Historic hotel to close in UK city after 161 years – ‘deeply upsetting | UK | News

The historic Grosvenor Hotel in Chester has given an update after confirming it will close its doors in September 2026. Next to the iconic Eastgate Clock, World War II. Bespoke Hotels, which manages the Grade II listed building, informed staff of the decision last week after unsafe concrete (Reinforced Autoclaved Aerated Concrete) was discovered above the hotel’s function suites. The hotel said the building, which dates back to 1865, will remain open and ‘operate normally’ for the next six months.

The hotel will close its doors on September 30, marking the end of an era for Chester and a treasured part of the city’s history. Although the building dates back to 1865, there has been an inn on this site since the late sixteenth century. Over the years, the five-star hotel has become known for its exceptional service and has hosted many guests, weddings and afternoon teas.

Guests have long enjoyed the hotel’s dining facilities, including the superb 2 AA Rosette restaurant La Brasserie and Champagne Bar, offering all-day dining, and the 3 AA Rosette fine dining restaurant Arkle. The Spa at Chester Grosvenor also offers a range of traditional, contemporary and holistic therapies, as well as a thermal suite with a crystal steam room, salt cave, sauna, foot baths and relaxation lounge.

In the statement made by Cheshire Live Bespoke Hotels, which has run the hotel since 2015, said last week: “Following the recent discovery of RAAC above the function suites, we have made the very difficult decision to cease operating Chester Grosvenor due to the scale and complexity of the works required to implement a long-term solution, as well as the refurbishment required.

“As a result, it is our intention to close the hotel on 30 September 2026. Our immediate focus is on supporting our colleagues in the coming weeks.

“Following the discovery of Reinforced Autoclaved Aerated Concrete (RAAC) during recent investigations, we have closed our conference rooms. The safety of our guests and colleagues is of paramount importance and the affected area will remain closed as a precaution. All other public areas of the hotel and its car park are unaffected and continue to operate normally.”

The hotel has since provided an update. The hotel said it was “taking a break for a while out of respect for our team” and expressed gratitude for the messages of support it received. The hotel confirmed it will continue to operate normally for the next six months and guests are encouraged to make the most of the remaining months.

In an Instagram post shared on Friday, March 28, the hotel said: “Following the announcement that we will be closing on September 30, 2026, we have taken a break over the last few days to respect our team.

“We have been incredibly touched by the kindness and support in your messages. Many of our team have given years, even decades, to The Chester Grosvenor and our focus now is on supporting them over the coming months.

“For the next six months, The Chester Grosvenor will continue to operate as normal, providing the iconic service, warmth and unforgettable style that has shaped so many precious moments.

“Over the coming weeks, we’ll be sharing how you can experience Chester Grosvenor in the coming months, including how to redeem gift vouchers, accommodation or dining reservations. We invite you to create lasting memories with us as we celebrate this final chapter together, honoring the people who make this so meaningful.”

One Instagram user reacted to the news: “We have stayed at the hotel on many special occasions over many years and that’s why we love Chester! My thoughts are with all the wonderful staff.”

Another person wrote: “So sad. We got married at The Chester Grosvenor in 2001. It’s such a special place.”

Fellow hotel Crowne Plaza Chester also commented on the closure: “A truly iconic part of Chester. We send our support to your team as you move forward over the coming months. Your impact on the city and its people will not be forgotten.”

Another added: “Grosvenor Chester! This is iconic. What a huge loss. Sending love to the truly wonderful staff who made this such a wonderful experience for so many.”

A letter sent to staff by operations chief Richard Grove and seen by Cheshire Live when the closure was announced said: “Following the recent discovery of RAAC on functional packages, we have taken the very difficult decision to cease operating Chester Grosvenor due to the scale and complexity of the works required to implement a long-term solution, as well as the refurbishment required.

“As a result, it is our intention to close the hotel on September 30, 2026. We understand that this decision will be deeply regrettable, may lead to the loss of jobs for many of our colleagues, and will impact our customers and guests to whom you have provided great service for many years.

“This is not a decision we take lightly and is in no way a reflection of the team’s performance. We fully appreciate the impact this will have on you and your family. Our focus now is on supporting you through this process and we will share more information shortly about what this means for you and the support available.”