Christmas can be a frantic time for many, but no one of, let’s say, ‘advanced years’ will be busier than a man who from time to time goes by the name ‘Mr Claus’. Even the hardest-working, festive-filled people deserve some ‘me-time’, and it’s no different for him. This year, the world’s jolliest person decided to pause preparations for the big day by popping into The Chester Grosvenor for some luxury and pampering.
This week, the five-star hotel, The Chester Grosvenor, welcomed a very special (instantly recognisable) guest who asked politely if he could just be referred to as “Mr Claus”. The white-haired, red-suited guest felt he needed some luxury and pampering to ensure he would be fully prepared for the hard work leading up to the ‘big day’.
Reception staff at The Chester Grosvenor, adjacent to the city’s famous Eastgate clock, checked in the mysterious ‘Mr Claus’, who said while he couldn’t accredit the hotel for his stay, he would put it on his ‘nice’ list if it met his ‘merry’ standards.
One of Mr Claus’ first wishes was to indulge in a traditional festive afternoon tea; however, thanks to his famously hearty appetite, he opted for the hotel’s ‘Gentleman’s afternoon tea’, with coronation chicken on spiced curry bread, crispy haddock bloomer and French onion tart.
With the sleigh safely parked up, Santa washed down the festive treats with a glass of Taittinger Champagne, accompanied by strawberries with clotted cream.
Delivering presents across the globe within 24 hours is a stressful endeavour, so Mr Claus was looking to unwind and, having been enticed by the hotel’s new ‘Winter Glow’ spa package, was treated to a 25-minute back, neck and shoulder massage, a 25 minute ‘Grosvenor Signature’ facial, and a 25-minute express manicure.
Also on Mr Claus’ list was a memorable festive dining experience at the hotel’s 3 AA Rosette restaurant, Arkle, where he swapped his usual diet of mince pies and milk for a refined five-course culinary experience – opting for a few carrots’ to-go for his furry friends.
Commenting on the hotel’s recent VIP visit, General Manager Steve Ogden said, “Christmas is a magical time at The Chester Grosvenor, and to have such an esteemed guest come and visit was quite the shock!
“The mysterious Mr Claus was suited and booted for the occasion and came laden with a large sack full of wrapped boxes – an unusual and heavy item for the staff to take to his room. But of course, they obliged and were on hand to make his experience as ‘merry’ as possible, as we do for all guests.
“As fleeting as his visit was, we were delighted to give back to our special guest, gifting him with the ultimate five-star festive experience. No one saw him check out; in fact, his departure coincided with what witnesses described as nine reindeer darting down the cobbled streets of Chester before ‘taking off’ – although that wasn’t something our valet parking took care of.”
Steve added, “Whether or not you turn up in a fluffy red coat and black boots, we promise to offer our guests a truly memorable experience this festive period and look forward to counting down to the ‘big day’ with everyone.”
For more information on The Chester Grosvenor’s festive offering, which also includes Christmas Party Nights, please visit www.chestergrosvenor.com/christmas.
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