Harrods' new H beauty store will officially open in Chester early next year.

Set to open in February 2026, the beauty hall will feature a champagne bar, blow dry bar, interactive play tables for trying products and a Harrods gift shop.

Harrods first secured permission to take over the former Debenhams on Eastgate Street at the start of this year. Following the collapse of the Debenhams franchise, the department store building was vacated three years ago.

The following year, the Martin Property Group, an Irish family-owned business, bought the property, valued at £4 million. 

H-Beauty stores have had a steady growth nationally since their launch in September 2020. A total of 70 jobs are set to be created through the Chester development, which is set to also include a champagne bar.  

H-Beauty stores have had a steady growth nationally since their launch in September 2020 (Nub News)

Plans to sell 'champagne and other high end alcohol products' were revealed in a licensing bid submitted to Cheshire West and Chester Council last month.

The application said: "The premises will be a beauty store that sells skincare, make-up and fragrance products, as well as a hair and beauty salon. 

"The on-sale of alcohol in store will be for those having hair and beauty treatments. The off-sale of alcohol is for champagne and other high end alcohol products linked with pampering."

Other H-Beauty sites, including Edinburgh, Milton Keynes and Bristol, feature champagne bars.

A description on the H-Beauty website reads: "Pause and unwind at the Harrods Champagne Bar, a space to sip, savour and celebrate.

"Enjoy patisserie crafted by Harrods chefs, signature cocktails, teas, coffees and, of course, champagne by the glass or bottle."

Initial proposals to refurbish the Eastgate Street building faced concerns (Nub News)

Initial proposals to refurbish the Eastgate Street building faced concerns regarding the 'concealment' of historic features.

Despite this, plans were given the green light, with a council report highlighting the 'clear and convincing' public benefit of the project, stating it 'outweighs' the harm relating to the heritage asset.

It added: "It is also acknowledged that there would be economic incentives to the city by hosting an international brand which could act as a retail anchor to support key economic regeneration objectives.

"The concealing of the remains of the historic ceiling features is regrettable, but in this case acceptable given the justification provided to satisfy fire safety regulations and as required to upgrade the mechanical and electrical equipment."

Other H-Beauty stores feature champagne bars (Nub News)

Since works have began, both buildings have undergone repairs, such as re-painting the render on the Georgian fronted building.

The original application, submitted to Cheshire West and Chester Council, said: "The H-Beauty stores of Harrods offer luxury Beauty products, treatments and educational workshops for skincare, make-up, fragrance and hairstyling categories."

A spokesperson for the brand previously said: "This is a significant milestone for H beauty as we continue our expansion across the UK, bringing exceptional beauty experiences to new communities.

"The positive response received shows the demand for our unique concept, and we're excited to introduce our extensive range of beauty products and services to Chester while respecting the rich heritage of the space.

"We look forward to becoming part of the local community, creating new opportunities for beauty enthusiasts to join the H beauty team."