GBPA 2022

Meet the winner: Best Pub for Entertainment – the Saddle, Chester

By The Morning Advertiser

- Last updated on GMT

Calling the tune: the Saddle puts entertainment at its heart
Calling the tune: the Saddle puts entertainment at its heart
The Saddle is a pub like no other. It’s an outstanding site passionate about its customers, staff and artists it hosts, and rock ‘n’ roll is at its heart.

From guitar necks used to pull pints to symbol-lights and band posters that deck the walls, there’s a spectacular eye to detail in the site’s aesthetics. The pub also boasts nine rock-themed rooms spread over two floors overlooking the city.

Each features a replica guitar the original artist was known for playing with drum-sets acting as table-tops.

What’s more, the Saddle trades every part of its site. There’s a tattoo studio at the venue, as well as a studio room that acts as a performance and rehearsal space.

Musician support

These spaces were renovated during the pandemic, yet the grunge aesthetic is not forgotten, with chandeliers adorning the walls which are painted red and black.

However, the Saddle isn’t just for die-hard rock fans. As well as rock bands, the Saddle hosts jazz musicians, acoustic sessions and open mic nights.

Dolly Parton, Iron Maiden and Metallica tributes have all been hosted at the venue, with original, local, national and international musicians all hosted at the site.

The pub supports 800+ musicians each year. Performances are free, and musicians are invited to stay overnight at the venue – so the pub in this way supports both the artists, and the local community through making the events accessible.

Marketing info

The staff really push the marketing of the entertainment offering to new heights. ‘The Saddle’ merch can be purchased from the bar, and events are marketed on well-designed flyers.

The pub has also released a promotional CD of artists that have performed there to market the bands as well as the venue. The glowing ‘Saddle’ sign features in all videos and pictures of gigs that the staff post to Instagram, TikTok and livestream on Facebook.

Whether you’re popping in for a pint, or staying the night, you can be sure you’re in for a unique, cool and exciting experience like no other. It’s a venue that shines in the cathedral city, and stands out as the best pub for entertainment in Great Britain.

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