The madness of freshers’ week has subsided and hopefully you’re getting over your fresher’s flu (here’s our guide to local GPs if you’re still suffering).
Now you’re all settled in to the beautiful city of Chester here is our latest student guide to the 10 best places, in alphabetical order, for regular live music in the city.
1. Alexander’s, Rufus Court
What does this place not do?
Alexander’s puts on a range of music including jazz, blues, soul, roots and rock, comedy and drama every night of the week. If you’re a musician yourself they also have their Unplugged open mic night every Tuesday (apparently Duffy started out as a regular here, remember her?)
Beer o’clock? Draft and cask ales, wines and a selection of spirits. Open from 8pm-2am (12.30 on Sundays)
More info:alexanderslive.com
2. The Botanist, St Werburgh St
It's like a party in your garden shed
The Botanist features a variety of folk bands and duos every night from 9pm. Once a month they also do a live sing-a-long (don’t worry, it’s not karaoke). With musicians performing acoustic versions of modern classics, the audience are encouraged to sing along as loudly as they like. Don’t worry though, lyric books are provided to avoid one of those embarrassing goldfish-style miming moments.
Beer o’clock? The Botanist serves a selection of botanical cocktails and craft beers and ales.
More info:thebotanist.uk.com
3. The Cellar, City Road
Not as creepy as it sounds
Looking for more of a late night? If it’s live music and a party atmosphere you’re after then this place has some of the best bands around playing from 10pm every Friday and Saturday.
Beer o’clock? Their lounge bar also offers you a selection of beers from local real ales to imported bottle and draught beer, and an extensive wine list and spirit selection.
More info:www.thecellarchester.co.uk
4. The Church, Newgate St
Enjoy the look of confusion as you tell them you’re going to Church
Not only does this venue showcase local live music talent every Thursday, Friday and Saturday night from 10.30, but as you may have guessed, it’s a converted church which makes for fairly spectacular surroundings.
Beer o’clock? They serve premium lagers, real ales, guinness and ciders all on draught along with a personally produced cocktail and wine list. Last orders at 2am.
More info:www.churchchester.com
5. The Compass, City Road
So quaint and cozy are you sure you left home?
Described as an alternative to the usual pub, the downstairs may have sofas and a log fire but the upstairs is where the party happens. The Compass offers a variety of alternative music from acoustic to rock on different nights throughout the week. Book in advance because they do sell out.
Beer o’clock? The Compass delivers a wide selection of wines, spirits and real ales. Open from 10am-11pm.
More info:thecompasschester.com
6. The Golden Eagle, Castle Street
Staff so friendly you’ll want to take them home to meet your parents
A gothic looking venue with a friendly pub atmosphere. There’s always something going on at this place so make sure you like them on Facebook to keep up to date.
Beer o’clock? Bar open from noon-12am.
More info:facebook.com/EagleBarandKitchen
7. Kash Taprooms, Brook Street
There must be some Time Lord technology going on here?
This place looks so tiny on the outside it’s a wonder they can fit a whole band in but these guys have done wonders with the space. They have various live bands and acoustic sessions throughout the week so keep an eye on their Facebook page for more details.
Beer o’clock? The Kash Taprooms make all their own beer on site (where?!) and are open from 4pm-12am.
More info:facebook.com/KashTapChester
8. The Live Rooms, Station Road
More bands than a teenage girl’s arm
The Live Rooms is Chester’s newest and largest independent live music venue and nightclub. The main room hosts big bands from a diverse range of genres, while the side room provides an ideal space for smaller, more intimate shows.
Beer o’clock? The upstairs area features a bar and a balcony overlooking the main room. Advanced booking only.
More info:www.theliverooms.com
9. The Ship Inn
For those lazy, hazy (or hungover) days
The Ship Inn, Chester is a charming pub overlooking the picturesque River Dee. If you’re looking for something a little more relaxed then go along for a nice drink with some friends while watching some very talented performers. Enjoy some acoustic music every Friday or a bit of jazz on the first Sunday of every month.
Beer o’clock? The Ship Inn serves a full selection of real ales and regularly changing guest beers. Open from noon-11pm.
More info:www.theshipchester.com
10. Telford’s Warehouse
Just don’t fall in... you’ll see what we mean
Situated very close to the Shropshire Union Canal, not only is this a great music venue but a very scenic area as well. With a restaurant upstairs and the pub on the ground floor its lower area is reserved for its highly regarded music nights. They have live bands every weekend and on various nights throughout the week and budding musicians can enjoy an open mic night every Sunday.
Beer o’clock? Cask ales from around the country and from local brewers and a selection of wines and spirits. Open from noon-11pm and till 2am on weekends.
More info:www.telfordswarehouse.com
To keep up to date with other events in Chester check out our What's On Guide
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