The historic Grosvenor Hotel in Chester has provided an update after confirming it will close its doors in September 2026. Bespoke Hotels, the company managing the Grade II listed building next to the iconic Eastgate Clock, informed staff of the decision last week following the discovery of unsafe concrete (Reinforced Autoclaved Aerated Concrete) above the hotel’s function suites. The building, which dates back to 1865, will remain open and ‘operate as normal’ for the next six months, the hotel has now revealed.

The hotel is a cherished part of the city’s history and will close its doors on September 30, marking the end of an era for Chester. While 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 well known for its exceptional service and has hosted many guests, weddings and afternoon teas.

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

In a statement provided to Cheshire Live last week, Bespoke Hotels who’ve been running the hotel since 2015, said: “Following the recent discovery of RAAC above the function suites, the scale and complexity of the works required to put a long-term solution in place, alongside necessary refurbishment works, we have taken the very difficult decision to cease operating The Chester Grosvenor.

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

“We closed our conference suites after the discovery of Reinforced Autoclaved Aerated Concrete (RAAC) during recent surveys. The safety of our guests and colleagues is of the utmost importance and the affected area will remain closed as a precaution. All other public areas of the hotel, as well as the car park, are unaffected and continue to operate as normal.”

The hotel has since provided an update. The hotel said it had “taken a moment to pause out of respect for our team” and expressed gratitude for the messages of support it had received. The hotel confirmed it will continue to operate as normal for the next six months and guests have been encouraged to make the most of the remaining months.

In an Instagram post shared on Friday, March 28, the hotel said: “Over the past few days, we’ve taken a moment to pause out of respect for our team following the announcement of our closure on 30th September 2026.

“We’ve been incredibly touched by the kindness and support in your messages. So many of our team have given years – some even decades – to The Chester Grosvenor, and our focus now is on supporting them through the months ahead.

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

“In the coming weeks, we’ll be sharing how you can experience The Chester Grosvenor in the months ahead, including how to redeem gift vouchers and book stays or dining. We invite you to create lasting memories with us as we mark this final chapter together – honouring the people who have made it so meaningful.”

One Instagram user reacted to the news: “We have stayed at the hotel for many years on so many special occasions, and it’s the reason we love Chester! My thoughts are with all of the wonderful staff.”

Another person wrote: “Very sad. We were married at The Chester Grosvenor in 2001. It’s a very special place.”

Fellow hotel Crowne Plaza Chester also commented on the closure: “A truly iconic part of Chester. Sending support to your team as you navigate the months ahead. Your impact on the city and its people won’t be forgotten.”

Someone else added: “The Grosvenor IS Chester! It’s iconic. What a huge loss. Sending love to all the truly wonderful staff that made it such a wonderful experience for so many.”

In a letter sent to staff by chief operating officer Richard Grove and seen by Cheshire Live when the closure was announced, he said: “Following the recent discovery of RAAC above the function suites, the scale and complexity of the works required to put a long-term solution in place, alongside necessary refurbishment works, we have taken the very difficult decision to cease operating The Chester Grosvenor.

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

“This is not a decision we have taken lightly, and it is in no way a reflection of the performance of the team. We fully appreciate the impact it will have on you and your families. Our immediate focus is on supporting you through this process, and we will be sharing further information shortly about what this means for you and support available.”