The Oddfellows Arms - Chesteron the Shropshire Union Canal

Location on the Shropshire Union Canal

The Oddfellows Arms is situated on the northern edge of Chester, close to the canal’s impressive approach to the city basin. This stretch of the Shropshire Union Canal is characterised by leafy surroundings, well-maintained towpaths, and a gradual transition from open countryside into historic urban waterways.

The Oddfellows Arms is a well-known and much-loved waterside pub located in Chester, directly alongside the Shropshire Union Canal. Popular with boaters, walkers, and locals alike, this traditional pub enjoys a prime position near one of the most scenic and historic sections of the canal as it approaches the city.

Combining canal-side views, easy mooring access, and a welcoming atmosphere, the Oddfellows Arms has become a firm favourite stop for those exploring Chester by water or on foot.

Its position makes the pub an ideal stop for:

• Boaters arriving in or leaving Chester
• Crews looking for a break before city moorings
• Towpath walkers and cyclists
• Visitors exploring Chester’s canal heritage

The Shropshire Union Canal at Chester

The Shropshire Union Canal was engineered as a fast, efficient route linking the Midlands with the River Mersey and the port of Liverpool. As it reaches Chester, the canal becomes more enclosed and atmospheric, with stone bridges, cuttings, and mature trees lining the route.

This section of canal is especially popular with leisure boaters, offering calm cruising, easy lock-free navigation, and excellent access to the city’s historic centre.

A Popular Stop for Canal Boaters

The Oddfellows Arms is particularly well regarded within the boating community. Visitor moorings are available nearby, allowing crews to tie up safely and enjoy a relaxed visit.

Why Boaters Choose the Oddfellows Arms

• Convenient mooring close to the pub
• Easy access from the towpath
• A welcoming, informal atmosphere
• A natural stopping point before or after Chester Basin

It is common to see narrowboats moored nearby, with crews enjoying food and drinks after a day’s cruising.

Food, Drink, and Atmosphere

The Oddfellows Arms offers a traditional pub experience, with a focus on good value food, well-kept drinks, and friendly service. Inside, the pub retains a classic layout, while outside seating allows visitors to enjoy views of the canal and passing boats.

Highlights include:

• A range of beers, ales, and soft drinks
• Hearty pub meals and lighter options
• Outdoor seating overlooking the canal
• A relaxed, family-friendly environment

The steady movement of boats along the canal adds to the pub’s charm and sense of place.

Exploring Chester from the Oddfellows Arms

One of the pub’s biggest attractions is its proximity to Chester’s many historic landmarks. From the canal, visitors can easily reach:

• Chester city centre
• The famous Roman walls
• Chester Cathedral
• Canal-side walks and heritage trails

This makes the Oddfellows Arms an excellent base for combining canal cruising with sightseeing.

Walking, Cycling, and Wildlife

The towpath near the Oddfellows Arms is popular with walkers and cyclists, offering a flat, scenic route into Chester or out towards the Cheshire countryside.

Despite its urban location, the canal corridor supports a surprising amount of wildlife, including:

• Ducks and swans
• Fish visible in clear water
• Seasonal birdlife along tree-lined sections

Why the Oddfellows Arms Is a Canal-Side Favourite

• Directly beside the Shropshire Union Canal
• Close to Chester city centre
• Popular with narrowboat crews and walkers
• Easy access to visitor moorings
• A welcoming stop on a historic waterway

Conclusion

The Oddfellows Arms in Chester is a standout canal-side pub on the Shropshire Union Canal, offering the perfect mix of location, atmosphere, and convenience. Whether arriving by narrowboat, enjoying a towpath walk, or exploring Chester’s rich history, the pub provides a relaxed and welcoming place to pause and enjoy life by the water. Its setting on one of Britain’s most important canals ensures it remains a favourite stop for generations of waterway visitors.