Beer gardens near Chester University

Beer gardens near Chester University

04/04/2025 by

Mark

With spring in full swing, it’s understandable that students in Chester are itching to get outside and enjoy it.

While a cornucopia of cosy pubs exist in the city for socialising over winter, Chester is always ready when it starts to warm up, with many venues featuring outdoor areas to catch some sun. Here, we look at some of the best beer gardens near Chester University.

Bouverie Arms

Based in the Garden Quarter the Bouverie Arms has one of the best-loved beer gardens in Chester. The spacious area is popular in spring and summer where punters can appreciate cocktails, spirits with mixers, and a wide choice of beer and wine. Just a five-minute walk to the university and close to student accommodation in the Garden Quarter with discounted drinks for students on certain nights, it’s not difficult to see why it’s popular with those studying in the city.

The Architect

Located on Nicholas Street, The Architect first opened its doors in 2012. Just a five-minute bike ride from the university, it offers an attractive building in a prime location. The pub’s beer garden is large enough to hold large parties, making it perfect for students with something to celebrate whether its a birthday bash or final exams. The pub garden overlooks Chester’s famous racecourse which remains the oldest active race venue in the world. Hungry students will also find The Architect serves both food and drinks from seasonal menus.

Telfords Warehouse

Popular with students living in the lower canal basin area, Telfords Warehouse is less than a mile away from the Exton Park campus. Situated at Tower Wharf it offers scenic views of the Shropshire Union Canal and students can enjoy house cask ales, cider and guest beers from local brewers. The pub also hosts an annual festival dedicated to beer and cider in the spring, and regular open mic nights for students to showcase their talents.

Oddfellows

Close to the city centre and Chester University, Oddfellows is a hotel and bar on Frodsham Street with a hidden gem of a beer garden. As its name implies, the venue has an “Alice in Wonderland” theme which makes for a unique drinking experience for students. The beer garden is a labyrinthine location accessed via the hotel’s interior bar. The garden’s unusual design features multiple levels with several different areas for private hire. Oddfellows is always ready for unpredictable British weather, and offers heated booths and a covered barbeque shed so students can appreciate a drink outdoors come rain or shine.

The Boathouse

A six-minute bus ride from Parkgate Road where Chester University’s main campus is based, The Boathouse can be found nestled in The Groves. Sited on the banks of The Dee, the pub offers picturesque river views and a relaxed atmosphere surrounded by nature. A popular place for parties, the Chester pub’s beer garden boasts beach huts and opportunities for a bougie barbeque. It also has outdoor fire pits to keep fun nights going longer and later.

Commonhall Social

A hip bar serving snacks, sharing platters and drinks, Commonhall Social is a 20-minute stroll from Chester University. A local gem in the city centre, the venue has a stylish beer garden with casual “shabby chic” charm. Sitting high above most roofs in the city, the outdoor spot is a natural sun trap and designed for comfort. Wooden furniture is strewn with throws and cushions, and low tables are kept close by to rest drinks on.

Alexanders

A live music venue by night, Alexanders has multiple outdoor spaces for students to enjoy. Situated in Rufus Court, its easily accessible from student accommodation in the city and an 11-minute walk from Exton Park campus and 7-minute walk from Queens Park campus. During spring and summer, students can sip on outdoor drinks in the paved courtyard at café-style tables, or opt to relax in the large rear beer garden at the back of the venue that overlooks attractive meadows.

The Church

Not far from the university on Newgate Street, The Church bar is a true original. As its name indicates, the bar is based in a converted chapel and has retained original features like its stained-glass windows and church organ. The bar’s front offers a long outdoor area that is regarded among the most popular beer gardens in the city with tables and seating for students to lounge at.

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Written By

Mark

Mark