23 Mar 2026
IHG Hotels & Resorts unveils the new Hotel Indigo Gloucester – The Forum
Hotel Indigo Gloucester - The Forum, a new design-led boutique hotel, will officially open its doors on Tuesday 24th March 2026 in the vibrant city of Gloucester. The architect-designed 4-storey building is located within the city's award-winning urban renewal development – The Forum. Unveiling Crimson Spire, bringing a first-of-its-kind rooftop bar experience to Gloucester, where panoramic views stretch across the skyline, framed by the stunning Gloucester Cathedral, from where the bar takes its name.
Gloucester's unique heritage is seen throughout the hotel's interior, with curated designs on each floor that take inspiration from three distinctive narratives.
Paying tribute to the city's rich tailoring and craft roots and being inspired by the neighbourhood, the hotel draws inspiration from dressmaking and traditional handicrafts, buttons, clothes hooks, and metal accents used as both functional and sculptural features that reference the tools of a tailor's workspace. Across the 29 rooms and suites there are nods to Gloucester's historic pin-making industry, with bedside lights designed as oversized pins, a reference to the tradition of 'pin money'. A palette of pink hues and rich velvet headboards reflect bespoke garments and textiles. Hints of Beatrix Potter's classic story 'The Tailor of Gloucester' can be seen through playful mice, a story that was inspired by the author's trip to the city of Gloucester in 1894.
Gloucester's historic docks, which once supported global trade as the UK's most inland port, inspire designs, patterns and shapes, with tall ships and boats giving a nod to the maritime tradition. Engineering history is also reflected in decorative cogs and metalwork motifs. The colours draw on dark shades of water and the strength of metal with tones of moody greys and bottle green.
Honouring Gloucester's rich Roman history, subtle cues are woven through layered design, referencing the city's architecture from the cathedral to local landmarks, which can be seen across fabrics, mosaics and within finishes. The city stands as a historic cornerstone of British aviation, alongside a strong motorcycle legacy through its ties to the Cotton Motorcycle Company and its long-celebrated tradition of cheese-rolling. Small details throughout the hotel tell a story that makes visitors feel connected to the character and culture of the city of Gloucester.
Nadia Fakhredin, General Manager of Hotel Indigo Gloucester – The Forum, said: “We are thrilled to open the doors and welcome guests to Hotel Indigo Gloucester – The Forum, and we are excited to showcase the new neighbourhood hotel to residents and visitors to the city. Our team have worked hard to create an experience which enhances Gloucester's already rich tapestry of culture and heritage, and we look forward to sharing this with every guest who walks through our doors.”
Councillor Jeremy Hilton, leader of Gloucester City Council, said: “I am delighted that Hotel Indigo has taken inspiration from our unique and beautiful city, which rightly deserves to be celebrated. This will be our first boutique hotel, and it will be a catalyst for change in terms of what we can offer the thousands of visitors who come to Gloucester. It will mean that Gloucester is not just a day trip but an overnight destination with a quality hotel right next to transport links. Along with The Forum development, it will attract more people to the city, boosting the local economy and providing jobs.”
The 129 rooms and suites shine with bold colours and contemporary designs interwoven with standout features reflecting Gloucester's rich industrial heritage. Each floor has timeless appeal and a variety of room options, offering guests little luxuries with Nespresso coffee machines, quality bed linen, clothes steamers and natural amenities by Biology to enjoy inside the refreshing rainfall showers.
Crimson Spire, the retro-chic rooftop bar, is a light-filled open space which feels both cosmopolitan and intimate. From afternoon catch-ups with refined small plates to evening gatherings with the bar's signature cocktails and carefully curated wine lists, all designed to spark conversation. The rooftop bar is the perfect spot to unwind, connect, and celebrate, experiencing the city from a new perspective.
For refined entertaining, the double glass-fronted private event space, The Bridge, is a contemporary beacon spanning Cathedral Walk. The elevated space is the ultimate location for parties, celebrations and get-togethers, with Insta-worthy cityscape views.
The hotel also has a ground-floor all-day bistro, West Window, with the name inspired by the cathedral's Great East Window. Offering the perfect blend of relaxed dining with a neighbourhood restaurant feel, it's a must-visit eatery and a feel-good space serving fresh, wholesome food made with integrity.
On the ground floor, guests and locals will find Terraé, opening on Wednesday, 25th March. More than a cafe, Terraé, is a refined and relaxed hub which faces the adjacent square. With a central counter offering great-tasting coffee by Change Please Coffee, a coffee brand which donates 100% of its profits to help people who are experiencing homelessness in the UK & Ireland. The café offers breakfast and seasonal plates; it's a place to begin your morning, meet for lunch or take a pause at any time of day.
Peter Langly-Smith, managing director at Reef + Partners, said, 'The opening of Hotel Indigo adds a new dimension to The Forum, creating a real destination that showcases Gloucester's identity. “With the hotel, its rooftop bar and event space, alongside the impressive living wall, public open space, and residential apartments, The Forum continues to transform the city centre far beyond its commercial offering.”
The complete Hotel Indigo experience, from the local ingredients on the menus to the interior influences and features, has been thoughtfully crafted to celebrate the tastes and traditions of the neighbourhood and to bring together people who want to engage their senses and feel part of a rooted local community.
The city's newest hotel is ideally placed for both business and leisure travellers, connecting directly to the adjacent transport hub, and is the perfect location to discover the city on foot or venture further into the stunning Cotswolds countryside.
Hotel Indigo is part of IHG Hotels & Resorts' luxury and lifestyle portfolio and has over 180 hotels worldwide.
ENDS
Hotel Indigo Gloucester – The Forum, 4 Cathedral Walk, Gloucester, GL1 1SZ
Please visit Hotel Indigo Gloucester – The Forum website
High-resolution images can be downloaded here:
For further PR information please contact Chloe@encorepr.co.uk
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