An Honest, In-Depth Review of The Cheshire, St. Louis

Location

The address of the Cheshire is 6300 Clayton Rd, St. Louis, MO, The Cheshire stands out as a unique and inviting boutique hotel, renowned for its proximity to the city’s cultural heart. A stone’s throw away from the verdant expanses of Forest Park, guests find themselves within an effortless stroll to local treasures such as the Art Museum and the historic outdoor theatre, The Muny. This prime location isn’t just limited to foot traffic; The Cheshire is conveniently situated near public transportation routes, making it supremely accessible for those looking to explore further afield or seeking seamless travel options.

For visitors eager to delve into the wonders of St. Louis, there’s no better springboard than the stately yet approachable confines of The Cheshire. This prime siting distinctly positions The Cheshire not only as a gateway to the city’s most loved attractions but also as a favorable alternative to nearby hotels, offering a non-corporate, chain hotel experience with an air of bespoke charm. Whether you’re looking to absorb the local culture or simply enjoy a leisurely walk in the park, The Cheshire invites exploration by offering the perfect start to any adventure in St. Louis.

I will say while the hotel was located near a bus stop, I didn’t realize how spread out St. Louis is. It took us about an hour to get from the hotel to the Gateway Arch in downtown. So be aware of that if you’re coming to visit. If I knew this, I probably would have been more open to renting a car during our visit. However, it was nice that there were a few public transportation stops within walking distance that we could get around easily.

Checking In

Checking in at The Cheshire was a delightful experience, marked by a smooth process and the kind demeanor of the staff. Despite arriving late in the evening, I was warmly greeted by the front desk staff, who made the check-in process quick and efficient, allowing me to settle into my room without any hassle. Their friendly attitude and attentiveness instantly made me feel welcomed, setting a positive tone for my stay. It was clear that the staff was not only professional but also genuinely invested in ensuring that each guest felt comfortable and valued, no matter the hour of arrival.

A 24/7 station with refreshing ice water and fresh fruit that welcomed guests anytime.

Cheshire Parking & Valet

Parking at The Cheshire in St. Louis is definitely something worth considering, especially as a guest looking forward to exploring the area. From my experience, it’s really important for family-friendly hotels like The Cheshire to offer convenient parking, and this boutique hotel didn’t disappoint. Although they do offer parking facilities, I strongly suggest giving them a call beforehand to get all the specifics on parking fees and availability. We didn’t have a car so I didn’t need the lot or valet.

The location of the hotel is super handy since it’s close to a bunch of attractions, including museums and the beautiful Forest Park. This definitely could affect your parking needs because you might be coming and going more than you think!

We did see the sign for the valet parking available, but we didn’t have a car. Details on valet service aren’t specified on their website, so it’s another thing you’ll want to ask about when you call.

History of The Cheshire

When I stepped into the historical confines of The Cheshire, I couldn’t help but feel transported back to the 1920s. Its storied walls and timeless architecture echo a grand past, one that has recently been polished through thoughtful renovations. Despite its modern touches, the hotel retains an irreplaceable historic charm that sets it apart from the nearby hotels.

A standout feature of The Cheshire is its striking British pub ambiance. Far removed from the conventional vibes of larger chain hotels, this boutique hotel breathes uniqueness and character.

Everywhere you looked, you’d find something new to admire – from the detail in the wood to the unique artwork. I also loved all of the colored glass for windows throughout the hotel!

The Cheshire is a beautiful piece of history that’s been lovingly maintained to offer a distinctive, plush sanctuary amid St. Louis’s heartbeat. And for someone like me, who appreciates both the historical touch and the comforts of today, The Cheshire is a perfect fit.

British Décor

As soon as I walked into The Cheshire in St. Louis, I was transported from the American Midwest straight to an elegant British Inn. When you walk in the front door (even before you get to the lobby) there is a London-style phone booth (with an ATM inside) but it’s a nice welcome!

I’ve visited quite a few hotels, but none with such a tasteful British-themed decor. With each room named after a renowned British author or poet, I felt like I was stepping into a novel. It’s not just a gimmick; the literary atmosphere is palpable, contributing to the whole experience.

The decor, with its cozy fireplaces dotted throughout, added to the warmth of the ambiance, especially on chilly days. It was like a scene plucked straight out of a British countryside establishment. The quirky charm didn’t end there; the rooms and common areas had an array of design elements that were distinctly non-corporate, a refreshing departure from the usual hotel experience.

It’s clear that The Cheshire has carved out its own niche in St. Louis’s hospitality scene. It isn’t just a place to stay; it’s a place that stays with you, creating memories with its unique British flair. Whether you’re a book lover or someone looking for a different hotel vibe, The Cheshire’s decor is sure to impress and make your stay memorable.

Our Room

When I opened the door to the Oscar Wilde’s Salome Signature Suite, I was delighted by the vast space that greeted us. It was the kind of room that beckoned you to unwind and stretch out after a long day of exploring. The addition of a chaise lounge, cozy couch, and inviting reading chair provided no shortage of spots to relax in comfort. Elegant and thoughtfully arranged, the suite truly encapsulated the essence of spacious luxury. Here, surrounded by tasteful decor and literary charm, I found a serene retreat in the heart of St. Louis.

The Bed

A great night’s sleep is a cornerstone of any hotel stay, and The Cheshire doesn’t fall short in this department. The beds here are simply divine. As someone who has experienced more than my fair share of hotel mattresses, I can confidently say that the comfort provided here contributes greatly to a restful night. The superior quality of the beds, paired with the charming themes of the uniquely styled rooms, made the evenings as enjoyable as the days – a true testament to The Cheshire’s understanding of a guest’s need for relaxation and rejuvenation.

Air Conditioning

If you’re visiting during a milder month, it’s nice to know that the windows of the hotel rooms do open. I love fresh air and it’s something you don’t get enough of in hotel rooms. Of course, when we were visiting St. Louis, it was 85 degrees every day so we needed the air conditioning.

During the night on Saturday, it seemed to have stopped working. In the morning we talked to the front desk and maintenance came up and reset it (I’m not exactly sure what they did honestly) but about ten minutes later it was working. Props to them for a quick and effective fix!

Mini Fridge & Coffee Bar

Every room has a mini fridge and in-room small coffee bar. It is a nice way to keep water bottles nice and cool for the day of exploring. Tea & coffee in the room means that I can wake up and relax at my own pace without having to go downstairs.

Storage

The Cheshire Inn thoughtfully provides several cozy sitting areas throughout the property, making it a breeze to find a quiet corner to relax or catch up on reading. Within our suite, the ambiance remained quiet and snug, epitomizing comfort.

We had a dresser and a closet so we had plenty of room to unpack. There was also a nightstand on each side of the bed to put stuff. There was also plenty of room in the bathroom for my make up bag, toiletry bag, and hair straightener.

The Bathroom

I must mention that the bathroom door had a translucent glass insert, which gave a soft glow at night – a feature that can be both a pro and a con, depending on your sleeping preferences. For me, with my trusty sleep mask, it was a non-issue, and Spencer is a heavy sleeper. The placement of the light switch was a quirky find, tucked behind the towels but it wasn’t a bother, just a curious detail. The shower itself deserves a shoutout for its generous size – a spacious area that provided both comfort and freedom of movement as part of the daily routine.

Water Pressure

And speaking of showers, I was impressed by the water pressure; it was robust and never wavered, allowing for a steamy, sauna-like experience – a personal preference that I find especially comforting.

Fox & Hounds

Tucked next to the hotel’s lobby, Fox & Hounds Tavern is a gem within The Cheshire. Here, the menu brims with scrumptious small plates such as the savory Bristol Lamb Sliders and the classic Coventry Fish & Chips. Don’t forget to explore their drink options, which include a full bar and some truly refreshing cocktails. It’s a testament to their commitment to high-quality food that I found myself thoroughly enjoying the pulled pork cheese fries amidst the cozy atmosphere of the tavern. Look, I know it’s not the “English style food” but I was also in St. Louis, so pulled pork it was! I have no regrets!

Basso

Descending into Basso, The Cheshire’s basement gastro pub, you’re greeted by the comforting aroma of wood-fired pizzas. The setting here feels distinct from the tavern upstairs, with an ambiance characterized by the warmth of the wood fire, so take pleasure in the sweet melodies of Italian-inspired cuisine with an inventive twist. If you go for happy hour, you’ll be treated to not only great drink specials but there may be a discount for hotel guests. Appetizers like the Truffle Fries with homemade ketchup and garlic aioli came highly recommended. Basso strikes a fine balance between the traditional and the contemporary, providing a dining experience that’s both familiar and novel.

Overall Experience at The Cheshire

In summing up our time at The Cheshire in St. Louis, I must say that our expectations were met and even surpassed in many respects. This boutique hotel’s proximity to Forest Park provided a stunning backdrop and ample recreational opportunities, enhancing the overall appeal of our stay. Our room was not only spacious but exuded a unique charm that’s hard to find. The staff, from the desk to the maintenance crew, consistently demonstrated a level of customer service that clearly reflected their training.

My final verdict? The Cheshire is a beautiful, family-friendly hotel that delivers a 4-Star experience. Between the awesome breakfast and pleasant service, we absolutely enjoyed our stay and would heartily recommend this lovely themed hotel to other travelers looking for a delightful getaway in the heart of St. Louis.