| Cover Page Document | May 06, 2020 |
| Cover [Abstract] | |
| Entity Central Index Key | 0001476045 |
| Title of 12(b) Security | Common Shares of Beneficial Interest, $0.01 par value |
| Pre-commencement Issuer Tender Offer | false |
| Pre-commencement Tender Offer | false |
| Soliciting Material | false |
| Written Communications | false |
| Entity Address, Address Line One | 222 Lakeview Avenue, Suite 200 |
| Entity Incorporation, State or Country Code | MD |
| Document Type | 8-K |
| Document Period End Date | May 6, 2020 |
| Entity Registrant Name | CHATHAM LODGING TRUST |
| Entity File Number | 001-34693 |
| Entity Tax Identification Number | 27-1200777 |
| Entity Address, City or Town | West Palm Beach, |
| Entity Address, State or Province | FL |
| Entity Address, Postal Zip Code | 33401 |
| City Area Code | 561 |
| Local Phone Number | 802-4477 |
| Trading Symbol | CLDT |
| Security Exchange Name | NYSE |
| Entity Emerging Growth Company | false |
| Amendment Flag | false |
