Accor’s boutique hotel brand Handwritten Collection has signed The Queen at Chester Hotel as its first property in the UK.

The opening is planned for later this year, following a substantial developer-led renovation.

Originally opened in 1860, the Queen at Chester Hotel is located within a short distance from the city centre.

It will provide convenient access to local historical sites, including the Roman walls, the medieval cathedral, and Britain’s largest Roman amphitheatre.

The revamped hotel will offer 218 rooms, the V&A Restaurant, a lounge and bar offering cocktails and afternoon tea, and a terrace for outdoor dining, alongside a fitness centre. Meeting facilities will include a ballroom for up to 400 attendees.

Accor UK & Ireland development vice-president Graham Dodd said: “This latest addition is testament to our strong ambition for the UK market, where we see strong potential for Handwritten Collection as well as continued expansion for many more Accor brands.

“Alongside being the first Handwritten in the UK, this debut also marks the continuation of the collection's impressive growth across Europe and beyond.”

The agreement represents the first collaboration between Accor and LGH Hotel Management under a franchise arrangement.

LGH Hotel Management CEO Andrew Munt said: “The Queen at Chester's individuality, heritage and character sit at the heart of the hotel, and partnering with Accor allows us to protect that identity while benefiting from a powerful global commercial platform.

“We look forward to working together to ensure this exceptional heritage property is a long‑term success, blending historic character with contemporary hospitality.”

Handwritten Collection was established in 2023. The portfolio has since grown to more than 40 hotels across 20 countries.

In July 2025, Accor collaborated with Khai Hoang TM DV-Tourism Company to open a Handwritten Collection hotel in Nha Trang, Vietnam.