written by Izzy Grey
Chester’s Indie Street welcomes a brand-new resident this November. Providence Gin’s guests will be stepping back in time to enjoy a totally unique experience in a building steeped in history and heritage.
Originally constructed in the 13th century, the present God’s Providence House was built in 1652. The name is reputed to come from it being the only house to have escaped the outbreak of plague in 1647–48 which killed 2,000 people in the city.
It is said that the Victorians drank more gin than water as it provided relief from the perpetual cold, and was a blessed escape from the brutal drudgery of life in the slums and workhouses.
Today, gin is enjoyed as the spirit of choice by many drink connoisseurs, and Providence Gin will combine the history of the Victorian era with an olde worlde vibe and interior, and a true celebration of the spirit with 500 different gins on offer, and a special, dedicated section for local distillers. They have even created their very own label in collaboration with award-winning and specialist maker Three Wrens Gin.
The Providence Gin bar will also serve some great wines, many of them natural (which means a lower abv% and zero impact on the environment), and some really good craft beers including their very own Providence Pils, an English malt brewed in a Bavarian style.
Additionally, the venue will feature a tasting room where guests will be invited to a range of gin and spirit tasting experiences, and the space can also be booked for private events and corporate entertaining. Grazing boards with locally sourced produce will be served including Cheshire cheeses, artisan breads baked within the city walls and cured meats from Chester-based suppliers.
Owner Robin Evans said ‘I am so excited to bring Providence Gin to Chester as it will celebrate the incredible history and heritage of the city. There are already so many great quality bars, restaurants and experiences here – and it is my hope that we will complement the city’s rich independent and diverse hospitality sector. I have already met some amazing people, and am overwhelmed by the love and support from the people of Chester. We are fully committed to the Shop Local Chester movement, and we will be working hard to continually improve our sustainability practices.’
You can purchase a unique Gin Tasting Experience from this week, either for yourself or as a special gift for friends, family or workmates. The £30 package includes a signature gin cocktail on arrival, the three gin tasting paddle (choice from 100 gins) and a delicious, locally produced grazing board. There’s also a special Christmas Gin Experience Package at £40. Email the team at [email protected] to purchase.
Providence Gin will open on Watergate Street near the end of November. Watch this space for details.
