Hotel Indigo Chester
Travel from London to Chester is remarkably straightforward with Avanti West Coast, whose direct service from Euston makes the journey both swift and comfortable. In First Class, the experience feels considered from the outset: spacious seating, attentive yet unobtrusive service, and a calm atmosphere that allows you to either work productively or ease into the rhythm of a short break. Light refreshments are served at your seat, and with reliable Wi-Fi throughout, the journey passes efficiently. In under two hours, the urban pace of the capital gives way to Cheshire’s softer landscape, and you arrive feeling refreshed rather than fatigued.
From Chester station, Hotel Indigo Chester is just a short walk, ideally positioned on the edge of the historic city centre. The location offers the best of both worlds: immediate access to Chester’s Roman walls, medieval Rows and independent boutiques, yet a setting that feels pleasantly removed from the busiest thoroughfares.
The hotel’s design thoughtfully reflects its surroundings. Interiors incorporate subtle references to the city’s heritage, balanced with contemporary finishes and bold artwork. The overall aesthetic is warm and characterful without being overstated. Check-in was handled efficiently by a welcoming reception team, setting a professional and reassuring tone for the stay.
The guest rooms are particularly impressive. Generously proportioned and immaculately maintained, they combine comfort with personality. Rich fabrics, layered lighting and locally inspired decorative details create a sense of place, while practical elements – ample storage, well-positioned sockets and a functional workspace – ensure convenience. The bed itself was super comfortable, with high-quality linens and supportive pillows contributing to a deeply restful night’s sleep. Blackout curtains effectively eliminated outside light, enhancing the sense of retreat.
The bathroom was equally well appointed, featuring contemporary tiling, a powerful rainfall shower and premium toiletries. Fluffy towels and thoughtful lighting elevated the space further. Every detail appeared carefully curated, resulting in an environment that felt both stylish and genuinely comfortable.
The hotel’s location also makes it an excellent base for exploring the area. Chester’s charming city centre is only minutes away on foot, offering cobbled streets, historic architecture and a relaxed pace that invites unhurried exploration. The following morning, I took advantage of the convenient bus links to Chester Zoo, which proved simple and efficient – an appealing option for those wishing to broaden their itinerary beyond the city walls.
A principal highlight of the stay, however, is dining at The Forge Restaurant, located within the hotel.
Awarded two AA Rosettes for Culinary Excellence in 2023, The Forge has earned a reputation as one of Chester’s leading dining destinations. The 70-seat restaurant centres around an open kitchen, where wood and charcoal play a defining role in the cooking process. The visible flames lend a sense of theatre while reinforcing the restaurant’s commitment to elemental, flavour-driven cuisine.
Recently appointed Head Chef Neil Aitken brings with him 14 years of experience, much of it gained in Michelin-starred establishments. His career includes roles at the Simon Radley Restaurant and the Arkle Restaurant at The Chester Grosvenor, as well as time spent at the two-Michelin-starred Midsummer House in Cambridge. This background is evident in the technical assurance and clarity of flavour throughout the menu.
The Forge places strong emphasis on sustainable British produce, with meats aged on site and sourced in collaboration with Aubrey Allen, a respected third-generation butcher and supplier to the Royal Household. Cooking over Yakatori and Josper grills enhances depth and character, particularly in the restaurant’s meat-led offerings, though fish and plant-based options are equally considered.
My meal began with cured trout accompanied by smoked sheep’s curd, gherkin and chive. The dish was delicately balanced: the trout tender and clean in flavour, the smoked curd adding gentle richness, and the gherkin providing a bright, acidic counterpoint.
For the main course, I selected the bone-in sirloin with dirty mash. Cooked over flame, the steak achieved an excellent balance between charred exterior and succulent interior. The accompanying mash, enriched with pork sauce and finished with crisp onions, offered indulgence – it was recommended by my helpful server. The overall execution demonstrated both confidence and restraint.
To accompany the meal, I chose The Forge Martini – crisp, precise and expertly balanced – which complemented the robust flavours of the sirloin admirably. And a nice bottle of red was the perfect add on to take to the room after dinner also.
Returning upstairs after dinner was an understated luxury – especially given how stuffed I was! With no need to venture back into the evening air, the transition from dining table to bedroom was seamless. Another peaceful night’s sleep followed, rounding off a thoroughly restorative stay.
Hotel Indigo Chester succeeds in combining efficient travel access, thoughtfully designed accommodation and high-calibre dining within one cohesive experience. From the ease of the Avanti journey to the comfort of the rooms and the excellence of The Forge, every aspect reflects careful attention to detail. For a refined yet approachable city break in a setting rich with history, it is an address well worth noting.
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