The Old Harkers Arms, Chestera Canal-Side Pub on the Shropshire Union Canal

For canal boaters navigating the Shropshire Union Canal, Chester offers a wealth of history, charm, and hospitality. At the heart of it all is The Old Harkers Arms, a stylish waterside pub set in a converted Victorian canal warehouse. With its prime location along the towpath, it’s a favourite stop for narrowboaters, walkers, and sightseers exploring this historic waterway.

A Perfect Stop for Shropshire Union Canal Boaters

The Old Harkers Arms sits right on the canal, making it an ideal place to moor up and enjoy a break. Boaters can step directly from the towpath into a warm, characterful pub that blends canal heritage with modern comfort. Expect:

• Fresh, seasonal food served daily
• Cask ales, craft beers, and fine wines
• Canal-side seating for sunny afternoons
• A lively yet relaxed atmosphere, popular with locals and visitors alike

Whether you’re cruising through Chester on a longer journey or spending a few days exploring the city, Harkers is a natural gathering place for canal boaters.

Canal Heritage at Its Heart
The building that houses The Old Harkers Arms was once a Victorian warehouse, part of Chester’s busy canal trade. Today, the exposed brickwork, wooden beams, and waterside views reflect that heritage, offering boaters a strong sense of connection to the Shropshire Union Canal’s industrial past.

Why Shropshire Union Canal Boaters Choose Harkers

• Location: Right on the Shropshire Union Canal, close to moorings and the city centre
• Convenience: Easy access from the towpath – no long walks into town
• Quality Food & Drink: From hearty pub classics to lighter bites, paired with well-kept ales
• Atmosphere: A stylish yet laid-back setting that welcomes boaters, walkers, and sightseers alike

Explore Chester from the Canal
Mooring near The Old Harkers Arms also gives boaters the perfect base to explore Chester. From Roman walls and the famous cathedral to boutique shops and the historic Rows, the city is brimming with attractions just a short walk from the canal. After a day of sightseeing, there’s nothing better than unwinding with a drink back at Harkers, watching the canal life go by.

Visit The Old Harkers Arms on the Shropshire Union Canal

If you’re planning a canal journey through Chester, make sure The Old Harkers Arms is on your list. With its unique blend of heritage, hospitality, and canal-side charm, it’s one of the best pubs on the Shropshire Union Canal – and a favourite with boaters from near and far.

The Old Harkers Arms – where canal history and great hospitality meet, right on the towpath in Chester.