Storyhouse: Chester’s Cultural Heartbeat of Theatre, Cinema, and Library

Discover Chester’s vibrant cultural hub with theatre, cinema, library, and dining all under one stunning Art Deco roof.

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Storyhouse in Chester is a vibrant cultural hub combining an 800-seat theatre, boutique cinema, extensive library, and a lively restaurant and bar. Housed in a beautifully restored 1930s Art Deco Odeon, it offers year-round performances, community events, and creative spaces that nurture local talent and invite exploration. Located centrally on Hunter Street, Storyhouse is a welcoming social space and a cornerstone of Chester’s arts scene.

A brief summary to Storyhouse

Hunter St, Chester, CH1 2AR, GB
+441244409113
Visit website
Duration: 2 to 5 hours
Mid ranged
Indoor
Mobile reception: 5 out of 5

Local tips

Book theatre and cinema tickets online in advance to secure seats for popular shows and films.
Visit the library early to enjoy quieter reading spaces and free computer access.
Try the Kitchen café’s vegan options and enjoy panoramic views from the upstairs bar.
Check the event calendar for family-friendly workshops and seasonal festivals hosted by Storyhouse.
Use nearby New Market car park for convenient parking when visiting by car.

Getting There

Train

Chester train station is approximately a 15-minute walk from Storyhouse, providing frequent regional and national rail services. The walk is mostly flat but involves navigating city centre pedestrian streets. No additional cost beyond train fare.
Bus

Multiple bus routes serve Chester city centre with stops near Storyhouse on Hunter Street and Northgate Street. Journey times vary from 10 to 30 minutes depending on origin. Tickets cost between £2 and £5. Buses run frequently throughout the day.
Car

Visitors driving to Storyhouse can use the New Market multi-storey car park located adjacent to the venue, offering around 800 spaces. Parking fees apply, typically £2-£4 per hour. The area is pedestrianised, so walking a short distance from the car park is necessary.
Walking

Storyhouse is centrally located in Chester city centre, accessible on foot from nearby landmarks like Chester Cathedral and Chester Town Hall. The terrain is urban and pedestrian-friendly, suitable for all mobility levels.

Storyhouse location weather suitability

Any Weather
Rain / Wet Weather
Clear Skies
Mild Temperatures

Discover more about Storyhouse

A Revitalised Art Deco Landmark Breathing New Life into Chester

Storyhouse occupies the beautifully restored 1930s Odeon building on Hunter Street, Chester. This Art Deco gem has been transformed into a dynamic cultural complex that respects its architectural heritage while embracing modern design and functionality. The building houses an 800-seat proscenium theatre and a 150-seat studio theatre, alongside a boutique 100-seat independent cinema. The transformation has preserved the building’s historic charm while creating a versatile venue for a wide range of artistic expressions.

A Diverse Cultural Programme for All Seasons

Storyhouse offers a rich and varied programme throughout the year. The theatre hosts home-produced shows during the summer and Christmas seasons, featuring a 500-seat thrust stage that brings audiences closer to the performances. In spring and autumn, the venue welcomes some of the UK's best touring productions, including drama, comedy, dance, and music. The cinema screens the latest releases and independent films, complementing the live performances with a broad cinematic experience.

The Library: A Literary and Community Sanctuary

Weaving throughout the building, Storyhouse’s library is one of the longest-open libraries in the UK. It provides dedicated reading rooms, creative spaces, and a children’s library called The Den, designed to inspire storytelling and imagination. The library offers free computer access for cardholders and hosts regular activities such as rhymetime for preschool children, craft workshops, and book discussion groups. It serves as an inclusive community hub for study, creativity, and socialising.

A Social and Culinary Destination

The Kitchen, Storyhouse’s restaurant and café, offers a welcoming space to enjoy meals, snacks, and drinks throughout the day. With an emphasis on quality and variety, including vegan options, it complements the cultural experience with a relaxed atmosphere. Upstairs, bars provide panoramic views of Chester, enhancing the venue’s appeal as a social meeting point before or after shows.

Community Engagement and Festivals

Beyond its walls, Storyhouse actively engages with the community through festivals and outdoor events. It produces the award-winning Grosvenor Park Open Air Theatre every summer, transforming a corner of Chester’s Victorian park into a unique theatre-in-the-round. Storyhouse also hosts the Chester Literature Festival, WayWord festival during half-term, and a series of music concerts and film festivals, enriching Chester’s cultural calendar.

Accessibility and Welcoming Atmosphere

Storyhouse prides itself on being accessible and inclusive, with lifts and facilities designed to accommodate all visitors. Its central location in Chester city centre, near Chester Cathedral and New Chester Market, makes it easily reachable by public transport and foot. The venue is open daily from early morning until late evening, inviting locals and visitors alike to explore its diverse offerings at their own pace.