Tag Archives: Chester

Ye Olde Cottage

Chester:

Whatpub Link

Website

A famed pub amongst real ale types, this is a traditional Victorian boozer in a side street just a short walk from the bus station. It’s lovely- traditional, cheap (under £6 for a pint and a half), and there’s a pubcat (though we didn’t see him).

When we walked in, someone from Cask Marque was doing a spot check, which they passed with flying colours, and predictably, the beer was great.

The pub is in the more vibrant end of town, with takeaways and shops probably aimed at students; it’s a nice contrast to the very turist-centric areas.

Watergates Bar (The Old Crypt)

Chester:

Whatpub Link

Website

Well, it was World Goth Day, so a pub situated in The Old Crypt seemed appropriate. It was a bit of a disappointment that it was Greene King, but as it was I was drinking lager.

The crypt has seen various uses, including a morgue. On a bright sunny day it was cool, dark, and atmospheric inside, but there’s a rooftop bar if you wanted sun.

We’d been in the nearby Victoria, but the staff there couldn’t be arsed serving us, so we went in here and found friendly staff, decent food, and great service.

The Chesire Cat

Chester:


Whatpub Entry
Website

We’d passed this pub many times, and always meant to drop in, because well, cat, plus it’s an imposing site as you prepare to turn off the A41 and head for the A55, and a good lunch stop for us coming back this time.

It’s part of the M&B Vintage Inns chain, so traditionalish inside, food-biased, but feels like an old pub (which it is, to be fair). Good service and food- not the cheapest, but not too bad either. Can’t comment on the beer as I was driving. Right next to the Shropshire Union Canal. Sensible Covid precautions, overall a nice place. There’s accommodation here if you fancy it.