Discover Real Ale

Borderlands Ale Trail

Journey through 10 exceptional breweries and traditional pubs across Chester & Wrexham

Start Your Journey

Where Roman Walls Meet Welsh Brewing Heritage

The Borderlands Ale Trail celebrates the rich brewing tradition of the Welsh-English border region. From historic Chester pubs that have served ale since medieval times to innovative Welsh craft breweries pushing brewing boundaries, this trail takes you on a journey through centuries of brewing excellence.

Whether you're a real ale enthusiast, a craft beer lover, or simply curious about the region's brewing heritage, the Borderlands Ale Trail offers something extraordinary at every stop.

10
Breweries & Pubs
2
Cities
500+
Years of Brewing
Great Stories

The Pubs & Breweries

10 unmissable pubs and breweries to spend an afternoon

Bridge End Inn Ruabon
1

Bridge End Inn

location_on Ruabon, Wrexham

A traditional Welsh village pub with a fantastic selection of real ales. The Bridge End has been serving the Ruabon community for generations and is renowned for its rotating cask ales and warm hospitality. Perfect stop for those exploring the nearby Pontcysyllte Aqueduct.

Cask Ales Traditional Pub Local Favorite
Wrexham Lager
2

Wrexham Lager

location_on Wrexham Town Centre

Britain's oldest lager brewery, established in 1882. Wrexham Lager has a fascinating history and has been revived to produce authentic pilsner-style lager using traditional methods. Tour the historic brewery and taste a piece of Welsh brewing history.

Historic Brewery Tours Lager Specialist
Magic Dragon Brewery
3

Magic Dragon Brewery Tap

location_on Wrexham

A modern craft brewery with a taproom serving their full range of innovative beers. Magic Dragon combines traditional brewing techniques with experimental flavors, creating unique Welsh craft beers. The taproom offers a relaxed atmosphere perfect for sampling their latest brews.

Craft Beer Taproom Innovative
Pied Bull Chester
4

The Pied Bull

location_on Chester City Centre

One of Chester's oldest pubs, dating back to 1155. This historic establishment in the heart of Chester's Rows offers an extensive range of real ales in a building that has witnessed nearly 900 years of history. Medieval atmosphere meets modern ale selection.

Medieval Pub Real Ale Historic
Chester Brewhouse
5

Chester Brewhouse

location_on Chester

A brewpub where you can watch the brewing process while enjoying fresh beer. Chester Brewhouse combines restaurant quality food with house-brewed ales. Their seasonal specials and core range showcase the best of Chester brewing.

Brewpub Food Menu Fresh Beer
Spitting Feathers
6

Spitting Feathers Brewery

location_on Waverton, Chester

Award-winning Cheshire brewery producing exceptional ales with character. Spitting Feathers is known for their bold, full-flavored beers and creative seasonal brews. Visit their brewery tap to sample the full range in the Cheshire countryside.

Award-Winning Countryside Brewery Tap
Music Hall Tap
7

The Music Hall Tap

location_on Chester

Chester's premier craft beer venue with an ever-changing selection of local and guest ales. The Music Hall Tap celebrates craft beer culture with regular tap takeovers, meet-the-brewer events, and one of the best beer selections in the region.

Craft Beer Hub Guest Ales Events
Brewery Tap Wrexham
8

The Brewery Tap

location_on Wrexham Town Centre

A traditional micropub in the heart of Wrexham focusing on real ale and conversation. No music, no TV, just great beer and good company. The Brewery Tap champions local brewers and rotates their cask selection weekly.

Micropub Real Ale Focus Community Hub
The Boat Erbistock
9

The Boat at Erbistock

location_on Erbistock, Wrexham

Riverside pub on the banks of the River Dee with stunning views and excellent real ales. The Boat combines beautiful location with quality beer and food. Perfect for walkers exploring the Dee Valley or those seeking a countryside ale experience.

Riverside Food Pub Scenic Views
Old Harkers Arms
10

The Old Harkers Arms

location_on Chester Canal

Beautifully converted Victorian canal warehouse now serving as one of Chester's finest ale pubs. With exposed brick, canal-side location, and an outstanding real ale selection, Old Harkers combines history with exceptional beer in a stunning setting.

Canal-side Victorian Extensive Selection

Plan Your Route

Explore the interactive map to plan your Borderlands Ale Trail adventure