Pubs in Chester with a View of The River Dee

The city of Chester offers many lively places for drinking and dining, but people who enjoy peace with their pint and pub lunch often enjoy river venues. Read on as we run down some idyllic spots along the Dee waiting to be discovered.

The Ship Inn

A stroll across the Old Dee Bridge lies Handbridge’s The Ship Inn. Offering a cosy pub experience beyond compare, hungry and thirsty visitors are met with hearty fare. Pies, burgers, roasts and nibbles are available for various appetites, and the well-stocked bar has drinks of virtually every kind imaginable.

The Boathouse Inn

The Boathouse is popular with those strolling the Dee in need of sustenance or a place to stay. Away from the city centre, it offers a tranquil spot to appreciate a slower pace of life. Food menus cater for a range of diets including vegan and vegetarian, and Sunday sees the pub prepare and serve a sumptuous roast lunch. For drinks there are top beers on tap like Manchester Craft Lager and JW Lees’ Bitter and a lengthy list of wines and spirits. The venue’s unique feature is a floating beer garden that lets punter enjoy an afternoon of drinking right on the river.

The Moorings

Owned by boatbuilders in the 19th century, today The Moorings offers Chester visitors and residents a place to eat and drink with river views. From its exemplary English breakfast boasting Master Butcher Award-winning sausages to its freshly baked scones, there are many treats to try. For drinks there are bottled beers, wines, sparkling prosecco and Victorian classics like lemonade, ginger beer, Elderflower and Dandelion and Burdock; those wishing to stay can book the No 23 apartment.

Hickory’s Smokehouse

Hickory’s is renowned for its Southern-style American barbeque. However, it’s also celebrated for its drink’s menu. It has outdoor seating affording guests splendid Dee views, and an eclectic mix of drinks are available to wash down dining delights like smoky ribs and succulent fried chicken.

Drinks on offer include US lagers and ales and Hawaiian beer, an extensive wine, spirit and cocktail list and boozy milkshakes infused with Jack Daniels. There are also plenty of sodas, alcohol-free daiquiris and zero per cent beer for those not drinking.

Treat yourself to a riverside lunch with drinks at some of these pubs on your travels to Chester.