Independent shops, restaurants, bars and live music, tucked behind Northgate Street, away from the chains and the ordinary.
Rufus Court is one of Chester's most loved hidden corners: a Civic Trust Award-winning courtyard nestled inside the city walls, just off Northgate Street.
No chains. No corporate logos. Just good food, proper drinks, live music, independent shops, working studios and talented people who care about what they do. Come for lunch. Stay for the evening. Come back at the weekend.
Sixteen independent businesses. All worth knowing about. Read our story →
Every business in Rufus Court is independent, chosen because it has genuine character. Eat, drink, browse, pick up a piece of art, get a haircut. Explore our community of businesses below:
Chester's independent home for live music, comedy and theatre.
Alexander's Live is a long-established independent live entertainment venue in the heart of Chester's Rufus Court. We host an eclectic programme of live music, comedy, dance, spoken word and special events, bringing artists and audiences together in a friendly, intimate setting.
Upcoming shows →
Spanish tapas and wine, done with conviction.
Inspired by the lively, bustling atmosphere of our favourite tapas bars across Spain. Our focus is on simplicity and informality as well as amazing food and drink. Simply put, Porta is the kind of place to relax in – unpretentious and comfortable with good music, beer, wine and food.
Visit Porta →European tapas and cocktails in a cosy setting.
A concept of tapas where the taste of the tradition meets the twist of GreenHouse. With a wide selection of creative and unique vegetarian offering and plenty of vegan options on top of meat and fish plates everyone will find a piece of culinary heaven.
Visit The GreenHouse →Hearty comfort food made with quality produce.
Opened in 2025 and already a neighbourhood staple — Best Newcomer at the Taste Cheshire Awards just four months after opening. Honest, hearty British cooking made with local produce. The kind of place that makes you feel genuinely well looked after.
Visit Bread & Butter →Italian street food and a proper deli counter.
Fresh pasta, Italian street food and a deli that rewards slow browsing. Pronto is the kind of place that turns a quick lunch into a proper lunch — and all the better for it.
Proper comfort, on the city walls.
A women-owned café that does exactly what its name promises. Coffee, cakes, breakfasts, sandwiches and homemade soups — with vegan and gluten-free options throughout. Dog-friendly, relaxed, and community-minded.
Follow on Instagram →Bringing comfort, connection and nourishment into your home.
Every loaf is handmade in Chester using traditional sourdough methods — no shortcuts, no additives, just time, care, and quality local ingredients. Each bake is crafted to order so you get bread that's fresh, flavoursome, and filled with heart.
Visit Sunsets & Sourdough →Exceptional coffee from a remarkable story.
Vlad and Albina came to Chester through the Homes for Ukraine scheme and opened High Coffee Bar in December 2023. Ukrainian coffee, freshly baked sweet treats, and one of the warmest welcomes in Chester. Five stars on TripAdvisor.
Follow on Instagram →Where stories, sounds and spirits intertwine in the heart of Chester.
Nestled within Chester's historic city walls, Books on the Walls is more than just a bookshop – we're a haven where stories come alive and individuals connect. Our carefully curated space brings together a perfect blend of contemporary culture and timeless traditions.
Visit Books on the Walls →Organic, recycled, made right here in Chester.
Junkbox is a lifestyle brand & more importantly a community... For music, boarding, travel & adventures. Whether you're hiking up mountains & through forests, beachy weekends surfing, or long days & nights in the back of a tour bus, we've got you!
Visit Junkbox →Finding inspiration in every turn.
Euphoric Arts is redefining what it means to experience art. We are more than a gallery — we are a hub of innovation, passion, and accessibility. Our vision is simple yet ambitious: to create progressive art experiences that merge the artwork with its environment, shaping spaces where creativity and community thrive.
Visit Euphoric Arts →Bespoke jewellery just for you.
Established in Chester for over 25 years, we have a wealth of experience producing exquisite designs, and handcrafting unique jewellery. From engagement rings to wedding bands, diamonds or pearls, at OC Jewellery we look to create something extra special just for you.
Creating a home-like haven to rediscover your unique beauty.
Reflect was created with the idea of being able to walk in and feel at home, comfortable and relaxed. An intimate personal salon, where all attention is on you and what we can create for your beauty goals.
Book at Reflect Beauty →
The artistry of hair meets personalised service in a vibrant atmosphere.
This Chester hair salon excels in a range of services, from stunning full head colours to elegant hair ups, ensuring every client leaves feeling revitalised and confident. With a commitment to quality and style, a visit here promises to transform not only your look but also your mood.
Book at NOVI Collective →
Professional custom tattoo and piercing studio in the heart of Chester.
Stigma Tattoo Studio is a high quality licensed tattoo and piercing studio based in Chester. We provide custom tattoo design across a wide range of styles and genres. We love what we do and are dedicated to creating the best artwork we can for our customers.
Visit Stigma Tattoo →From live music to painting evenings, baking classes to alfresco dining. There's always a reason to visit.
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Look for the archway on Northgate Street. Step through. And you're in.