Hotel Indigo Chester in is the perfect boutique hotel for a relaxing escape, which encompasses everything you need from sumptuous rooms to exquisite food. Writer Camille Allcroft checks in for the night to discover more
The Roman city of Chester has long been seen as a desirable destination for a short break – not only is it steeped in history, but it has so much to offer in terms of culture, shopping and dining out and a visit to The Roman Amphitheatre is definitely not to be missed.
If you are looking for a base from which to explore, then Hotel Indigo Chester could not be more ideal, with many of the attractions the city has to offer situated within a short walking distance.
The first impression I had of the hotel was that it would not look out of place in Manhattan with its red brick façade and covered outdoor terrace, which is an appealing place to linger for a drink or two and there are cosy blankets provided for those chillier days which is a thoughtful touch.
Upon arrival, there was a warm greeting from the courteous reception team and the reception area itself created a welcoming first impression, with plush velvet armchairs and marble tables.
The Room
I was soon checked into my deluxe room which had a contemporary feel, with artwork on the walls which gave a nod to the proximity of Chester Racecourse, which is the oldest racecourse in the world having been established in 1539.
I was pleasantly surprised to find a spacious balcony which boasted an impressive view over the bustling city and the distant Welsh mountains. The balcony had a table for two, and it was just the place to enjoy a cup of coffee from the room’s Nespresso machine.
Everything I would expect for a relaxing stay was on hand, as well as some things I did not, such as a comfortable Chaise Longue where I caught up on a few pages of the book I am currently reading – in fact I could have easily dozed off.
As we all know, the mini bar can be an expensive temptation when staying at a hotel, so I was particularly impressed to find that there was an array of complimentary drinks and snacks included in the room and there was a desk area too, so I was able to reply to a few emails using the high speed Wi-Fi.
The bathroom had a relaxing ambience, with a large walk-in rainfall shower and Zenology bath and shower products which had a wonderfully restful sycamore scent and feeling thoroughly refreshed after my shower, I got snuggled up in my hotel bathrobe and slippers before getting ready for dinner.
The Food & Drink
It is always a bonus when a hotel has an exceptional restaurant and The Forge certainly did not disappoint – notably, the restaurant was awarded a prestigious 2 AA Rosettes in November of 2023 and it was not difficult to see why.
The elegant bar area is a glamorous setting for a pre-dinner cocktail and the dining room itself feels sophisticated with a forest green colour scheme, dark wood accents and candlelit tables. The open kitchen provides a natural focal point and it is absorbing to watch the chefs busily plating up and tending the grill, where oak and beech logs crackle in the flames.
Head Chef Dan Regan and his team have created a menu which incorporates local and seasonal ingredients and each dish was presented with exactly the attention to detail which is synonymous with a restaurant of this standard.
Lovers of steak can look forward to perusing a selection of cuts which are on display in the dry – age fridges, however if you prefer seafood or perhaps a vegetarian dish, you will find both on the menu – the monkfish tail with shellfish glaze and caviar sounded incredible, as did the smoked roasted aubergine.
Freshly baked focaccia with chicken fat butter and a snack of ham hock croquettes got my meal underway and the burnt apple purée added a refreshing touch to the smoky meat within the croquettes.
My starter of torched Kidderton ash goats cheese was rounded off well with earthy beetroot and olive crumb and for the main course, Cumbrian chicken breast was deliciously tender while black garlic and bacon jus gave the dish even more depth of flavour.
It was impossible not to be tempted by the sides, so I opted for Chantenay carrots with maple glaze and of course triple cooked chips.
There was scarcely room left for dessert, but a Tanzania chocolate delice made for an indulgent dénouement to the meal whereas the strawberries and cream with fromage frais and strawberry tuile, sounded appealing as a lighter option.
Diners can expect an impressive wine list and I was in the mood for a deep red, so I went for the Equino Malbec, which paired perfectly with the food with its notes of blackberry.
If you are unsure which wine to choose, then you need only consult the food menu where each dish helpfully comes with a wine suggestion listed beneath.
After a restful night’s sleep in the Hypnos bed, it was time for breakfast which was also served in The Forge Restaurant. There was a vast selection of items to choose from such as fresh fruit, pastries, cereals and juice as well as a choice of hot dishes cooked to order and it is worth noting that room service breakfast is available, should you wish to enjoy the added luxury of breakfast in bed.
The Wordrobe Verdict
In summary I would say that Hotel Indigo Chester is the perfect boutique hotel for a relaxing escape, which encompasses everything you need from sumptuous rooms to exquisite food.
The only downside for me was that I could happily have stayed for longer and I set off feeling rejuvenated with the sole dilemma being how to spend the day ahead – with choices such as a river cruise, a stroll around the ancient city walls or some shopping in the timbered galleries of The Rows, there were certainly plenty of options on offer.
Make it happen
Where: Grosvenor Park Rd, Chester CH1 1QQ
How: Find out more and make a booking via chester.hotelindigo.com
Words by Camille Allcroft, freelance writer
