In our review of the County Hotel in Chelmsford, we found it to be a solid choice for travelers seeking a comfortable stay in the heart of the city. The friendly staff, clean rooms, and speedy WiFi are definite pluses. Don’t miss their award-winning restaurant – it’s a treat for your taste buds!
Now, let’s talk straight: The surrounding area can get noisy, especially on weekends. If you’re a light sleeper, you might want to pack earplugs.
Also, the 3 PM check-in time might be a bit late for some early birds.
Despite these minor hiccups, this hotel is a great fit for solo adventurers, families, and folks who need accessible rooms.
It’s particularly good for those who want to be in the thick of things, with easy access to Chelmsford’s shops and attractions.
If you’re a night owl who enjoys a lively atmosphere and doesn’t mind a bit of street noise, you’ll feel right at home here.
Good To Know
- The County Hotel is located in Chelmsford, UK, and has a rating of 7.4 based on 1,374 reviews, with its staff and location receiving the highest ratings.
- The hotel offers a variety of accommodation options, including single, double, premium, suite, and apartment rooms, catering to different guest preferences.
- The on-site Samphire restaurant serves locally-sourced meals for breakfast, lunch, afternoon tea, and dinner, with a cozy atmosphere and a southern-facing terrace.
- Amenities include free WiFi, private parking, a 24-hour front desk, a business center, and a bar, as well as accommodations for solo travelers, couples, and families.
- The hotel has a focus on sustainability and accessibility, with third-party certifications and features such as accessible rooms and multilingual staff.
Hotel Overview
The County Hotel is located at 29 Rainsford Road in Chelmsford, CM1 2PZ, United Kingdom.
It has a 7.4 (Good) rating based on 1,374 reviews. The hotel’s top-rated features are its staff (8.7) and location (8.7).
Other notable ratings include cleanliness (8.0), comfort (8.1), and free WiFi (8.2).
The hotel is close to popular attractions like Chelmsford Museum, Essex County Cricket Club, and Chelmsford Cathedral.
The County Hotel offers 58 bedrooms, an award-winning restaurant, and amenities like private parking and a south-facing terrace.
Guests can take advantage of the hotel’s 24-hour front desk, luggage storage, and business center.
Accommodation Options
The County Hotel offers a variety of accommodation options to suit different guest needs. Guests can choose from 58 bedrooms, including single, double, premium, suite, and apartment options.
The hotel’s room types cater to both solo travelers and groups, with options to accommodate families and guests with accessibility requirements.
Key features of the accommodation include:
- Free WiFi throughout the property
- Accessible rooms available
- Family rooms with additional sleeping space
- Premium suites with separate living areas
- Self-catering apartments for extended stays
The hotel’s diverse range of accommodations ensures there’s an option to meet the unique needs and preferences of every guest.
Dining Experience
Award-winning dining is a highlight of the County Hotel experience. The on-site Samphire restaurant serves breakfast, lunch, afternoon tea, and dinner, with a menu featuring locally-sourced ingredients.
Guests can enjoy the restaurant’s cozy atmosphere and southern-facing terrace for alfresco dining. The hotel’s culinary team has earned accolades for their creative dishes and attentive service.
Whether looking for a hearty full English breakfast, a leisurely afternoon tea, or an elegant dinner, the County Hotel’s restaurant provides a high-quality dining experience.
Guests can also opt for room service or explore the nearby dining options within walking distance of the hotel.
Amenities and Services
Guests enjoy a variety of amenities and services during their stay at the County Hotel. The property offers free WiFi throughout, as well as private parking for those arriving by car.
In addition, the hotel features a 24-hour front desk and luggage storage for added convenience. Guests can also take advantage of the on-site business center and the cozy bar area.
The hotel’s accommodations range from single rooms to apartments, catering to the needs of solo travelers, couples, and families alike. Accessible rooms are available, and the hotel welcomes children of all ages, with cots and extra beds provided for a fee.
Guest Policies
Guests must check in between 15:00 and 22:00 and check out by 11:00.
The hotel requires a £100 damage deposit upon arrival, refundable within 7 days after check-out.
Children of any age are welcome, and cots or extra beds are available for a fee.
Pets aren’t allowed, except for service dogs.
Cancellation policies vary by accommodation type.
Guests must present photo ID and a credit card at check-in.
The property is located in a busy area, so there may be noise from functions and events.
The restaurant is closed from January 1 to 17, but bar food is available during this period.
Sustainability and Accessibility
The County Hotel has third-party sustainability certifications, highlighting its commitment to environmental responsibility.
The property also offers accessible rooms and parking for blue badge holders, ensuring an inclusive experience for all guests.
The hotel’s multilingual staff can assist visitors in English, Spanish, Italian, Polish, Portuguese, and Russian, catering to diverse language needs.
Sustainability and accessibility features include:
- Third-party sustainability certifications
- Accessible rooms available
- Parking for blue badge holders
- Multilingual staff proficient in 6 languages
Discounts and Early Check-in
Eligible guests may receive discounts based on their booking conditions at the County Hotel. These "Genius Discounts" provide savings for qualified guests, though the specific details can vary.
While early check-in isn’t guaranteed, the hotel will gladly store bags for those who arrive before the standard 3 PM check-in time. This can be helpful for those with early flights or plans in the area.
Guests should keep in mind that the hotel is located in a busy area, so there may be some noise from nearby functions and events, especially during peak seasons.
Payment and Noise Considerations
When staying at the County Hotel, guests should be aware of the payment methods accepted and the potential for noise in the area. The hotel accepts cash payments, and all guests must show photo ID and a credit card upon check-in.
Plus, the property is located in a busy area, so there may be noise from functions and events. Some key considerations include:
- The hotel’s restaurant, Samphire, is closed from January 1st to January 17th, but bar food is available during this period.
- Guests may encounter noise from the surrounding area, as the hotel is situated in a lively part of Chelmsford.
- Early check-in isn’t guaranteed, but the hotel can store guests’ bags if needed.
- Payment methods accepted include cash, and guests must present photo ID and a credit card upon arrival.
Questions About Staying Here
Can I Request a Specific Room Type or Floor?
Yes, guests can request specific room types or floors, subject to availability. The hotel aims to accommodate preferences where possible, so it’s best to inquire about the options when making a reservation.
Is There a Gym or Fitness Center On-Site?
The hotel does not have an on-site gym or fitness center. However, guests can access a nearby leisure center located within a 5-minute walk for a discounted rate.
Do You Offer Any Special Packages or Deals?
The hotel offers various deals and packages such as discounts for Genius members and early check-in, though it’s not guaranteed. They also provide luggage storage if needed during temporary restaurant closures.
What Is the Closest Public Transportation Option?
The closest public transportation option is a 5-minute walk to the Chelmsford railway station. This station provides direct train services to London Liverpool Street, taking approximately 35 minutes.
How Far Is the Hotel From the Nearest Airport?
The hotel’s nearest airport is Stansted Airport, located approximately 26 miles (42 km) away. It’s easily accessible by train, with a journey time of around 40 minutes from the airport to the nearest station.
Worth The Stay
The County Hotel in Chelmsford offers a well-rounded stay for travelers. Its convenient location, comfortable accommodations, award-winning dining, and range of amenities make it an attractive choice. Guests can enjoy the hotel’s modern facilities, traditional charm, and exceptional value, whether visiting for business or leisure. With a focus on sustainability and accessibility, the County Hotel caters to the needs of diverse travelers, ensuring a memorable experience in the heart of Chelmsford.