The Botanist

The Botanist in Chester is the kind of place where the dog pauses at the door and you both clock it… this is going to be a proper sit-down. Plants overhead, cocktails arriving, and that layered, slightly magical feel that turns a stop into an occasion. Set just by the cathedral, this dog-friendly bar and restaurant leans fully into its botanical theme, with hanging greenery, warm lighting, and a space that feels somewhere between a garden and a hideaway.

It's spread across multiple floors with indoor and outdoor seating, making it just as good for a relaxed lunch as it is for an evening that quietly turns into a long one. The drinks are a big part of the draw: botanical cocktails, a wide beer selection, and a menu that mixes fresh, seasonal flavours with a slightly playful twist. Food is served throughout the day, with lunch available Monday to Friday until 4pm, happy hour running 4-7pm on weekdays, and brunch with bottomless options on Friday and Saturday mornings. Live music kicks off every Friday and Saturday from 9pm.

It's not a quick stop kind of place. It's a "let's settle in and enjoy this properly" one, where dogs are welcome in the bar and outdoor areas so nobody needs to split up or do the pavement shuffle. The bar serves food, which means dogs can join you for a meal indoors rather than waiting outside.