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11-13 April 2025
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116, Foregate Street, Chester, Chester, CH1 2HH
This cosy, authentic local retains its original two-bar layout and many old fittings. No TV, no games machines: good beer, good conversation and old pub games are the order of the day. Try your hand at ringing the bull. At the back is a small walled garden with a covered heated area complete with a piano and cricket memorabilia. Dogs welcome. "HQ" of Grantchester Cricket Club.
Long term regular, Toby Joseph, having purchased it from a pubco, carried out some essential repairs and sympathetic redecoration that retains the pub's charm. Refurbishments include B&B accommodation and new toilets, allowing a modest expansion of the bar area. The garden has also been extended with additional terrace and seating.
Real ales are from Adnam's, Woodforde's, Elgood's and other East Anglian brewers, served from four hand pumps. Adnam's dry-hopped larger is the first lager to be available here for many years. Cranes local cider is on draught. Soup, sandwiches and hearty, home-cooked food available lunch and evening. Children welcome. Credit cards accepted.
Historic Interest
Built in 1893 over the cellar of the 1767 original that was lost in a fire. It is listed on the National Inventory as having a historic pub interior of regional importance. The pub name is believed to commemorate the landing of a hot air balloon nearby in 1785. This being celebrated on pictures inside the pub.
Two star - A pub interior of very special national historic interest
Listed status: Not listed
The Blue Ball (whose name commemorates a balloon flight) is a small village local rebuilt in 1893. The two-bar layout is intact although the internal door has been removed. The quarter circle bar counter and bar back appear to be of pre-war date as does the panelling with bench seating in the tiny bar on the right, which is on a slightly higher level. In the bar on the left is the rare pub game of Ringing The Bull - see if you can swing the metal ring and get it to land on the hook on the wall.
This Pub serves 2 changing beers and 2 regular beers.
Blue Ball Inn, Grantchester
Source: Regional
Lunchtime Meals
Evening Meals
Garden
Family Friendly
Dog Friendly
Accommodation
Games
Real Fire
Separate Bar
Smoking
Wi Fi
Real Ale
Real Heritage Pub
Quiet
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