is a smart and stylish combination with plenty of nods to historic Chester, dashed with a playful humour that flows throughout every room and hallway.

Budding novelists might find inspiration in the reception’s curious wall of typewriters, while the wood-panelled Lounge Bar is a twitcher’s treat, a cosy fireside haunt adorned with drawings of woodland birds. It’s very British, very cool and a little bit bonkers; Madonna doesn’t do hotels but if she did then this would be the blueprint.

The garden bar hosts its own native wildlife in summer, a popular spot to enjoy a cocktail and mingle with exotic creatures, fresh from Chester races. The restaurant is worth a shout too; fabulous and fun with finesse, serving an eclectic a la carte menu that focuses on locally sourced and seasonal produce.

There are 18 individually styled bedrooms, all immaculately presented with unique features. Caldecott classic rooms have everything you need for a comfortable stay while the Newbrook suites offer enormous six-foot circular beds and the perfect excuse to add on a late checkout. For those with grand designs, the Douglas Duplex throws in a separate bedroom and sitting room, should you tire of watching the stars through the skylight up top.

The golden ticket in rooms has to be Lady Mary’s Loft. The story goes that this is the very place where the original 17th century owner would have laid her weary head and it’s easy enough to imagine as you sink back into the roll top bath and admire the chimney top views.

For all your creature comforts, accommodation also includes three self-contained apartments with plenty of space to party. Just a short stroll from the river and nestled among some of Chester’s finest shops, bars and restaurants, Oddfellows is a charming city retreat that offers style with substance and a warm welcome for all seasons.