Watergates Bar Travel Guide

Free Guide: Historic 12th-century crypt pub in Chester city centre, serving classic British fare and real ales in a lively, family-friendly atmosphere.

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A brief summary of Watergates Bar

Historic 12th-century crypt pub in Chester city centre, serving classic British fare and real ales in a lively, family-friendly atmosphere.

Watergates Bar is a renowned pub and restaurant located at 11 Watergate Street in Chester, England. Housed within what is reputedly the oldest medieval crypt in England dating back to the 12th century, this venue offers classic British pub fare including hand-battered fish and chips, pie and mash, and a wide selection of real ales and wines. It is family, dog, and wheelchair friendly, with free Wi-Fi and BT sports, making it a vibrant and accessible spot in Chester’s historic city centre.

1–3 hrsTime to spend

$$Mid-range

IndoorSetting

5 / 5Mobile signal

On-site amenities

Restrooms
Drink options
Food options
Seating areas
Information boards

4.3 Very good · 1,277 Google reviews

Plan your visit

Opening hours

Mon12 pm–11 pm
Tue12 pm–11 pm
Wed12 pm–11 pm
Thu12 pm–11 pm
Fri12 pm–12 am
Sat12 pm–12 am
Sun12 pm–10 pm

Opening hours as listed on the venue’s Google Business Profile. Hours can change for services and special events, so check with the venue before you go.

Address: 11 Watergate St, Chester CH1 2LE
Phone
Website

Getting there

Bus

Take local Chester city centre buses, which run frequently from various parts of the city to stops near Watergate Street. Travel times range from 10 to 25 minutes depending on your starting point. Tickets cost approximately £2-£4. Note that bus frequency decreases after 10pm.

Train

Arrive at Chester Railway Station, approximately 1.5 km from Watergates Bar. From the station, a 20-25 minute walk through the historic city centre leads you to the venue. Taxis are available outside the station, costing around £5-£7.

Taxi

Local taxi services provide direct access to Watergates Bar from anywhere in Chester. Typical fares within the city centre range from £5 to £10 depending on distance and time of day. Taxi availability is generally good, but may be limited late at night.

Walking

If you are staying in Chester city centre, Watergates Bar is easily reachable on foot within 10-20 minutes. The route is mostly flat and accessible, passing through charming historic streets with plenty of shops and sights along the way.

Discover more about Watergates Bar

A Medieval Setting with Rich History

Watergates Bar stands out not only for its food and drink but for its unique location within the oldest medieval crypt in England, dating back to the 12th century. This historic crypt provides an atmospheric backdrop that connects visitors to Chester’s deep past, offering a rare glimpse into medieval architecture and heritage right beneath the bustling city streets.

Classic British Pub Fare and Drink Selection

The menu at Watergates Bar embraces traditional British pub cuisine, featuring favourites such as hand-battered fish and chips, hearty pies with mash, and gourmet burgers. Complementing the food is an extensive wine list and a variety of real ales, including their signature 1730 pale ale. This combination of quality food and drink ensures a satisfying experience for both casual diners and pub enthusiasts.

Welcoming and Inclusive Atmosphere

Watergates Bar prides itself on being family-friendly until 7pm daily, after which the venue transitions to a more adult-oriented environment due to its liquor-led nature and city centre licensing. It is also dog friendly and fully accessible to wheelchair users. Free Wi-Fi and BT sports broadcasts add to the venue’s appeal, making it a comfortable and lively place to relax or socialize.

Location and Surroundings

Situated on Watergate Street, one of Chester’s most vibrant thoroughfares, Watergates Bar is surrounded by a rich mix of pubs, bars, cafes, and historic architecture. The area is a major tourist destination, offering visitors a lively urban atmosphere infused with centuries of history and culture.

Operating Hours and Practical Details

The bar opens daily at midday, with closing times varying from 10pm on Sundays to midnight on Fridays and Saturdays. This schedule caters to both daytime visitors and those looking for a late-night venue in the heart of Chester. The venue accepts credit cards and offers amenities such as outdoor seating, highchairs, and a full bar.

Experience and Significance

Visiting Watergates Bar is not just about enjoying food and drink; it is an immersion into Chester’s medieval past combined with contemporary hospitality. The crypt’s historic ambiance paired with modern comforts creates a unique experience that blends cultural heritage with social vibrancy, making it a must-visit landmark for locals and tourists alike.

Evendo Review Centre

Reviews from

Google

By star rating

Guest reviews

Best time to go

Quietest: Jan, Feb & Mar · before 10am

How busy it gets, month by month Estimated

Jan: 50% of the busiest month, one of the quietest
Feb: 50% of the busiest month, one of the quietest
Mar: 60% of the busiest month, one of the quietest
Apr: 70% of the busiest month
May: 80% of the busiest month
Jun: 90% of the busiest month
Jul: 100% of the busiest month
Aug: 100% of the busiest month
Sep: 80% of the busiest month
Oct: 70% of the busiest month
Nov: 60% of the busiest month
Dec: 60% of the busiest month

How busy it gets, hour by hour Estimated

12am: 10% of the busiest hour, one of the quietest
8am: 10% of the busiest hour, one of the quietest
9am: 20% of the busiest hour, one of the quietest
10am: 30% of the busiest hour
11am: 40% of the busiest hour
12pm: 60% of the busiest hour
1pm: 70% of the busiest hour
2pm: 70% of the busiest hour
3pm: 80% of the busiest hour
4pm: 80% of the busiest hour
5pm: 90% of the busiest hour
6pm: 100% of the busiest hour
7pm: 100% of the busiest hour
8pm: 90% of the busiest hour
9pm: 80% of the busiest hour
10pm: 60% of the busiest hour
11pm: 40% of the busiest hour

Busy times are Evendo estimates for a typical year, to help you plan. Actual crowds vary with events, school holidays and the weather.

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