We’re deep into November and December, and that means Christmas is just around the corner. We are all desperately in need of getting into the festive spirit and my oh my, do we need some this year.
If 2020 was a bust (and it was) and 2021 was a damp squib (because it felt like it) then 2022 can only promise to be a heck of a lot better when it comes to visiting places (lots of new ones) and seeing friends in and around Chester this holiday season.
So whilst we all take stock of the things that we can be thankful for, there is plenty to look forward to as well. With that being said, we wanted to take a closer look at the thing you can expect to enjoy around Chester this Christmas time and where you can also pick up some great food, drinks and have a good old knees up if that’s what you want to do!
The Christmas Markets
Back this year with more stalls and even fan favourites returning, the Christmas Markets located outside of Chester town hall have a whole array of things to enjoy. From local produce including cheese, jams, charcuterie and even local gin and whisky to more exotic flavours and yes, the good old roast pork sandwiches, the Christmas markets will not disappoint.
Running from Friday 18 November to Wednesday 22 December, be sure to get down for a wander, pick up some nice artisan Christmas gifts and even enjoy a mulled wine or two to pass the time with friends and family.
New Chester Market
It’s been the talk of the town for the last few years – mainly thanks to all the road diversions, the one way system and now, the expensive car park… But the new Chester market is here and it has gone down an absolute storm!
Anyone with an Instagram account living in the city pretty much visited the market over the opening weekend, or that’s how it felt anyway. The market itself reported to have over 30,000 visitors in the first weekend alone.
For many it is a food court with less to do about a market whilst for others, this is exactly what the city needed. But if you’re looking to have a bit of a knees up with your friends and family then surely this has to be top of the list. There are lots of food makers to choose from which means that everyone’s tastes can be catered for and the bar has every beverage you would need to make a successful night of it as well.
Pubs & Bars
When we featured our pub selection for summer, little did we know that you’d be asking our agents for pub advice when viewing homes… OK, so it was a great list and for those of you who missed it, here’s our guide on this link!
Chester has a great selection of pubs and bars that every good Christmas catch up would enjoy to be present at let alone an office Christmas party.
Here are our selections for Christmas cheer in Chester;
– The Architect
54 Nicholas St, CH1 2NX
Located across from Chester racecourse, this popular pub has become a stalwart for anyone looking to get great food and even more importantly, great drink to go with it. The covered terrace – which is now also heated – is great for those who enjoy blankets and being outside. Yes, there are some that love really cold nights under heated lamps… why not hey?!
– Commonhall Social
10 Commonhall St, CH1 2BJ
If board games, if entertainment, if a damn fine pint or G&T is what will whet your appetite, then Commonhall Social (next to our old offices) is the place you want to visit. With zero pretentiousness coupled with a cozy beer garden at the back, it’s a dream venue for those looking to get a drink and have a good time.
– The Grosvenor Arms
Chester Rd, Aldford, Chester CH3 6HJ
It’s a location that screams long, lazy Sunday lunch, a drink, a fireplace and the sight of a few salmon shirts… It’s all of that and yet, it’s one of the nicest pub locations that anyone could imagine going to in the whole of Chester. On the outskirts, heading towards Farndon and just after the popular Saighton home developments, The Grosvenor Arms is a perfect location for a family get together or even just pulling up for a drink and catch up.
– Artichoke
Steam Mill, The, Steam Mill St, Chester CH3 5AN
Finally, a suggestion for those who love a good mulled wine or even a solid cocktail… perhaps a foreign beer or two, Artichoke on the river is a perfect place to meet friends, go for a fairytale Christmas date or just catching up. It’s a perfect city centre location and one you need to try this Christmas in Chester.
Restaurants
And finally, would it be much of a guide if we didn’t talk about where to go in Chester if we didn’t mention our incredible restaurants? From Christmas menus to the things they’re famous for, Chester has a great selection of restaurants perfect for a Christmas party or get together.
– Sticky Walnut
11 Charles St, Hoole, Chester CH2 3AZ
The crowdfunded Hoole bistro has many a fan including Ainsley Harriot, but that’s not why you should eat there. You should eat at Sticky Walnut because the food is bloody delicious and the Christmas menu is always a seasonal winner! Quaint, small, practical and with a wine list that would put Charlemagne to embarrassment.
– Porta
140 Northgate St, Chester CH1 2HT
Think Spanish, think tapas, think elegant dining with candlelight, soft music and then stick them in a melting pot and you have Porta. It’s a dining experience that needs to be appreciated for any Chester resident and this Christmas, on the doorstep of the Christmas market, the Storyhouse and even the new Chester Market, book a table and get dining!
– Covino
118 Northgate St, Chester CH1 2HT
Just a few doors down from Porta there is Covino. It is one of Chester’s more arguably ingenious locations with a small plate menu, seasonal produce at its heart and a focus on wine like very few. With weekly specials and even multiple Christmas specials that have come with the restaurant in the past, it’s definitely one to tick off for the foodies and wine lovers in your group.
