The Cavern of the Curious Gnome, Chester
A cozy upstairs bar in Chester famed for its curated Belgian ales, continental lagers, and British craft beers paired with classic comfort food.
Nestled above Paysan on Bridge Street in Chester, The Cavern of the Curious Gnome is a unique bar specializing in an extensive range of Belgian ales, German lagers, and UK craft beers. This cozy upstairs venue offers a warm, inviting atmosphere with a focus on quality brews, complemented by cheeseboards, wines, and classic dishes like chicken and frites served daily from noon. It’s a must-visit for beer aficionados seeking a distinctive drinking experience in Chester.
A brief summary to The Cavern of the Curious Gnome
- East, above Paysan, 61 Bridge St, Chester, CH1 1NW, GB
- +441244641704
- Visit website
- Duration: 1 to 3 hours
- Mid ranged
-
Indoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
- Monday 12 pm-11 pm
- Tuesday 12 pm-11 pm
- Wednesday 12 pm-11 pm
- Thursday 12 pm-11 pm
- Friday 12 pm-11 pm
- Saturday 12 pm-11 pm
- Sunday 12 pm-10 pm
Local tips
- Try the chicken and frites, available every day from noon, for a classic pairing with the Belgian beers.
- Visit during weekday evenings for a quieter atmosphere and attentive service.
- Explore the diverse keg range, focusing on Belgian ales and German lagers for a true continental experience.
- Enjoy the cheeseboards alongside your drinks for a perfect snack or light meal.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
The Cavern of the Curious Gnome location weather suitability
-
Any Weather
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Rain / Wet Weather
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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about The Cavern of the Curious Gnome
A Hidden Gem Above Chester’s Bridge Street
The Cavern of the Curious Gnome is tucked away above the wine bar Paysan on 61 Bridge Street Row East, offering a somewhat secretive yet welcoming retreat for beer lovers. Its location above street level creates an intimate and cozy setting, perfect for those looking to escape the bustle of Chester’s historic city center. The venue’s interior exudes a relaxed charm, with rustic touches that complement its focus on traditional and craft beers.A Belgian Beer Haven with Continental Flair
This bar is renowned for its diverse selection of Belgian beers, featuring a wide array of ales that range from rich, malty brews to crisp, refreshing varieties. Alongside Belgian classics, the Cavern also offers German lagers and a curated selection of British craft ales, making it a versatile spot for enthusiasts of continental and local brewing traditions alike. The keg range is thoughtfully chosen to highlight quality and variety, appealing to both connoisseurs and casual drinkers.Complementary Food and Drink Offerings
Beyond its impressive beer list, The Cavern of the Curious Gnome serves wines and cheeseboards, perfect for pairing with its drinks. A staple menu item is the chicken and frites, available daily from noon, providing a satisfying meal that complements the bar’s beverage offerings. This combination of hearty food and fine drinks creates a well-rounded experience for visitors.Atmosphere and Service
The atmosphere is intimate and inviting, with polite and knowledgeable staff who enhance the overall experience. The bar’s layout encourages relaxed socializing, making it suitable for both groups and solo visitors. Its unique charm lies in the blend of a hidden location and a well-curated drink selection, which together create a memorable setting distinctive from typical city center pubs.Operating Hours and Accessibility
Open daily from noon, The Cavern closes at 11 pm on weekdays and Saturdays, with slightly earlier closing at 10 pm on Sundays. This schedule allows ample opportunity for afternoon or evening visits. Its central Chester location makes it accessible by various transport modes, though the upstairs setting may present some access considerations.A Destination for Beer Enthusiasts
Whether you are seeking to explore Belgian ales, enjoy German lagers, or sample British craft beers, The Cavern of the Curious Gnome offers a distinctive experience. Its combination of a unique location, quality drinks, and welcoming atmosphere make it a standout venue in Chester’s vibrant bar scene.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Chester Cross
0.1 km
Medieval heart of Chester where Roman streets meet Tudor architecture and civic tradition.
Crypt Chambers
0.2 km
Medieval crypt meets Victorian Gothic Revival in Chester's most architecturally significant commercial building.
Roman South East Corner Tower
0.2 km
Explore the enduring Roman South East Corner Tower, a sentinel of Chester’s ancient fortress and a testament to Roman military engineering.
Eastgate Clock
0.2 km
A Victorian clock atop a Roman gateway, Eastgate Clock is Chester’s most iconic meeting point and one of England’s most photographed timepieces.
Chester War Memorial
0.3 km
A solemn neo-medieval tribute to fallen soldiers, unveiled in 1922 within Chester Cathedral's historic grounds.
Wishing Steps
0.3 km
Historic stone steps at Chester’s medieval walls where wishes come true through a charming local tradition.
Chester Visitor Information Centre
0.3 km
Explore Chester's rich history and vibrant culture at the Visitor Information Centre, your essential resource for navigating this historic city.
Chester Town Hall
0.3 km
A stunning Victorian Gothic Revival landmark, Chester Town Hall is the historic heart of Chester’s civic and cultural life.
Ancient Roman Columns, Chester
0.4 km
Roman column bases marking Chester's legacy as a major legionary fortress and potential capital of Britannia.
Bridge Gate and Old Dee Bridge
0.4 km
Historic medieval gateway and ancient stone bridge spanning the scenic tidal River Dee in Chester’s charming riverside setting.
Churchill House
0.5 km
A vibrant academic landmark on Chester’s Queen’s Park campus, blending historic charm with modern learning and scenic riverside views.
Bridge Of Sighs
0.6 km
A haunting 1793 stone bridge where condemned prisoners took their final steps before execution—Chester's most poignant historical crossing.
Pemberton's Parlour
0.6 km
Explore Pemberton's Parlour, a striking red sandstone tower on Chester’s historic city walls, revealing centuries of medieval and Victorian heritage.
Bonewaldesthorne's Tower
0.7 km
Medieval gatehouse controlling Chester's western defenses, standing sentinel on Britain's most complete city walls.
Leadworks Lane Park
0.8 km
Explore the serene beauty of Leadworks Lane Park in Chester, a perfect spot for relaxation, picnics, and enjoying nature’s tranquility amidst the city.
Unmissable attractions to see
Deva Roman Experience
0.1 km
Immerse yourself in Chester's Roman past with interactive exhibits, live actors, and authentic ruins beneath the city streets.
The Antiques Shop
0.2 km
Explore centuries of British history and craftsmanship in a rare medieval town house filled with genuine antiques in Chester’s historic Rows.
Ye Olde King's Head Hotel, Chester
0.2 km
Historic Tudor inn in Chester famed for its rich heritage, cozy charm, and renowned paranormal activity with immersive ghost-hunting experiences.
Eastgate St
0.2 km
Walk through history on Eastgate Street, Chester’s vibrant Roman-rooted street famed for its medieval Rows and captivating local legends.
The Nine Houses
0.2 km
Discover Chester’s rare 17th-century almshouses—six beautifully restored timber-framed cottages steeped in history and architectural charm.
Grosvenor Shopping Centre
0.2 km
Chester's premier shopping destination blending 70 diverse retailers with historic charm and modern convenience.
Chester History & Heritage
0.2 km
Discover Chester’s rich history and heritage through Roman artifacts, period rooms, and vibrant exhibitions at the Grosvenor Museum.
The Grosvenor Museum
0.2 km
Explore Chester’s rich heritage from Roman relics to period homes in this free-entry Victorian museum with diverse exhibits and community events.
Chester Roman Gardens
0.2 km
Explore Chester’s serene Roman Gardens, where ancient ruins blend with lush greenery alongside historic city walls.
Roman Strongroom
0.3 km
Explore Chester’s Roman Strongroom, a free historic site revealing ancient Roman military architecture and the city’s rich heritage.
Chester Roman Amphitheatre
0.3 km
Explore Britain’s largest Roman amphitheatre, a remarkable open-air archaeological site revealing Chester’s rich Roman heritage and ancient spectacles.
Cheshire Military Museum
0.3 km
Explore centuries of Cheshire soldiers’ history through immersive exhibits and archives in the heart of Chester Castle.
Old Palace Chester
0.3 km
Historic Georgian palace with riverside elegance, 23 bedrooms, and exclusive-use sophistication for unforgettable celebrations.
Garden of the Honourable Cheshire Regiment
0.3 km
A tranquil memorial garden in Chester Cathedral’s precincts honoring the valor and sacrifice of the Cheshire Regiment’s soldiers.
Bear & Billet
0.3 km
Historic 17th-century Chester gastropub blending Tudor charm with hearty British fare and a lively, dog-friendly atmosphere.
Essential places to dine
Carbonara at No 49
0.0 km
Experience authentic Roman Italian flavors in Chester’s historic Bridge Street setting, blending tradition, warmth, and local produce.
Da Noi Chester
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Experience authentic Piedmontese Italian cuisine with exquisite wine pairings in Chester’s intimate Michelin-recognized Da Noi.
Chef's Table
0.1 km
Discover inventive modern British cuisine in a bright, welcoming setting at Chef's Table, Chester’s acclaimed seasonal dining destination.
Côte Chester
0.1 km
A stylish French brasserie in Chester’s city centre offering classic dishes, diverse menus, and a welcoming atmosphere for all occasions.
Urbano 32
0.1 km
Authentic sourdough pizzas from a wood-fired clay oven in the heart of Chester, served in a stylish urban-chic pizzeria and bar.
Six One Six Restaurant & Bar
0.1 km
A stylish Chester restaurant blending historic inspiration with modern elegance, exceptional food, and a vibrant social scene.
Ruan Orchid
0.1 km
Experience authentic Thai cuisine with a vibrant atmosphere and welcoming service in the heart of Chester’s historic center.
Opera Restaurant Bar & Grill
0.1 km
Grand Grade II listed grill with live music, a rooftop terrace, and an internationally inspired steakhouse menu in the heart of Chester.
Piccolino Chester
0.1 km
Stylish Italian dining with vibrant prosecco bar and alfresco terrace in Chester’s lively city centre.
Moules a go-go Bar & Bistro
0.1 km
Chester’s vibrant bistro specializing in fresh Anglesey mussels, offering a lively atmosphere and diverse seafood dishes since 1999.
Artezzan Restaurant & Bar
0.1 km
Vibrant Mediterranean dining with fresh, honest flavors and handcrafted drinks in Chester’s lively Pepper Street venue.
The Secret Garden Restaurant
0.1 km
Discover The Secret Garden at Oddfellows, a charming spot in Chester blending modern British cuisine with a unique garden ambiance.
La Fattoria
0.1 km
Experience vibrant Southern Italian dining with authentic flavors, generous portions, and a lively atmosphere in the heart of Chester.
Pars Kahve
0.1 km
Experience authentic Turkish cuisine and warm hospitality in the heart of Chester’s historic Watergate Street.
Shrub
0.2 km
Innovative vegan dining with Mediterranean and East Asian flair in Chester’s iconic Eastgate Row, featuring creative cocktails and a relaxed urban pastoral vibe.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Ancient World
0.0 km
Discover unique antiques and curiosities steeped in history at Ancient World, Chester’s charming vintage treasure shop on Bridge Street.
Harley’s Vintage Boutique
0.0 km
Discover timeless vintage fashion and expert styling in Chester’s charming Harley’s Vintage Boutique on Bridge Street Row.
Styled Boutique
0.1 km
A warm, independent women’s boutique in Chester’s historic centre, offering easy-to-wear fashion and a personal, friendly shopping experience.
Chester Boutique
0.1 km
Discover curated contemporary fashion in Chester’s vibrant Bridge Street boutique, blending style with historic charm.
Suzie K
0.1 km
Discover Chester’s magical alternative gift shop blending unique fashion, crystals, and holistic services in a warm, welcoming atmosphere.
Rock Bottom / Florence & Company
0.1 km
Chester’s vibrant ladies' boutique offering fresh fashion, unique jewelry, and stylish scarves in a welcoming city center setting.
Jigsaw
0.1 km
Upscale women's fashion boutique blending timeless style with Chester’s historic charm on Bridge Street.
NICHOLS
0.1 km
Discover Nichols, Chester’s quirky boutique blending unique ladies’ fashion with antique treasures in a charming historic setting.
Menkind
0.1 km
Discover quirky gifts, gadgets, and tech accessories for men and boys in the heart of Chester’s historic shopping district.
Harriet & Dee
0.2 km
Charming boutique gift and baby shop in Chester’s historic Watergate Street, known for unique presents and friendly service.
Fifi Bambu
0.2 km
Discover the magic of Chester’s Watergate Street through Fifi Bambu, a charming gift shop filled with unique treasures and enchanting finds.
Elephant
0.2 km
Explore Chester's Elephant Gift Shop for unique, handcrafted gifts that celebrate local artistry and charm.
Søstrene Grene
0.2 km
Discover Scandinavian-inspired home décor, crafts, and gifts at Søstrene Grene Chester, a charming and affordable treasure trove in the city center.
Gift Company CHESTER
0.2 km
Discover eclectic gifts and stylish homewares in Chester’s charming Grosvenor Precinct at Gift Company Chester.
Reminis
0.2 km
Explore Chester's hidden gem, Reminis Gift Shop, for unique souvenirs and local artisan treasures that capture the essence of your visit.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
The Cavern of the Curious Gnome
0.0 km
A cozy upstairs bar in Chester famed for its curated Belgian ales, continental lagers, and British craft beers paired with classic comfort food.
Paysan
0.0 km
Chester’s cozy wine bar with 200+ wines downstairs and a vibrant beer cellar upstairs, perfect for relaxed evenings and casual gatherings.
Slug & Lettuce - Chester
0.0 km
Lively cocktail bar and restaurant on Chester’s historic Bridge Street, blending vibrant social vibes with diverse food and drink offerings.
Commonhall Street Social
0.1 km
A cozy, dog-friendly bar with craft beers, delicious food, and a lively outdoor terrace in the heart of Chester’s city centre.
The Church Chester Bar & Restaurant
0.1 km
Historic church turned vibrant bar and restaurant in Chester, blending classic charm with modern dining and lively atmosphere.
All Bar One Chester
0.1 km
Stylish wine bar in Chester’s city center offering expertly crafted drinks and a vibrant social atmosphere.
Watergates Bar
0.2 km
Historic medieval crypt pub in Chester city centre with vaulted ceilings, classic British fare, real ales, and a lively yet family-friendly vibe.
Palm Cocktail Bar & Eatery
0.2 km
Chester’s vibrant cocktail bar with expertly crafted drinks, lively atmosphere, and friendly service on historic Watergate Street.
Kings Head Chester
0.2 km
Historic 17th-century pub in Chester with classic British fare, a haunted reputation, and a cosy, welcoming atmosphere.
Havana Chester
0.2 km
Lively Cuban-inspired bar and restaurant on Chester’s historic Watergate Street, offering vibrant music, tapas, and creative cocktails.
Red Door
0.2 km
Vibrant late-night cocktail bar and restaurant in Chester’s city center, known for creative drinks and lively music.
Music Hall Tap
0.2 km
Chester’s lively craft beer pub with rustic charm, live sports, and a vibrant social scene in the heart of the city.
Metronome Jazz Bar
0.2 km
Chester’s intimate jazz bar with live piano, vinyl classics, and a warm, candlelit atmosphere for a perfect night out.
Prohibition
0.2 km
Step into Chester’s Prohibition for expertly crafted cocktails and a vibrant 1920s speakeasy vibe in a cozy, intimate setting.
BarLounge - Chester
0.3 km
Chester’s premier lounge bar blending refined comfort food with creative cocktails in a stylish, welcoming setting.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Rosies - Chester
0.2 km
Experience Chester’s vibrant nightlife at Rosies, a multiroom club with rooftop terrace, VIP lounges, and cutting-edge sound over three lively floors.
BONOBO Bar & Canteen
0.2 km
A vibrant two-floor bar and canteen in Chester blending American eats, cocktails, video games, and lively music for a unique nightlife experience.
Chester City Club
0.2 km
Experience Chester’s vibrant nightlife at City Club, where modern beats meet historic charm in the heart of St Peters Churchyard.
Cruise
0.2 km
A multi-floor nightclub in Chester offering vibrant music, premium drinks, and lively nightlife across seven bars.
The Live Rooms
1.0 km
Discover Chester's vibrant nightlife at The Live Rooms, where live music, comedy, and unforgettable experiences await.
Mandy & Graham’s
2.6 km
Experience Chester’s vibrant nightlife at Mandy & Graham’s, where pulsating beats and lively crowds create unforgettable party nights.
Ewloe Social and Community Club Ltd
11.0 km
Experience the heart of Deeside at Ewloe Social and Community Club, where fun, games, and community spirit come together.
Bryn Griffiths W M Social Club
17.0 km
Discover the vibrant community spirit at Bryn Griffiths W M Social Club in Mold, where fun meets fellowship and local culture thrives.
North Wales Celebrations Wedding & Party Disco DJ
17.0 km
Elevate your celebrations with North Wales Celebrations - the premier mobile disco DJ service for unforgettable weddings and parties.
The Magnet Club
17.2 km
Wrexham’s independent venue since 1984, The Magnet Club blends live music, sports, and social games in a welcoming, refurbished space on King Street.
Flint Royal British Legion Social Club
17.6 km
A welcoming social hub in Flint supporting veterans and community through camaraderie, remembrance, and local events.
The Establishment
21.9 km
A vibrant Widnes nightclub offering lively events, friendly staff, and a spacious venue for unforgettable nights out.
Supper Club at Blundell Street
23.9 km
Liverpool's ultimate supper club: fuel up on hearty meals, then dance the night away to drag shows, tributes, and non-stop hits near Echo Arena.
The Blue Angel Nightclub
24.2 km
Liverpool's dingy dive for 60s rock legends, dirt-cheap drinks, and sweaty throwback dances—where The Beatles once rocked and students still rage till dawn.
Cool It
24.3 km
A multi-level, student-friendly nightclub on Seel Street offering loud DJ nights, bargain entry and packed late‑night dancefloors.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Relaxing
- Tranquil
- Unique
- Casual
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Rustic Designs
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Aesthetic Corners
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Weekend Getaway
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Adult Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Teen Friendly