ODDFELLOWS, the £3.25m hotel/restaurant/private members lounge, is set to open in Chester’s Lower Bridge Street in April.

The former Navy Club building bought by the three directors of Lister Carter Associates (Welland Lister, Gary Carter and Ken Roscoe) is being converted into a flight of fancy that draws on film, fashion, art, literature, food, drink and business.

Oddfellows will be offering bespoke hospitality at the 17th century Grade II listed former Georgian mansion with both open plan and private rooms.

On the top floor the old servants’ quarters have been converted into four bespoke bedrooms including a master suite.

The basement wine vaults, manned by sommelier James Wiseman, will serve the second and third floor hub of Oddfellows which offers a champagne bar, a New York-style brasserie, dining rooms, a tea room and private members’ lounge.

The members’ lounge is one of a set of themed rooms and spaces – bedouin style dining tents, a moat and open garden.

Ultimately, the masterplan for Oddfellows is to strike a balance between tourist pampering, corporate hospitality and families.

More than 130 private members have signed up to Oddfellows.

Director Isabel Grey: “We are customer led and family oriented until 6pm, and then Oddfellows changes into a grown up playground.”

Directors have invited special guests to a VIP and private members launch party in April.