Ye Olde King's Head Hotel, Chester
Historic Tudor inn and pub in Chester, famed for its timber-framed charm, rich heritage, and legendary paranormal activity.
Ye Olde King's Head Hotel in Chester is a historic Tudor-style inn dating back to 1622, built on 13th-century foundations. Renowned for its timber-framed façade, antique interiors, and rich history, it offers cozy accommodation and a lively pub atmosphere. The hotel is famed for paranormal activity, hosting ghost hunters and visitors drawn to its haunted reputation, making it a unique blend of heritage, hospitality, and mystery in Chester’s city centre.
A brief summary to Ye Olde King's Head Hotel, Chester
- 46 Lower Bridge St, Chester, CH1 1RS, GB
- +448438161161
- Visit website
- Duration: 1 to 4 hours
- Mid ranged
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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-12 am
- Saturday 12 pm-1 am
- Sunday 12 pm-11 pm
Local tips
- Book your stay in advance, especially if interested in the haunted rooms, as they are popular for paranormal enthusiasts.
- Enjoy traditional British meals and local ales in the pub’s atmospheric ground floor setting.
- Explore the visible medieval Chester Rows pillars on the middle floor to appreciate the building’s unique architectural history.
- Consider joining a ghost tour or paranormal investigation session to experience the hotel’s haunted reputation firsthand.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
Getting There
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Train and Walk
From Chester Railway Station, take a 15-20 minute walk along city streets to reach Ye Olde King's Head. The route is mostly flat and suitable for most travelers. No additional costs beyond train fare apply.
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Bus and Walk
Several local bus routes serve Chester city centre with stops near Lower Bridge Street. From the nearest stop, expect a 5-10 minute walk on paved streets. Bus fares typically range from £2 to £4 depending on the starting point.
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Taxi or Rideshare
Taxis and rideshare services can drop you directly at 46 Lower Bridge Street. Journey times from Chester city centre are around 5 minutes. Fares usually start at £5 and vary by distance and time of day.
Ye Olde King's Head Hotel, Chester location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Rain / Wet Weather
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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about Ye Olde King's Head Hotel, Chester
Ancient Foundations and Tudor Charm
Ye Olde King's Head Hotel stands on the site of a building originally constructed around 1208 as the townhouse for Peter the Clerk, the administrator of Chester Castle. The current Tudor-style structure, with its distinctive timber-framed upper storey, dates from 1622 during the Stuart period. This historic building is a designated Grade II* listed property, preserving its architectural heritage. Notably, parts of the medieval Chester Rows once ran through the building, and evidence remains visible in the form of support pillars on the middle floor. The hotel’s façade and interior woodwork reflect centuries of architectural evolution and restoration, including significant works in 1935 and the 1960s.A Hub of Hospitality Through the Centuries
Since at least 1714, Ye Olde King's Head has functioned as a public house and inn, welcoming weary travellers, merchants, and locals alike. The pub on the ground floor offers traditional British meals alongside a selection of ales and beers, while the upper floors provide accommodation that blends period character with modern amenities. The ambiance is enriched by exposed wooden beams, Elizabethan fireplaces, and antique furnishings that evoke the building’s long-standing role as a social and cultural hub in Chester’s city centre.Paranormal Legacy and Haunted Reputation
Ye Olde King's Head is famed as one of the UK’s most haunted hotels, reputed to be home to up to thirteen spirits. Paranormal phenomena have been reported throughout the building, with particular activity in rooms four and six. Guests have recounted sightings of apparitions such as a man in black and a ghostly child, alongside unexplained noises and objects moving on their own. The hotel’s upper floors are equipped with a network of night-vision and thermal cameras, capturing ongoing paranormal activity. This reputation has attracted ghost hunters and paranormal TV shows, making the hotel a unique destination for those intrigued by the supernatural.Historic Stories and Cultural Significance
The name “Ye Olde King's Head” is linked to the English Civil War era, with connections to King Charles who stayed nearby. The building’s history intertwines with Chester’s broader heritage, including its role in the Chester Rows and its transformation from a grand residence to a bustling inn. Archaeological finds during restorations include period artifacts and even timbers said to be from Admiral Lord Nelson’s ship, adding to the hotel’s rich narrative tapestry. The pub’s interior also hints at a colorful past, including a former brothel area, contributing to the ghostly lore that surrounds it.Visitor Experience and Atmosphere Today
Today, Ye Olde King's Head provides a cozy and atmospheric experience for visitors seeking authentic historic charm. The pub buzzes with lively conversation and traditional fare, while the hotel rooms offer a memorable stay steeped in history and mystery. The building’s haunted reputation adds an intriguing layer to the visit, enhanced by themed guest rooms and curated paranormal experiences. A historic Blue Plaque marks its significance, and the pub sign commemorates its royal associations, making it a must-visit landmark in Chester.Preservation and Modern Hospitality
Despite its ancient origins, the Ye Olde King's Head balances preservation with comfort. Modern amenities are thoughtfully integrated into the historic fabric, ensuring guests enjoy a comfortable stay without compromising the building’s character. The ongoing restorations and careful management maintain the hotel’s status as both a heritage site and a vibrant social venue, continuing its centuries-old tradition as a welcoming place for locals and visitors alike.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Bridge Gate and Old Dee Bridge
0.2 km
Historic medieval gateway and ancient stone bridge spanning the scenic tidal River Dee in Chester’s charming riverside setting.
Wishing Steps
0.2 km
Historic stone steps at Chester’s medieval walls where wishes come true through a charming local tradition.
Roman South East Corner Tower
0.3 km
Explore the enduring Roman South East Corner Tower, a sentinel of Chester’s ancient fortress and a testament to Roman military engineering.
Chester Cross
0.3 km
Medieval heart of Chester where Roman streets meet Tudor architecture and civic tradition.
Crypt Chambers
0.3 km
Medieval crypt meets Victorian Gothic Revival in Chester's most architecturally significant commercial building.
Churchill House
0.4 km
A vibrant academic landmark on Chester’s Queen’s Park campus, blending historic charm with modern learning and scenic riverside views.
Eastgate Clock
0.4 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
0.5 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
0.5 km
Roman column bases marking Chester's legacy as a major legionary fortress and potential capital of Britannia.
Overleigh Water Tower
0.7 km
Discover the Overleigh Water Tower, a stunning historical landmark in Chester, offering a blend of rich heritage and scenic beauty for all visitors.
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.
Pemberton's Parlour
0.8 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
0.8 km
Medieval gatehouse controlling Chester's western defenses, standing sentinel on Britain's most complete city walls.
Unmissable attractions to see
The Grosvenor Museum
0.1 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 History & Heritage
0.1 km
Discover Chester’s rich history and heritage through Roman artifacts, period rooms, and vibrant exhibitions at the Grosvenor Museum.
Sick To Death
0.1 km
Explore Chester’s unique interactive museum revealing the gruesome history of medicine, disease, and healthcare through immersive exhibits and dark humor.
Cheshire Military Museum
0.1 km
Explore centuries of Cheshire soldiers’ history through immersive exhibits and archives in the heart of Chester Castle.
Bear & Billet
0.1 km
Historic 17th-century Chester gastropub blending Tudor charm with hearty British fare and a lively, dog-friendly atmosphere.
Statue of Queen Victoria
0.2 km
Historic Grade II listed statue honoring Queen Victoria, standing dignified outside Chester Crown Court, a symbol of Victorian legacy and civic pride.
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.
Deva Roman Experience
0.2 km
Immerse yourself in Chester's Roman past with interactive exhibits, live actors, and authentic ruins beneath the city streets.
Chester Roman Gardens
0.2 km
Explore Chester’s serene Roman Gardens, where ancient ruins blend with lush greenery alongside historic city walls.
Chester Castle: Agricola Tower and Castle Walls
0.3 km
Explore Chester Castle’s medieval Agricola Tower, stunning city views, and centuries of history in this free, volunteer-run heritage site.
Old Palace Chester
0.3 km
Historic Georgian palace with riverside elegance, 23 bedrooms, and exclusive-use sophistication for unforgettable celebrations.
ChesterBoat
0.3 km
Experience the beauty of Chester from the water with ChesterBoat's scenic cruises along the historic River Dee.
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.
The Antiques Shop
0.3 km
Explore centuries of British history and craftsmanship in a rare medieval town house filled with genuine antiques in Chester’s historic Rows.
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.
Essential places to dine
La Fattoria
0.1 km
Experience vibrant Southern Italian dining with authentic flavors, generous portions, and a lively atmosphere in the heart of Chester.
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.
Ruan Orchid
0.1 km
Experience authentic Thai cuisine with a vibrant atmosphere and welcoming service in the heart of Chester’s historic center.
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.
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.
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.
Da Noi Chester
0.2 km
Experience authentic Piedmontese Italian cuisine with exquisite wine pairings in Chester’s intimate Michelin-recognized Da Noi.
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.
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.
Carbonara at No 49
0.2 km
Experience authentic Roman Italian flavors in Chester’s historic Bridge Street setting, blending tradition, warmth, and local produce.
Côte Chester
0.2 km
A stylish French brasserie in Chester’s city centre offering classic dishes, diverse menus, and a welcoming atmosphere for all occasions.
Urbano 32
0.2 km
Authentic sourdough pizzas from a wood-fired clay oven in the heart of Chester, served in a stylish urban-chic pizzeria and bar.
Hickory's Smokehouse Chester
0.2 km
Savor authentic American barbecue and smoky brisket in a lively riverside setting at Hickory's Smokehouse Chester.
Miller & Carter Chester
0.2 km
Experience expertly aged steaks and classic British dining in a stylish, welcoming steakhouse at the heart of Chester.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Ancient World
0.2 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
0.2 km
Discover timeless vintage fashion and expert styling in Chester’s charming Harley’s Vintage Boutique on Bridge Street Row.
Styled Boutique
0.2 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
0.3 km
Discover curated contemporary fashion in Chester’s vibrant Bridge Street boutique, blending style with historic charm.
Suzie K
0.3 km
Discover Chester’s magical alternative gift shop blending unique fashion, crystals, and holistic services in a warm, welcoming atmosphere.
Rock Bottom / Florence & Company
0.3 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.
NICHOLS
0.3 km
Discover Nichols, Chester’s quirky boutique blending unique ladies’ fashion with antique treasures in a charming historic setting.
Menkind
0.3 km
Discover quirky gifts, gadgets, and tech accessories for men and boys in the heart of Chester’s historic shopping district.
Fifi Bambu
0.3 km
Discover the magic of Chester’s Watergate Street through Fifi Bambu, a charming gift shop filled with unique treasures and enchanting finds.
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.
Harriet & Dee
0.3 km
Charming boutique gift and baby shop in Chester’s historic Watergate Street, known for unique presents and friendly service.
Elephant
0.3 km
Explore Chester's Elephant Gift Shop for unique, handcrafted gifts that celebrate local artistry and charm.
Gift Company CHESTER
0.3 km
Discover eclectic gifts and stylish homewares in Chester’s charming Grosvenor Precinct at Gift Company Chester.
About you
0.3 km
Contemporary clothing store at Chester’s Grosvenor Shopping Centre, blending modern fashion with historic city charm.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Kings Head Chester
0.0 km
Historic 17th-century pub in Chester with classic British fare, a haunted reputation, and a cosy, welcoming atmosphere.
Paysan
0.2 km
Chester’s cozy wine bar with 200+ wines downstairs and a vibrant beer cellar upstairs, perfect for relaxed evenings and casual gatherings.
The Cavern of the Curious Gnome
0.2 km
A cozy upstairs bar in Chester famed for its curated Belgian ales, continental lagers, and British craft beers paired with classic comfort food.
Slug & Lettuce - Chester
0.2 km
Lively cocktail bar and restaurant on Chester’s historic Bridge Street, blending vibrant social vibes with diverse food and drink offerings.
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.
All Bar One Chester
0.2 km
Stylish wine bar in Chester’s city center offering expertly crafted drinks and a vibrant social atmosphere.
Commonhall Street Social
0.3 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 Architect
0.3 km
Historic Georgian pub in Chester offering classic British cuisine, cask ales, and a lively atmosphere overlooking the Roodee racecourse.
Palm Cocktail Bar & Eatery
0.3 km
Chester’s vibrant cocktail bar with expertly crafted drinks, lively atmosphere, and friendly service on historic Watergate Street.
Watergates Bar
0.3 km
Historic medieval crypt pub in Chester city centre with vaulted ceilings, classic British fare, real ales, and a lively yet family-friendly vibe.
Havana Chester
0.3 km
Lively Cuban-inspired bar and restaurant on Chester’s historic Watergate Street, offering vibrant music, tapas, and creative cocktails.
Red Door
0.3 km
Vibrant late-night cocktail bar and restaurant in Chester’s city center, known for creative drinks and lively music.
Prohibition
0.4 km
Step into Chester’s Prohibition for expertly crafted cocktails and a vibrant 1920s speakeasy vibe in a cozy, intimate setting.
BarLounge - Chester
0.4 km
Chester’s premier lounge bar blending refined comfort food with creative cocktails in a stylish, welcoming setting.
The Guild Chester
0.4 km
Chester’s stylish cocktail bar and live music venue with two bars, terrace, and a vibrant yet intimate atmosphere.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
BONOBO Bar & Canteen
0.3 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
0.3 km
Experience Chester’s vibrant nightlife at City Club, where modern beats meet historic charm in the heart of St Peters Churchyard.
Cruise
0.4 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.
The Live Rooms
1.2 km
Discover Chester's vibrant nightlife at The Live Rooms, where live music, comedy, and unforgettable experiences await.
Mandy & Graham’s
2.7 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.
The Magnet Club
17.0 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.
North Wales Celebrations Wedding & Party Disco DJ
17.1 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
17.7 km
A welcoming social hub in Flint supporting veterans and community through camaraderie, remembrance, and local events.
The Establishment
22.1 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
- Historic
- Lively
- Unique
- Quirky
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Vintage Styles
- Rustic Designs
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- Heritage Neighborhoods
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Architectural Shots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Myth & Legends
- Festival / Event Nearby
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- LGBT Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Solo Female Friendly
