Old Harkers Arms

Address: 1 Russell Street, Chester, Cheshire CH3 5AL
Telephone: 01244 344525

Popular canalside pub a few hundred yards towards the city centre from the station – look for the Siam Thai restaurant on the canal bridge on City Road and it’s underneath. Careful as you go down the steps by the canal though if it’s dark.

Heard this pub was good from a friend who had stayed in Chester recently and wanted to try it myself. However, on my initial visit the pub was so busy that I struggled to get near the bar in the limited time I had. Fortunately a second visit along with a booked table in the main area allowed me to enjoy what this pub has to offer.

Most of this large pub consists of tables for drinkers, but food can be ordered at them too. There is also a small dining area at the left-hand end of the bar – early booking is usually essential if you want to eat in that area.

The pub is lively with a friendly atmosphere and a good mix of people.

On the bar there are many hand pumps – offering some local choices as well as beers from further afield. There was even a Dark Star beer present on my last visit. The beer prices are at the more expensive end, but the quality cannot be faulted.

Food is available most of the time from a menu with a good selection. The meal I had tasted excellent and the staff were very attentive.

Definitely one of the better pubs in Chester.

• Old Harkers Arms website

Last visited: February 2013

Good Beer, Good Pubs rating:

Other Pubs in the Chester Area

• Albion Inn
• Mill Hotel Real Ale Bar
• Oddfellows Arms
• Old Custom House Inn
• Telford’s Warehouse
• Waiting Room at The Queen Hotel

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