A new brewery and taproom off the beaten path in the heart of Chester is welcoming visitors to its top tipples.

Spookton Brew Co launched in summer 2022 by brewing its beer at other breweries. Since then it opened its Chester taproom in March this year, and was delighted to secure subsequent approval from HMRC to brew beer at its premises.

Founder and brewer Jon Pugh said the venue, located off Queen Street, along St Thomas’ Pathway, is another of Chester’s 'hidden gems'.

He said: “We really love the reaction that people have when they find out where we are. Yes, we’re tucked away a bit, but once you’ve found us once, you’ll be able to find us again."

Spookton Brewery and Taproom has opened its doors in the hart of Chester.

Spookton Brewery and Taproom has opened its doors in the hart of Chester.

Speaking about the on-site brewery, Jon added: “We can’t wait to get started. We’ve had so much interest and ideas since getting the keys that we’re having to make some tough decisions regarding which of our beers get brewed first!

“Settling down into our own premises is firmly in our plans and we’re so pleased with how the craft beer drinkers have welcomed us so far.”

Spookton is also pouring its beer alongside some of the best breweries in the country at the acclaimed Chester Craft Beer Festival at The Carriage Sheds on May 18.

Spookton Brewery and Taproom has opened its doors in the hart of Chester.

Spookton Brewery and Taproom has opened its doors in the hart of Chester.

Spookton’s beers are vegan, people are welcome to bring children until 6pm, and dogs are welcome any time.

Jon said: “We’re blessed with plenty of space – as well as using the building as a place to exhibit the work of local artists and host workshops. We’re also gearing up to host brew day experiences, tour and tasting events in the coming months.

“As a company, we also give five pence to local charities for every pint or can we produce and we’re really looking forward to sharing news of our latest Chester-based charity recipient in the next week.

"We’ve previously supported such organisations as Soul Kitchen and Magic Breakfast and can’t wait to be able to do more out of our city centre location."

Jon Pugh is a homebrewer turned pro whose goal is to share his enthusiasm for craft beer whilst, at the same time, supporting brilliant organisations.

The name 'Spookton', Jon added, is an in-joke that has got out of hand, the company is now sort of stuck with.

For more information about the new venue, including opening hours, visit https://www.spookton.co.uk/tap-room