Oddfellows
20 Lower Bridge Street, Chester, United Kingdom, CH1 1RS
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#7 of 20
expert-rated hotels in Chester- Recommended for:
- Culture vultures, Foodies, Singles, Nightlife, Shopping
Expert review of Oddfellows
Quirky style and a party atmosphere, this is one of my favourite haunts in Chester.
Four of the most charming and characterful rooms are tucked up into the original servants’ quarters of this imposing city centre building (which also houses two restaurants and a couple of bars under the Oddfellows umbrella). The former “Oddfellows” lodge (it’s an old tradesmen’s society) has been transformed by the interior-decorator owners, and eccentric Alice-in-Wonderland-style features are everywhere. I just love it. The rates have dropped significantly recently and, as long as you don’t mind veering away from all the traditional – some might say boring - hotel features, you can bag yourself a reasonable, and more importantly fun, stay in Chester.
Be aware though, the venue has an entertainment licence till 2am at the weekend. If you’re a non-party animal and a light sleeper, Oddfellows might not be the spot for you.
Location:
Within the city walls, Oddfellows occupies a prime spot on one of the main non-pedestrianised streets. One free parking spot per room is a real bonus in this prime location.
Bedrooms:
The four rooms offer similar theatrical style, but quite different layouts and unique features. Original oak beams and quirkiness are guaranteed. Room 1’s main selling points are the two free-standing roll top baths, sitting parallel in the very open-plan bathroom. The toilet is mercifully tucked away, but the huge glass and slate shower and the baths are out in the open – if you don’t know your partner well, you soon will. It’s the biggest room on offer. Room 2 offers a large bed; cool, mirrored, antique trunk-style bedside “tables”, a massive twin-headed shower unit and a toilet in a cupboard, I kid you not. The bathroom is around a corner, rather than behind a door. There’s no full-length wardrobe, which could be a bit of a pain. Room 3 is similar in style and size to 2, though you’ve got more in the way of a traditionally separate bathroom. Room 4 is the most comparable to a “typical” hotel room, with a bathroom stashed firmly behind a solid door (featuring a free-standing roll top bath under a skylight). I adore the black rabbit lamp on the silver bed-side table; yet another peculiar but enchanting slice of eccentric decor.
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Public areas:
These are more the lounges attached to the bars than public areas, but the same trail of funky furnishings can be found throughout. The second floor lounge bar and balcony, formerly open only to private members, are particularly inviting to flop out in. Do be aware though, they get busy in the evening.
Eating and drinking:
There’s the main restaurant on the first floor (see my restaurant recommendations, to follow) and the pantry on street level; you needn’t step out to find a really decent dining experience. A Continental Breakfast is served to your room between 7am and 9am for £9.50, or take the Full English option for a couple of pounds more, between 9am and 11am in the pantry.
Service:
Always smiley and happy to see guests.
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Who stays there:
Party-goers, lovers of interior decor, glamorous race-goers. During the week, when the venue is quieter, couples on city breaks book here.
Price advice:
The rates have dipped recently, so take advantage. Breakfast is extra, but free parking gets a big thumbs-up from me.
Pros:
Loveable eccentric decor
City centre location
Free parking
Original features
Cons:
Some quirks can be off-putting
The noise at weekends
More information on Oddfellows:
- Price from:
- Type:
- Hotel
- Address:
- 20 Lower Bridge Street, Chester, United Kingdom, CH1 1RS
- Neighbourhood:
- City Centre
