Old Palace Chester
Historic Georgian palace with riverside elegance, 23 bedrooms, and exclusive-use sophistication for unforgettable celebrations.
A stunning Georgian manor house built in 1751, Old Palace Chester is an exclusive-use wedding and events venue overlooking the River Dee in Chester city centre. This beautifully restored historic palace features 23 en-suite bedrooms, multiple elegant event spaces including the River Room (former chapel), Ballroom, and Peploe Lounge, plus private gardens and outdoor terrace. With in-house catering, riverside location near Queens Park Bridge, and on-site parking, it accommodates up to 200 guests for weddings, corporate events, and celebrations.
A brief summary to Old Palace Chester
- Little St John St, Chester, CH1 1SN, GB
- +441244564380
- Visit website
- Duration: 4 to 12 hours
- Luxury
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Mixed
- Mobile reception: 5 out of 5
- Monday 9 am-5:30 pm
- Tuesday 9 am-5:30 pm
- Wednesday 9 am-5:30 pm
- Thursday 9 am-5:30 pm
- Friday 9 am-5:30 pm
- Saturday 10 am-4 pm
Local tips
- Book venue visits well in advance, especially for peak wedding season (May to September). The booking calendar fills quickly, and the team can arrange custom visit times if standard slots don't suit your schedule—call 01244 564381 to discuss options.
- Consider arriving by boat via the River Dee for a memorable entrance. ChesterBoat operates sightseeing cruises nearby, and the venue's riverside access makes water-based arrivals a unique option for guests.
- Take advantage of the on-site accommodation to extend your celebration. With 23 bedrooms available, guests can stay overnight, allowing the party to continue late without travel concerns and creating a complete destination experience.
- Plan your day around the natural light in the River Room and Ballroom. The glass extension and riverside windows create stunning photography opportunities, particularly during golden hour in late afternoon and early evening.
- Explore the private garden terrace and outdoor kitchen for alfresco elements. Even in cooler months, this space adds versatility to your event flow and provides beautiful backdrops for photographs and cocktail receptions.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Drinking Water
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Sheltered Areas
- Information Boards
- Visitor Center
Getting There
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Train
Chester railway station is approximately 0.8 km from Old Palace Chester, a walk of roughly 10–12 minutes through Chester city centre. Direct trains serve the station from Manchester Piccadilly (40–50 minutes), Liverpool Lime Street (45–55 minutes), and London Euston (2 hours 15 minutes). Taxis are available at the station rank, with journey time to the venue approximately 5 minutes and typical fares around £8–12. The walking route is pleasant and passes through historic Chester streets, though luggage may be cumbersome.
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Car
Old Palace Chester is accessible via the M53 motorway, which connects to the A55 and A483 trunk roads. From Manchester (40 km, approximately 50 minutes), take the M56 to M53 southbound; from Liverpool (30 km, approximately 45 minutes), take the M53 southbound. On-site parking is available at the venue. The postcode CH1 1SN can be entered into sat-nav systems. Street parking is also available in Chester city centre, though on-site parking is preferable for event guests.
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Boat
The River Dee provides a unique arrival option. ChesterBoat operates sightseeing cruises from the city centre (approximately 20–30 minutes by water to the venue's riverside access point). This scenic approach is memorable for guests and offers an alternative to road transport, though it is weather-dependent and operates primarily during daylight hours. Advance booking with the venue is essential to coordinate water-based arrivals.
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Taxi or Ride-Share
Taxis and ride-share services (Uber, local firms) operate throughout Chester and can reach Old Palace Chester from the city centre in 5–10 minutes, depending on traffic. Typical fares from Chester railway station are £8–12, and from the city centre approximately £6–10. This option is convenient for guests without private transport and eliminates parking concerns, though costs accumulate for larger groups.
Old Palace Chester location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about Old Palace Chester
A Georgian Jewel on the River Dee
Built in 1751, Old Palace Chester stands as a remarkable example of Georgian architecture, commanding a prestigious position on the banks of the River Dee in the heart of Chester city centre. This former bishop's palace has been meticulously restored to blend its historic grandeur with contemporary luxury, creating an exclusive-use venue that feels both timeless and thoroughly modern. The building's original features—from period details to architectural elements—remain visible throughout, telling the story of centuries past while providing an elegant backdrop for celebrations of all kinds. The riverside setting is one of Old Palace Chester's defining characteristics. Nestled beside the iconic Queens Park Bridge and overlooking The Groves, the venue offers guests unparalleled views of the River Dee. This natural beauty extends to the private garden terrace, where an outdoor kitchen allows for alfresco entertaining, and the secluded grounds provide intimate spaces for photographs, cocktails, or quiet moments away from the main celebration.Versatile Spaces for Every Occasion
The venue comprises multiple distinct spaces, each designed with both aesthetics and functionality in mind. The River Room, once the palace chapel, has been transformed into a light-filled space perfect for ceremonies, receptions, or conferences, retaining its spiritual character while serving modern purposes. The opulent Ballroom, with its glass extension offering elevated views over the adjacent Roman Gardens, provides an impressive setting for dining and dancing, accommodating up to 150 guests for seated meals. The Peploe Lounge and Bar offers a warm, inviting atmosphere for intimate gatherings or as a breakout area, while the Arrival Hall serves as an elegant welcome space for guests. For quieter moments, the Morning Room and The Den provide serene, comfortable spaces for preparation or reflection. Each room has been thoughtfully designed to flow naturally, allowing events to progress seamlessly throughout the day and evening. The flexibility of these spaces means they can be adapted to suit everything from formal black-tie weddings to corporate conferences, milestone celebrations, and vibrant social gatherings.Accommodation and Guest Experience
One of Old Palace Chester's most distinctive features is its 23 beautifully appointed en-suite bedrooms, including the show-stopping Palace Suite. This on-site accommodation transforms the venue into a complete destination, allowing guests to celebrate late into the evening without concern for travel. The short lift ride upstairs to their rooms means the party can continue seamlessly, and guests wake the next morning still within the palace walls. This integrated hospitality experience creates a sense of occasion and allows for multi-day celebrations or weekend getaways.Culinary Excellence and Beverage Curation
Dining sits at the heart of every experience at Old Palace Chester. The in-house culinary team crafts bespoke menus tailored to each event, ranging from fine dining to street food-inspired feasts. Menus incorporate seasonal produce and can be customized to accommodate dietary requirements and preferences. The beverage programme is equally impressive, with expertly curated wines, signature cocktails, and a fully licensed bar. The licensed status of the venue means alcohol service is seamlessly integrated throughout the day, from welcome drinks through to late-night celebrations, with bar managers overseeing service to ensure a smooth experience.Modern Amenities and Sustainability
While Old Palace Chester celebrates its historic past, it embraces contemporary comfort and forward-thinking practices. On-site parking is available for guests, and the venue is accessible by boat via the River Dee, offering an alternative and memorable arrival option. EV charging facilities reflect the venue's commitment to sustainability, as does its broader environmental ethos. The combination of historic character with modern conveniences—from en-suite bathrooms to contemporary kitchen facilities—ensures guests enjoy both authenticity and comfort.Location and Accessibility
Situated on Little St John Street in Chester city centre, Old Palace Chester benefits from excellent connectivity. The venue is conveniently located near the M53 motorway and Chester railway station, making it accessible for guests travelling from across the region. Its riverside position places it within walking distance of Chester's historic attractions, including the cathedral and Roman Gardens, yet the private grounds provide a sense of seclusion and exclusivity despite the central location.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Wishing Steps
0.1 km
Historic stone steps at Chester’s medieval walls where wishes come true through a charming local tradition.
Roman South East Corner Tower
0.1 km
Explore the enduring Roman South East Corner Tower, a sentinel of Chester’s ancient fortress and a testament to Roman military engineering.
Churchill House
0.2 km
A vibrant academic landmark on Chester’s Queen’s Park campus, blending historic charm with modern learning and scenic riverside views.
Eastgate Clock
0.3 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.
Bridge Gate and Old Dee Bridge
0.3 km
Historic medieval gateway and ancient stone bridge spanning the scenic tidal River Dee in Chester’s charming riverside setting.
Crypt Chambers
0.3 km
Medieval crypt meets Victorian Gothic Revival in Chester's most architecturally significant commercial building.
Chester Cross
0.4 km
Medieval heart of Chester where Roman streets meet Tudor architecture and civic tradition.
Chester War Memorial
0.5 km
A solemn neo-medieval tribute to fallen soldiers, unveiled in 1922 within Chester Cathedral's historic grounds.
Chester Visitor Information Centre
0.5 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
0.5 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
0.6 km
Roman column bases marking Chester's legacy as a major legionary fortress and potential capital of Britannia.
Uffington House, Chester
0.7 km
Victorian literary landmark where author Thomas Hughes built his Chester residence in 1885.
Bridge Of Sighs
0.7 km
A haunting 1793 stone bridge where condemned prisoners took their final steps before execution—Chester's most poignant historical crossing.
Overleigh Water Tower
0.8 km
Discover the Overleigh Water Tower, a stunning historical landmark in Chester, offering a blend of rich heritage and scenic beauty for all visitors.
Pemberton's Parlour
0.9 km
Explore Pemberton's Parlour, a striking red sandstone tower on Chester’s historic city walls, revealing centuries of medieval and Victorian heritage.
Unmissable attractions to see
Chester Roman Gardens
0.1 km
Explore Chester’s serene Roman Gardens, where ancient ruins blend with lush greenery alongside historic city walls.
ChesterBoat
0.1 km
Experience the beauty of Chester from the water with ChesterBoat's scenic cruises along the historic River Dee.
The Nine Houses
0.1 km
Discover Chester’s rare 17th-century almshouses—six beautifully restored timber-framed cottages steeped in history and architectural charm.
Parish Church of St John the Baptist, Chester
0.1 km
Discover Chester’s ancient Norman church, once a cathedral, rich in history, medieval architecture, and spiritual heritage.
Chester Roman Amphitheatre
0.1 km
Explore Britain’s largest Roman amphitheatre, a remarkable open-air archaeological site revealing Chester’s rich Roman heritage and ancient spectacles.
Queens Park Bridge
0.2 km
Explore the stunning Queens Park Bridge in Chester, an architectural marvel offering breathtaking views of the River Dee and a glimpse into the city's rich history.
John Ivies' Fountain
0.2 km
A serene historic fountain in Chester blending Victorian artistry with urban charm and quiet reflection.
Chester Rows Cafe
0.2 km
A cozy coffee spot nestled in Chester Visitor Centre, offering a welcoming pause amidst the city’s historic Rows and vibrant heritage.
Sick To Death
0.3 km
Explore Chester’s unique interactive museum revealing the gruesome history of medicine, disease, and healthcare through immersive exhibits and dark humor.
Grosvenor Park
0.3 km
A Victorian-era riverside park in Chester with historic arches, vibrant gardens, family fun, and summer open-air theatre.
Ye Olde King's Head Hotel, Chester
0.3 km
Historic Tudor inn in Chester famed for its rich heritage, cozy charm, and renowned paranormal activity with immersive ghost-hunting experiences.
Bear & Billet
0.3 km
Historic 17th-century Chester gastropub blending Tudor charm with hearty British fare and a lively, dog-friendly atmosphere.
Grosvenor Shopping Centre
0.3 km
Chester's premier shopping destination blending 70 diverse retailers with historic charm and modern convenience.
Eastgate St
0.3 km
Walk through history on Eastgate Street, Chester’s vibrant Roman-rooted street famed for its medieval Rows and captivating local legends.
Deva Roman Experience
0.4 km
Immerse yourself in Chester's Roman past with interactive exhibits, live actors, and authentic ruins beneath the city streets.
Essential places to dine
Hickory's Smokehouse Chester
0.1 km
Savor authentic American barbecue and smoky brisket in a lively riverside setting at Hickory's Smokehouse Chester.
Rio Brazilian Steakhouse
0.2 km
Authentic Brazilian churrascaria with premium meats, vibrant atmosphere, and exceptional service in the heart of Chester.
Artezzan Restaurant & Bar
0.2 km
Vibrant Mediterranean dining with fresh, honest flavors and handcrafted drinks in Chester’s lively Pepper Street venue.
Piccolino Chester
0.2 km
Stylish Italian dining with vibrant prosecco bar and alfresco terrace in Chester’s lively city centre.
Opera Restaurant Bar & Grill
0.2 km
Grand Grade II listed grill with live music, a rooftop terrace, and an internationally inspired steakhouse menu in the heart of Chester.
Six One Six Restaurant & Bar
0.2 km
A stylish Chester restaurant blending historic inspiration with modern elegance, exceptional food, and a vibrant social scene.
Chef's Table
0.2 km
Discover inventive modern British cuisine in a bright, welcoming setting at Chef's Table, Chester’s acclaimed seasonal dining destination.
La Fattoria
0.3 km
Experience vibrant Southern Italian dining with authentic flavors, generous portions, and a lively atmosphere in the heart of Chester.
Da Noi Chester
0.3 km
Experience authentic Piedmontese Italian cuisine with exquisite wine pairings in Chester’s intimate Michelin-recognized Da Noi.
Ruan Orchid
0.3 km
Experience authentic Thai cuisine with a vibrant atmosphere and welcoming service in the heart of Chester’s historic center.
Carbonara at No 49
0.3 km
Experience authentic Roman Italian flavors in Chester’s historic Bridge Street setting, blending tradition, warmth, and local produce.
La Brasserie at The Chester Grosvenor
0.3 km
Experience vibrant modern European dining and a glamorous Champagne bar in the heart of historic Chester at La Brasserie, The Chester Grosvenor.
Arkle
0.3 km
Discover refined British fine dining with seasonal tasting menus and impeccable service at Arkle, Chester’s premier luxury restaurant.
The Secret Garden Restaurant
0.3 km
Discover The Secret Garden at Oddfellows, a charming spot in Chester blending modern British cuisine with a unique garden ambiance.
Urbano 32
0.3 km
Authentic sourdough pizzas from a wood-fired clay oven in the heart of Chester, served in a stylish urban-chic pizzeria and bar.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
About you
0.3 km
Contemporary clothing store at Chester’s Grosvenor Shopping Centre, blending modern fashion with historic city charm.
Søstrene Grene
0.3 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
0.3 km
Discover eclectic gifts and stylish homewares in Chester’s charming Grosvenor Precinct at Gift Company Chester.
Styled Boutique
0.3 km
A warm, independent women’s boutique in Chester’s historic centre, offering easy-to-wear fashion and a personal, friendly shopping experience.
Ancient World
0.3 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
0.3 km
Discover timeless vintage fashion and expert styling in Chester’s charming Harley’s Vintage Boutique on Bridge Street Row.
Church Gifts Shop
0.3 km
Discover meaningful religious gifts in Chester’s historic heart at the welcoming Church Gifts Shop on Eastgate Street.
Lee Louise Chester Ltd
0.3 km
Discover Chester’s oldest timber-framed shop, a vibrant treasure trove of crystals, holistic gifts, and unique fashion in a historic 1571 building.
Rock Bottom / Florence & Company
0.3 km
Chester’s vibrant ladies' boutique offering fresh fashion, unique jewelry, and stylish scarves in a welcoming city center setting.
Jigsaw
0.3 km
Upscale women's fashion boutique blending timeless style with Chester’s historic charm on Bridge Street.
Chester Boutique
0.4 km
Discover curated contemporary fashion in Chester’s vibrant Bridge Street boutique, blending style with historic charm.
Menkind
0.4 km
Discover quirky gifts, gadgets, and tech accessories for men and boys in the heart of Chester’s historic shopping district.
Suzie K
0.4 km
Discover Chester’s magical alternative gift shop blending unique fashion, crystals, and holistic services in a warm, welcoming atmosphere.
NICHOLS
0.4 km
Discover Nichols, Chester’s quirky boutique blending unique ladies’ fashion with antique treasures in a charming historic setting.
Foxy Frox Boutique
0.4 km
A stylish women’s clothing boutique in Chester’s historic center, offering contemporary fashion with a personal touch and a relaxed, independent vibe.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
All Bar One Chester
0.2 km
Stylish wine bar in Chester’s city center offering expertly crafted drinks and a vibrant social atmosphere.
The Church Chester Bar & Restaurant
0.2 km
Historic church turned vibrant bar and restaurant in Chester, blending classic charm with modern dining and lively atmosphere.
Red Door
0.2 km
Vibrant late-night cocktail bar and restaurant in Chester’s city center, known for creative drinks and lively music.
Kings Head Chester
0.3 km
Historic 17th-century pub in Chester with classic British fare, a haunted reputation, and a cosy, welcoming atmosphere.
The Cavern of the Curious Gnome
0.3 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
0.3 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
0.3 km
Lively cocktail bar and restaurant on Chester’s historic Bridge Street, blending vibrant social vibes with diverse food and drink offerings.
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.
Commonhall Street Social
0.4 km
A cozy, dog-friendly bar with craft beers, delicious food, and a lively outdoor terrace in the heart of Chester’s city centre.
Metronome Jazz Bar
0.4 km
Chester’s intimate jazz bar with live piano, vinyl classics, and a warm, candlelit atmosphere for a perfect night out.
Revolution Chester
0.4 km
Lively cocktail bar and restaurant in Chester city centre, perfect for socialising, dining, and celebrations with expertly mixed drinks and vibrant atmosphere.
Watergates Bar
0.4 km
Historic medieval crypt pub in Chester city centre with vaulted ceilings, classic British fare, real ales, and a lively yet family-friendly vibe.
Music Hall Tap
0.4 km
Chester’s lively craft beer pub with rustic charm, live sports, and a vibrant social scene in the heart of the city.
Palm Cocktail Bar & Eatery
0.4 km
Chester’s vibrant cocktail bar with expertly crafted drinks, lively atmosphere, and friendly service on historic Watergate Street.
City Tavern
0.4 km
Historic Chester pub blending traditional charm with lively entertainment, great food, and a vibrant community atmosphere.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
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.
Cruise
0.2 km
A multi-floor nightclub in Chester offering vibrant music, premium drinks, and lively nightlife across seven bars.
Rosies - Chester
0.4 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
0.5 km
Experience Chester’s vibrant nightlife at City Club, where modern beats meet historic charm in the heart of St Peters Churchyard.
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
2.5 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
11.3 km
Experience the heart of Deeside at Ewloe Social and Community Club, where fun, games, and community spirit come together.
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.
Bryn Griffiths W M Social Club
17.3 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
17.3 km
Elevate your celebrations with North Wales Celebrations - the premier mobile disco DJ service for unforgettable weddings and parties.
Flint Royal British Legion Social Club
17.9 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
24.1 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
24.4 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
24.5 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
- Romantic
- Honeymoon-worthy
- Scenic
- Unique
- Boutique
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Historic
- Vintage Styles
- Modern Designs
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Modern
- Landmarks
- Viewpoints
- Heritage Neighborhoods
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Panoramas
- Waterfront
- Sunset Spots
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Aesthetic Corners
- Architectural Shots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Eco-Friendly
- Locally Managed
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- LGBT Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
