94 Lower Bridge St, Chester CH1 1RU

About This Pub

Oh, you know, when I think about the Bear & Billet in Chester, it just brings a smile – it's one of those pubs that really hits the spot for a relaxed get-together. The atmosphere is spot on; it's bright and lively without being overwhelming, with that lovely historic charm that makes you feel like you're stepping back in time, yet it's still welcoming and cosy. They've nailed the beer selection too – plenty of well-kept options and craft brews that go down a treat, and the staff are absolute stars, always cheerful and ready to lend a hand or share a tip on what to try. It's clean as a whistle, which is no small feat for a place with so much character, and they've got some nice food choices that pair brilliantly with a drink. On the flip side, their website is pretty underwhelming, so you won't find loads of info online to plan your visit. And because it's such a popular spot, it can fill up quickly, especially on weekends, so if you're after a quiet corner, you might have to time it right. All in all, it's a gem for anyone looking for good company and a great pint, but it's worth keeping those little niggles in mind for the full picture.

Pros and Cons

Pros
  • The atmosphere is absolutely brilliant – it's warm, inviting, and full of that charming historic character that makes you feel right at home.
  • They've got a fantastic selection of well-kept beers and craft ales, perfect for anyone who loves a good pint.
  • The staff are incredibly friendly and helpful, always up for a chat and making sure everything runs smoothly.
  • The place is spotlessly clean, which is a real treat in an old pub like this.
  • It's very welcoming for everyone, including families and dogs, with some lovely food options to boot.
Cons
  • The website is a bit basic and doesn't offer much detail, so you might need to just turn up and see for yourself.
  • It can get quite busy at times, which might mean a wait for a seat or a table on popular evenings.

Contact Information

94 Lower Bridge St, Chester CH1 1RU
+441244311886
Pub
Open Now

Opening Hours

Monday12:00 - 23:00
Tuesday12:00 - 23:00
Wednesday12:00 - 23:00
Thursday12:00 - 23:00
Friday12:00 - 23:00
Saturday (Today)12:00 - 23:00
Sunday12:00 - 23:00

Location

Recent Reviews

Went in for a quick drink on 16/04/2025 and ended up staying all night. We was never keen on the place previously however that has changed. It was bright, lively with a great choice of taps and really well kept beer. we found the place also to be absolutely spotless. Big shout out for Mandy who looked after us and the guiness. See you soon
TW
Tony Walsh
A Perfect Start to Our Chester Experience This was the first pub we visited in Chester, and it set the tone for a fantastic trip. The atmosphere was warm and inviting, and we absolutely loved how it looked—charming, cozy, and full of character. The barman was incredibly friendly, making us feel welcome from the start. The overall experience was great, and we couldn’t have asked for a better place to begin our time in Chester. Highly recommend!
WM
Whitney M
Hark! Attend, ye merry folk, for I shall regale thee with the most outlandish of tales from mine visit to the Bear & Billet Pub in yon Chester! 'Twas an evening rife with absurdity and mirth! Upon mine entry, I beheld a sight most peculiar—a bear, clad in a doublet and hose, didst greet me at the door! 'Twas no mere mortal, but a bear, I say! Verily, I was so taken aback that I nearly tripped o'er mine own feet. Within the pub, the decor was a hodgepodge of the fantastical and the nonsensical. Methinks I spotted a talking parrot reciting lines from Shakespeare, whilst a chicken played the lute with its beak. Such sights didst boggle mine mind and tickle mine fancy. I didst order a tankard of ale, only to be served by a jester who insisted on juggling mine drink before handing it to me. 'Twas a miracle that not a drop was spilled, and I drank heartily, with much bemusement. The patrons were a jolly lot, engaging in the most nonsensical of games. I didst partake in a contest of who could balance the most spoons upon their nose, and verily, I was bested by a chap who claimed to be a wizard. As the night wore on, the revelry grew ever more absurd. A sheep, dressed in knight's armor, didst challenge me to a duel of wits. I graciously declined, for how could I best such a valiant creature? In conclusion, the Bear & Billet is a place of whimsy and wonder, where the ordinary becomes extraordinary, and where one might encounter the most peculiar of sights. I shall return anon, for 'tis a most delightful abode of absurdity and mirth.
I
Iceman
What a lovely, historic pub that’s as interesting inside as on the outside. The Bear and Billet has a great selection of craft beers on offer and bar staff that clearly know their beers. The two barmen on during this afternoons visit were super friendly and helpful and brought my wife’s tea to our table on the first floor, to save us waiting. Food was dropped off to tables adjacent to us and looked great, so we’ll be ordering a meal on our next visit.
CL
Christopher Lewis
Popped into here because of friendly dog reviews as I have my dog with me on a weekend stay in Chester. Very welcoming walking through the door, very polite barman did not catch his name. Very very nice food, between the 4 of us we shared the chicken kiev fries and chicken tenders! Would recommend anyone to pop in lovely atmosphere and very welcoming. Feels like a nice friendly local pub
JM
Jordan Matthews

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