Albion Inn

The home fires still burn on winter nights at this living memorial to the Great War of 1914-18. With its splendid cast-iron fireplaces and original three-room layout, the pub is adorned with sepia photographs and prints, whilst leather sofas, enamelled advertisements and vintage artefacts from the World War 1 complete the period look. The lounge wallpaper was designed on the first day of the Great War, and other objects of interest include a 1928 Steck Duo Art player piano, which still performs on occasions. The Albion is the creation of Michael Mercer, who has run Chester's last Victorian street corner pub in the shadow of the city's Roman wall for over 40 years. 'Trench rations' are locally and regionally sourced wherever possible. Lunchtime choices include great British butties, both club and doorstep in concept, while Staffordshire oatcakes with various fillings, including vegetarian options, make for a lighter snack. Hot dishes range from boiled gammon and pease pudding served with parsley sauce; Penrith Cumberland sausages with apple sauce, caramelised onions and gravy; McConichy's corned beef hash with pickled red cabbage; to lamb's liver, bacon and onions in a rich cider gravy; or fish pie with a mashed potato and Parmesan cheese topping served with a green salad. Four cask ales are on tap, backed up by bottled organic cider from Westons, a good range of malts, and a decent list of New World wines. Please note that - in true wartime spirit - this is an adults-only pub.