The Old Harkers Arms: Chester’s Historic Canalside Pub
A cozy canalside pub in Chester blending historic charm, quality ales, and classic British fare in a vibrant, welcoming atmosphere.
Located on 1 Russell Street in Chester, The Old Harkers Arms is a beloved canalside pub known for its cozy historic interior, excellent real ales, and quality British pub fare. Its charming atmosphere, attentive service, and scenic waterside setting make it a popular spot for locals and visitors seeking a traditional yet vibrant pub experience in Chester’s city centre.
A brief summary to The Old Harkers Arms
- 1 Russell St, Chester, CH3 5AL, GB
- +441244344525
- Visit website
- Duration: 1 to 3 hours
- Mid ranged
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Indoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
- Monday 10:30 am-11 pm
- Tuesday 10:30 am-11 pm
- Wednesday 10:30 am-11 pm
- Thursday 10:30 am-11 pm
- Friday 10:30 am-11 pm
- Saturday 10:30 am-11 pm
- Sunday 10:30 am-10:30 pm
Local tips
- Book a table in advance, especially for dining in the smaller, quieter area to ensure a comfortable meal.
- Try the Sunday roast or wild mushroom and tarragon soup for classic, well-executed British dishes.
- Enjoy a pint of well-kept real ale from the extensive selection, including local and guest beers.
- Visit during warmer months to take advantage of the outdoor seating overlooking the canal.
- Arrive early or midweek to avoid the busiest times and experience the pub’s cozy atmosphere.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
The Old Harkers Arms location weather suitability
-
Any Weather
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Rain / Wet Weather
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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about The Old Harkers Arms
Historic Charm Meets Canalside Ambience
Nestled alongside Chester’s picturesque canal, The Old Harkers Arms offers visitors a quintessential British pub experience steeped in history and character. The interior features classic dark wood paneling, vintage lighting, and bookcases that create a warm, inviting atmosphere reminiscent of a bygone era. The pub’s location by the water adds a tranquil backdrop, perfect for enjoying a leisurely drink or meal while watching boats glide past.A Culinary Focus on Quality Traditional Fare
The pub’s menu showcases traditional British dishes with a modern twist, emphasizing quality ingredients and generous portions. Signature offerings include expertly cooked Sunday roasts with Yorkshire pudding, wild mushroom and tarragon soup, and hearty meat pies. The food is praised for its rich flavors and careful presentation, pairing perfectly with the pub’s well-kept selection of real ales and craft beers. Seasonal specials and vegetarian options ensure there is something for every palate.Vibrant Social Scene and Friendly Service
The Old Harkers Arms maintains a lively yet comfortable atmosphere, attracting a diverse crowd from locals to visitors. The staff are known for their attentiveness and friendliness, contributing to a welcoming environment. While the main bar area buzzes with energy, a quieter dining space is available for those seeking a more intimate meal. Table service enhances the experience, especially during busy periods.Location and Accessibility in Chester’s Heart
Situated just a few hundred yards from Chester railway station, the pub is easily accessible for travelers exploring the city. Its canalside position near City Road provides a scenic setting while remaining close to Chester’s historic centre and other attractions. Outdoor seating along the canal is available during warmer months, offering a charming spot to relax and soak in the surroundings.Reputation and Visitor Highlights
The Old Harkers Arms enjoys a strong reputation for quality beer and food, regularly cited as one of Chester’s top pubs. Visitors appreciate the combination of excellent ales, classic pub grub, and the unique ambiance created by the canal-side location and historic decor. While some note that prices for wine and certain dishes can be on the higher side, the overall experience is widely regarded as worthwhile.Enduring Appeal and Local Significance
Over the years, The Old Harkers Arms has established itself as a cornerstone of Chester’s pub culture. Its blend of tradition, quality, and conviviality continues to draw repeat visitors and newcomers alike. Whether stopping by for a casual drink, a hearty meal, or a special occasion, this pub offers a memorable taste of Chester’s heritage and hospitality.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Uffington House, Chester
0.3 km
Victorian literary landmark where author Thomas Hughes built his Chester residence in 1885.
Eastgate Clock
0.6 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.
Roman South East Corner Tower
0.7 km
Explore the enduring Roman South East Corner Tower, a sentinel of Chester’s ancient fortress and a testament to Roman military engineering.
Chester War Memorial
0.7 km
A solemn neo-medieval tribute to fallen soldiers, unveiled in 1922 within Chester Cathedral's historic grounds.
Crypt Chambers
0.7 km
Medieval crypt meets Victorian Gothic Revival in Chester's most architecturally significant commercial building.
Ancient Roman Columns, Chester
0.8 km
Roman column bases marking Chester's legacy as a major legionary fortress and potential capital of Britannia.
Chester Town Hall
0.8 km
A stunning Victorian Gothic Revival landmark, Chester Town Hall is the historic heart of Chester’s civic and cultural life.
Chester Visitor Information Centre
0.8 km
Explore Chester's rich history and vibrant culture at the Visitor Information Centre, your essential resource for navigating this historic city.
Chester Cross
0.8 km
Medieval heart of Chester where Roman streets meet Tudor architecture and civic tradition.
Wishing Steps
0.8 km
Historic stone steps at Chester’s medieval walls where wishes come true through a charming local tradition.
Bridge Of Sighs
0.8 km
A haunting 1793 stone bridge where condemned prisoners took their final steps before execution—Chester's most poignant historical crossing.
Churchill House
0.8 km
A vibrant academic landmark on Chester’s Queen’s Park campus, blending historic charm with modern learning and scenic riverside views.
Bridge Gate and Old Dee Bridge
1.0 km
Historic medieval gateway and ancient stone bridge spanning the scenic tidal River Dee in Chester’s charming riverside setting.
Cheshire Military Museum
1.1 km
Discover the rich military history of Cheshire at the Cheshire Military Museum, a captivating journey through the stories of valor and sacrifice.
Stanley Palace
1.1 km
Experience the historic charm of Stanley Palace, an iconic events venue in Chester offering a perfect blend of heritage and modern functionality.
Unmissable attractions to see
Chester Shot Tower
0.2 km
Explore Chester Shot Tower, an iconic historical landmark showcasing Chester's rich industrial heritage and stunning Victorian architecture.
Grosvenor Park Minature Railway
0.3 km
Charming miniature train rides through scenic Grosvenor Park, perfect for families and railway fans in Chester.
Chester City Sightseeing Tour Bus
0.3 km
Explore Chester’s historic landmarks with a flexible hop-on hop-off open-top bus tour featuring expert commentary and easy accessibility.
The Live Rooms
0.4 km
Chester’s largest live music venue offering intimate gigs, diverse events, and a vibrant nightlife just steps from the train station.
Statue of Richard Grosvenor, Second Marquess of Westminster
0.4 km
A majestic Victorian marble statue honoring Richard Grosvenor’s legacy, set in the tranquil Grosvenor Park at Chester’s historic heart.
Grosvenor Park
0.4 km
A Victorian-era riverside park in Chester with historic arches, vibrant gardens, family fun, and summer open-air theatre.
Chester Supertrees
0.4 km
Steel giants wrapped in living plants—Chester's answer to urban air pollution and ecological innovation.
Chester Rows Cafe
0.4 km
A cozy coffee spot nestled in Chester Visitor Centre, offering a welcoming pause amidst the city’s historic Rows and vibrant heritage.
Chester Art Trail
0.5 km
Discover Chester’s vibrant creativity on a dynamic art trail showcasing local talent and transforming the city’s streets into an open-air gallery.
John Ivies' Fountain
0.5 km
A serene historic fountain in Chester blending Victorian artistry with urban charm and quiet reflection.
Parish Church of St John the Baptist, Chester
0.6 km
Discover Chester’s ancient Norman church, once a cathedral, rich in history, medieval architecture, and spiritual heritage.
Chester Roman Amphitheatre
0.6 km
Explore Britain’s largest Roman amphitheatre, a remarkable open-air archaeological site revealing Chester’s rich Roman heritage and ancient spectacles.
Chester City Walls
0.6 km
Walk Britain’s most complete city walls for panoramic views over Chester’s historic centre, cathedral, Roman amphitheatre and the River Dee.
Garden of the Honourable Cheshire Regiment
0.6 km
A tranquil memorial garden in Chester Cathedral’s precincts honoring the valor and sacrifice of the Cheshire Regiment’s soldiers.
King Charles Tower
0.6 km
Visit King Charles Tower in Chester for a blend of breathtaking views and rich historical context, a must-see landmark for every traveler.
Essential places to dine
Siam Thai & Teppan-Yaki
0.0 km
Experience authentic Thai flavors and captivating Japanese teppanyaki performances in Chester’s vibrant canal-side restaurant.
The Yard Modern Italian Restaurant Chester
0.0 km
A vibrant family-run modern Italian restaurant in Chester serving bold Mediterranean flavors with fresh, artfully presented dishes in a relaxed atmosphere.
The Forge
0.2 km
Chester’s acclaimed steakhouse and fine dining gem, The Forge offers expertly aged steaks, sustainable ingredients, and a warm, inviting atmosphere.
Atina Kitchen
0.3 km
Experience vibrant Italian-British fusion cuisine in a cozy, dog-friendly setting with creative brunches and warm hospitality in Chester.
Pierogi | Handmade Polish Dumplings
0.4 km
Authentic handmade Polish dumplings in Chester’s cozy Brook Street eatery, blending tradition with fresh, comforting flavors.
Chai Station - Vegetarian vegan Indian
0.4 km
Authentic vegetarian and vegan Indian flavors in Chester’s cozy, welcoming eatery with a personal touch.
Frodsham's Grill Chester
0.5 km
Authentic Mediterranean and Turkish charcoal-grilled delights served in a welcoming Chester setting with attentive service and a lively atmosphere.
Pacinos
0.5 km
Family-run Italian and Mediterranean fine dining in Chester's city centre since 1986.
La Brasserie at The Chester Grosvenor
0.6 km
Experience vibrant modern European dining and a glamorous Champagne bar in the heart of historic Chester at La Brasserie, The Chester Grosvenor.
Ristorante Sergio
0.6 km
Cozy Italian dining with authentic flavors and friendly service in the heart of Chester’s historic district.
Arkle
0.6 km
Discover refined British fine dining with seasonal tasting menus and impeccable service at Arkle, Chester’s premier luxury restaurant.
The Botanist Chester
0.7 km
Experience the vibrant atmosphere at The Botanist Chester - where delicious food meets live music in a beautifully designed setting.
Bella Italia - Chester
0.7 km
Classic Italian dining with authentic flavors in a charming historic building at Chester’s vibrant Eastgate Street.
Rio Brazilian Steakhouse
0.7 km
Authentic Brazilian churrascaria with premium meats, vibrant atmosphere, and exceptional service in the heart of Chester.
Duttons
0.7 km
Chester’s stylish modern European bistro blending classic charm with fresh seasonal cuisine and vibrant cocktails in a cozy, elegant setting.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Lee Louise Chester Ltd
0.4 km
Discover Chester’s oldest timber-framed shop, a vibrant treasure trove of crystals, holistic gifts, and unique fashion in a historic 1571 building.
Lagenlook Clothing Boutique - Pale Grey Boutique
0.4 km
Explore unique Lagenlook fashion at Chester's Pale Grey Boutique, where style and elegance meet individuality in every layer.
Church Gifts Shop
0.6 km
Discover meaningful religious gifts in Chester’s historic heart at the welcoming Church Gifts Shop on Eastgate Street.
About you
0.6 km
Contemporary clothing store at Chester’s Grosvenor Shopping Centre, blending modern fashion with historic city charm.
Gift Company CHESTER
0.6 km
Discover eclectic gifts and stylish homewares in Chester’s charming Grosvenor Precinct at Gift Company Chester.
Søstrene Grene
0.6 km
Discover Scandinavian-inspired home décor, crafts, and gifts at Søstrene Grene Chester, a charming and affordable treasure trove in the city center.
Lily Vintage Boutique
0.7 km
Discover timeless style and unique vintage fashion at Lily Vintage Boutique in Chester’s historic St Werburgh Street.
Foxy Frox Boutique
0.7 km
A stylish women’s clothing boutique in Chester’s historic center, offering contemporary fashion with a personal touch and a relaxed, independent vibe.
erj Boutique & Lifestyle
0.7 km
Discover curated womenswear, footwear, jewellery, and homeware in Chester’s vibrant Hoole at erj Boutique & Lifestyle.
Olivia & Smith
0.7 km
Discover bespoke jewellery, stylish handbags, and unique gifts at Olivia & Smith, Chester’s charming boutique for quality and personalized service.
Menkind
0.7 km
Discover quirky gifts, gadgets, and tech accessories for men and boys in the heart of Chester’s historic shopping district.
The Mug Doctor
0.7 km
Chester's specialist mug retailer offering personalized drinkware and quirky gift finds.
Styled Boutique
0.8 km
A warm, independent women’s boutique in Chester’s historic centre, offering easy-to-wear fashion and a personal, friendly shopping experience.
CH.ONE
0.8 km
Discover quirky, stylish bargains at CH.ONE, a unique ladies' clothing boutique in the heart of Chester's vibrant Northgate Street.
NICHOLS
0.8 km
Discover Nichols, Chester’s quirky boutique blending unique ladies’ fashion with antique treasures in a charming historic setting.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
The Old Harkers Arms
0.0 km
A cozy canalside pub in Chester blending historic charm, quality ales, and classic British fare in a vibrant, welcoming atmosphere.
The Cornerhouse
0.1 km
A lively Chester bar blending craft beers, live music, and a welcoming vibe for memorable nights and celebrations.
Revolution Chester
0.3 km
Lively cocktail bar and restaurant in Chester city centre, perfect for socialising, dining, and celebrations with expertly mixed drinks and vibrant atmosphere.
Brewhouse & Kitchen - Chester
0.3 km
Chester’s vibrant brewpub serving award-winning craft beers, hearty British classics, and a lively community atmosphere on Love Street.
The Deva Tap
0.4 km
Discover Chester’s quirky craft beer gem with a vibrant atmosphere, diverse brews, and a welcoming beer garden on Brook Street.
City Tavern
0.5 km
Historic Chester pub blending traditional charm with lively entertainment, great food, and a vibrant community atmosphere.
Red Door
0.6 km
Vibrant late-night cocktail bar and restaurant in Chester’s city center, known for creative drinks and lively music.
Metronome Jazz Bar
0.7 km
Chester’s intimate jazz bar with live piano, vinyl classics, and a warm, candlelit atmosphere for a perfect night out.
Music Hall Tap
0.7 km
Chester’s lively craft beer pub with rustic charm, live sports, and a vibrant social scene in the heart of the city.
All Bar One Chester
0.7 km
Stylish wine bar in Chester’s city center offering expertly crafted drinks and a vibrant social atmosphere.
The Church Chester Bar & Restaurant
0.7 km
Historic church turned vibrant bar and restaurant in Chester, blending classic charm with modern dining and lively atmosphere.
The Cavern of the Curious Gnome
0.8 km
A cozy upstairs bar in Chester famed for its curated Belgian ales, continental lagers, and British craft beers paired with classic comfort food.
The Lodge Bar
0.8 km
A cozy Chester bar blending classic pub charm with modern cocktails and fine wines in the vibrant Hoole district.
Paysan
0.8 km
Chester’s cozy wine bar with 200+ wines downstairs and a vibrant beer cellar upstairs, perfect for relaxed evenings and casual gatherings.
Watergates Bar
0.8 km
Historic medieval crypt pub in Chester city centre with vaulted ceilings, classic British fare, real ales, and a lively yet family-friendly vibe.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Cruise
0.6 km
A multi-floor nightclub in Chester offering vibrant music, premium drinks, and lively nightlife across seven bars.
BONOBO Bar & Canteen
0.6 km
A vibrant two-floor bar and canteen in Chester blending American eats, cocktails, video games, and lively music for a unique nightlife experience.
Rosies - Chester
0.7 km
Experience Chester’s vibrant nightlife at Rosies, a multiroom club with rooftop terrace, VIP lounges, and cutting-edge sound over three lively floors.
Chester City Club
0.9 km
Experience Chester’s vibrant nightlife at City Club, where modern beats meet historic charm in the heart of St Peters Churchyard.
Mandy & Graham’s
1.9 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
11.6 km
Experience the heart of Deeside at Ewloe Social and Community Club, where fun, games, and community spirit come together.
North Wales Celebrations Wedding & Party Disco DJ
17.5 km
Elevate your celebrations with North Wales Celebrations - the premier mobile disco DJ service for unforgettable weddings and parties.
Bryn Griffiths W M Social Club
17.7 km
Discover the vibrant community spirit at Bryn Griffiths W M Social Club in Mold, where fun meets fellowship and local culture thrives.
The Magnet Club
17.9 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
18.0 km
A welcoming social hub in Flint supporting veterans and community through camaraderie, remembrance, and local events.
The Establishment
21.2 km
A vibrant Widnes nightclub offering lively events, friendly staff, and a spacious venue for unforgettable nights out.
Supper Club at Blundell Street
23.6 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
23.9 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
24.0 km
A multi-level, student-friendly nightclub on Seel Street offering loud DJ nights, bargain entry and packed late‑night dancefloors.
Heebie Jeebies
24.0 km
Liverpool's eclectic nightlife heart: multi-level bar, live music basement, courtyard hangs, and anthemic nights until dawn on Seel Street.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Cozy
- Lively
- Relaxing
- Scenic
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Vintage Styles
- Rustic Designs
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Parks & Gardens
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Waterfront
- Iconic Views
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
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
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Pet Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly