What it's like
The Lock Keeper is a large canalside pub on Canal Side near Frodsham Street, with a big outdoor area, pub food, dogs, families, sport, music and late opening.
The Lock Keeper makes most sense when the canal is part of the plan. The outdoor space, raised deck and waterside position do the heavy lifting, especially in decent weather.
Food is useful rather than destination-level: pizzas, sandwiches and pub basics. Treat it as a place for a relaxed group stop, dog-walk pint or sunny canal drink, not the restaurant you book to impress a food-focused visitor.
Worth knowing
The Lock Keeper is a strong outdoor and group option, not a precision food recommendation. When the canal terrace is in play, it earns its place. When the weather is miserable and the group wants careful cooking, Chester has better answers.
Plan your visit
- Address
- 1 Canal Side, Frodsham Street, Chester CH1 3LH.
- Hours
- Current listed hours are Monday-Thursday 11:00-00:30, Friday-Saturday 11:00-02:00 and Sunday 11:00-00:30. Check direct around events and bank holidays.
- Food
- Pub food, including pizzas and sandwiches, with takeaway also listed.
- What to order
- Use it for a pint, cocktails if that is your table, pizza, sandwiches or simple pub food outside by the canal.
- Outdoor seating
- This is the point: a large canalside outdoor area and raised deck are part of the offer.
- Dogs
- Dog-friendly.
- Kids
- Family-friendly, with enough space to make daytime use practical.
- Entertainment
- Live sport and live music are listed, and the room can be noisier on event nights.
- Access
- Wheelchair access is listed. Check direct for the best route, terrace access and toilets if those details matter.
- Price feel
- ££. Paying partly for space and waterside position.
How to use it
- Go in decent weather if the outdoor area is the main draw.
- Book for groups or food at obvious peak times.
- Use it as part of a canal-side run with The Old Harker's Arms, The Cornerhouse or the station route.
- Check event listings if you want quiet rather than sport, music or a busier evening crowd.
What's on and practical notes
Live sport and music can shift the pub from casual canalside stop to louder night out. Check current listings before promising a quiet table.
No checked TTDC event listings for this place right now. Check its own listings before building a visit around an event.
Nearby plan
Nearby pubs and bars
Nearby attractions
- Chester Station
- Chester City Walls
- Chester Cathedral
- Chester Market
FAQ
Is The Lock Keeper by the canal?
Yes. It sits on Canal Side near Frodsham Street.
Does The Lock Keeper have outdoor seating?
Yes. Outdoor space is one of the main reasons to go.
Is The Lock Keeper dog-friendly?
Yes. It is listed as pet-friendly.
Does The Lock Keeper serve food?
Yes. Expect pub food such as pizzas and sandwiches rather than formal dining.
Is The Lock Keeper good for families?
Yes, especially during the day and for casual food or drinks by the canal.
Nearby alternatives and add-ons.
Oddfellows Arms Oddfellows Arms is a Frodsham Street pub, useful for sports, a pint, pub food and a straightforward city-centre drink. 
slowboat ltd Slow Boat is a Frodsham Street Chinese restaurant and takeaway, useful for group dinner, banquet-style ordering and loose timings. 
Chester Sightseeing Bus Tour Chester Sightseeing Bus Tour is the seasonal city loop from the station and centre, useful for first-timers, family plans and low-walk days.