An intimate evening of dark tales and Chester’s ghostly past, nestled away on the Rows at Chapters Book Bar.

As the long winter nights settle over the city, we’re bringing together three of Chester’s most fascinating storytellers for one very special evening.

Hidden away on Watergate Row South, the intimate surroundings of Chapters Book Bar - an independent bookshop and wine bar - set the scene for an evening of dark history, ghostly encounters and stories you won’t hear anywhere else.

The line-up

Martin Webb - The Great Puppet Show Disaster

On 5 November 1772, a crowd gathered in Eaton’s Dancing Room, just off Watergate Street, to enjoy a satirical puppet show. Beneath their feet, in a grocer’s cellar, around 800 pounds of gunpowder was being stored - and partway through the performance, it exploded. Twenty-three people lost their lives, among them the puppeteer George Williams and his young family, and many more were injured, most of them young apprentices and working people. Martin has spent time researching this often-forgotten tragedy, and tonight he shares its story on the very street where it happened.

Maria Barnard - Ghosts of Browns

For 19 years, Maria worked as a senior sales advisor at Browns of Chester, the much-loved department store once known as “the Harrods of the North”. Few people know the building’s winding corridors and hidden corners quite like she does, and around the time the store closed, Maria captured rare behind-the-scenes footage of its historic interior. Tonight she shares the ghostly stories and strange happenings said to linger within its walls - a rare glimpse inside a Chester landmark from someone who knew it best.

Interval

Time to stretch your legs, top up your glass and browse the shelves. The bar will be open throughout, with a lovely wine list to choose from.

David Atkinson - Dark Chester

Local writer and tour guide David Atkinson rounds off the evening with a journey through 2,000 years of Chester’s darker side. From brutal entertainment in the Roman amphitheatre to public executions, plague and pestilence, David shares stories of the city’s streets, pubs and churches - including tales of ghosts, poltergeists, a rather spooky doll collection and an apparent visit from the devil himself. Whether you’re new to Chester or have known it all your life, prepare to see the city in a very different light.

Exclusive signed copies of David’s book will be available to buy on the night only - a perfect early Christmas gift for anyone who loves a good ghost story.

With three storytellers, one cosy corner of the Rows and a drink from the bar in hand, this is an evening to savour. Don’t miss it.

Cancellation Policy: We require at least 48 hours notice of cancellation of tickets to qualify for a refund. Due to costs incurred by Heritage Chester, less than 48 hours notice will make all tickets non-refundable. All ticket purchases include non-refundable service charges.

Description supplied by the event organiser.