Saturday 21 September was our branch social to Chester, with our party arranging to all meet up around noon at the Cellar on the outward walk from Chester railway station. Even though the city pubs were very busy due to a horse racing event, the staff did an excellent job with the prompt, friendly, knowledgeable service.
After an hour or so, we moved across the road to the Cornerhouse where again the staff were very helpful with advice on the ale choice.

A 15 minute stroll across the main shopping area brought us to the Spitting Feathers, Brewery Tap. This is housed in an old hall, accessed from street level up an external, stone staircase.

A short walk later, back towards the city centre and up another flight of steps onto the rows took us to Paysan’s cafe bar where a further staircase takes you up to the Cavern of the Curious Gnome. This is a pleasant, quirky bar with 4 cask ales on tap. In the corner the large Curious Gnome overseas the proceedings where the bar stools are upholstered in the style of mushrooms.

Our final pub, close to the railway station was the Deva Tap where we found 3 ales from Osset brewery. As we enjoyed our final drinks our numbers gradually dwindled as we headed for our selected return trains.

In summary, a great day out, in a great selection of pubs, with excellent beers. Even the weather was clear for the duration of our visit!

Many thanks to David Backhouse for organising the route and the write-up