The Dysart Arms Bunbury is a picture-perfect Cheshire country pub: a handsome red-brick inn opposite the church in Higher Bunbury, with log fires, low beams, a leafy beer garden and a reputation for great food, real ale and relaxed village charm. Whether you’re planning Sunday lunch, a dog-friendly country pub walk, or a cosy evening meal near Tarporley, this guide covers everything you need to know before you visit.
Where is Dysart Arms Bunbury? Location & How to Get There
The Dysart Arms sits in the older part of Bunbury village (often called Higher Bunbury), close to St Boniface’s Church and surrounded by pretty cottages and open countryside.
Address:
The Dysart Arms, Bowes Gate Road, Bunbury, Near Tarporley, Cheshire, CW6 9PH
Getting to Dysart Arms Bunbury from Chester, Nantwich & Tarporley
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From Chester (approx. 25–30 mins): Follow the A41 towards Whitchurch, then pick up local roads via Tarporley or Beeston towards Bunbury.
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From Nantwich (approx. 15–20 mins): Take the A51 towards Tarporley and turn off for Bunbury.
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From Tarporley (approx. 10 mins): Short drive via A49/A51 and local lanes directly into Bunbury village.
Public transport is limited in rural Cheshire, so most visitors arrive by car, taxi or on foot/bike as part of a countryside walk.
Dysart Arms Bunbury Opening Times & Food Service Hours
Before you set off, it’s useful to know when the pub is open and when the kitchen serves food.
According to WhatPub and recent listings, typical opening hours are:
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Monday – Saturday: 10:00am – 11:00pm
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Sunday: 10:00am – 10:30pm
Food / meal times:
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Monday – Saturday: 10:00am – 9:00pm
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Sunday: 10:00am – 8:00pm
Hours can change on bank holidays or for special events, so it’s always best to double-check the latest times on the official Dysart Arms website or by calling the pub directly before you travel.
Dysart Arms Bunbury Menu – Fresh, Seasonal Pub Food
The Dysart Arms is part of the Brunning & Price group, known for characterful pubs that focus on fresh, seasonal dishes and proper cask ales.
On the daily menu you can typically expect:
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Comforting pub classics – think fish and chips, burgers, pies and hearty mains
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More creative seasonal dishes using local produce
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Vegetarian and vegan options
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A dedicated children’s menu and puddings menu
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A separate Sunday menu with traditional roasts
The pub highlights that its menus are written daily by the chefs, reflecting what’s in season and available, so there’s usually something new to try if you’re a regular.
Dysart Arms Bunbury Sunday Lunch
Reviews consistently praise the Sunday roast at the Dysart Arms for generous portions, well-cooked meats and proper gravy – with Yorkshire puds that taste homemade rather than mass-produced. Expect:
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Roast beef, pork or lamb (choices vary week to week)
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Crispy roast potatoes and seasonal veg
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Rich gravy and classic accompaniments
If you’re planning a Sunday lunch, it’s wise to book a table in advance – especially at peak times between 12pm and 3pm.
Dysart Arms Bunbury Drinks, Real Ales & Whisky
The pub’s bar sits at the heart of the building and is known for:
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A rotating line-up of locally brewed real ales, often including breweries such as Mobberley, Weetwood and Salopian
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A broad whisky selection and a well-balanced wine list
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Classic pub favourites, lagers, ciders and soft drinks
For ale lovers searching “real ale pubs near Bunbury” or “best cask ale country pubs in Cheshire”, the Dysart Arms regularly features in recommendation lists and gets strong praise from CAMRA and online reviewers.
Atmosphere & Interior – Cosy Country Pub Vibes
Step inside and you’ll find a warren of linked rooms with original features, timber beams and log fires that make it especially cosy in autumn and winter.
Expect:
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Characterful nooks and crannies rather than one big open space
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A library-style dining room in classic Brunning & Price fashion
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Mix of dining tables and more casual bar areas
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Relaxed, village-pub atmosphere that’s welcoming but not rowdy
It’s popular with locals, walkers, families and guests staying at nearby countryside hotels or at places like Peckforton Castle.
If you’re after a pub with atmosphere near Tarporley, this “atmospheric old pub” is regularly described as a great place to drop by for nice food, a drink and a chat.
Dysart Arms Bunbury Beer Garden & Outdoor Seating
On sunny days, the Dysart Arms beer garden is a major draw.
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Attractive, well-kept gardens and outdoor seating
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Views across the village and surrounding countryside
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Ideal for alfresco drinks, summer lunches and early-evening bites
Guide sites note that the garden is one of the pub’s standout features, with a canopied area that’s especially popular in warmer months.
Is Dysart Arms Bunbury Dog Friendly?
Yes – the Dysart Arms is a dog-friendly pub and is often recommended as one of the best dog-friendly country pubs in Cheshire.
According to the pub’s own information:
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Well-behaved dogs on leads are welcome, typically in the bar areas and garden, but not in the main dining areas.
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Water bowls and often treats are available, and staff are used to walkers arriving with muddy boots and four-legged friends.
If you’re visiting specifically with a dog, mention this when you book so you can be seated in one of the dog-friendly sections.
Accessibility, Families & Practical Info
Wheelchair Access at Dysart Arms Bunbury
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There is a small step up into the pub, but the team are happy to help with access, and there is a disabled loo on site.
Because the building is old and full of character, some areas are more snug than others, so it’s worth mentioning any specific access needs when booking.
Children, Highchairs & Prams
The Dysart Arms is primarily an adult-focused pub but well-behaved children are welcome, especially during the daytime.
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There are changing facilities and a few booster seats.
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Because of the tight layout of some rooms, the pub asks that prams and pushchairs are not brought inside to avoid congestion.
For families searching “child friendly pubs near Tarporley” it’s a good option, especially if your children are older or used to relaxed dining environments.
Parking at Dysart Arms Bunbury
Parking is available but space is limited, which is one of the only drawbacks frequently mentioned.
Top tips:
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Arrive early at peak times (Sunday lunchtime, sunny weekends, bank holidays).
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Be prepared to park carefully and considerately on nearby lanes if the car park is full – always respecting residents and signage.
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If you’re walking from Bunbury village or staying locally, consider leaving the car behind entirely.
Dysart Arms Bunbury Walks – Pub Walks from the Door
If you’re looking for walks from the Dysart Arms, you’re in luck. The pub works with AllTrails, who have created a circular pub walk starting and finishing at the door, taking in the surrounding Cheshire countryside.
Typical highlights include:
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Views over rolling fields and hedgerows
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Sections near Bunbury Locks on the Shropshire Union Canal (if you extend your route)
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Quiet lanes and footpaths ideal for dogs and families used to walking
AllTrails provide online route details, a downloadable PDF and app access, making it easy to follow on your phone.
Special Events & What’s On at Dysart Arms Bunbury
As a Brunning & Price pub, the Dysart Arms often hosts themed events and seasonal nights, which might include:
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Beaujolais Nouveau evenings (a regular feature in their “What’s On” calendar)
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New Year’s Eve celebrations with set menus and live music or special dishes
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Beer festivals or tasting nights from time to time
Check the What’s On page on their website or keep an eye on their Facebook and Instagram for the latest news, menus and event announcements.
Do You Need to Book a Table at Dysart Arms Bunbury?
Because the Dysart Arms is a highly rated and much-loved pub, it can get busy – particularly:
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Friday and Saturday evenings
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Sunday lunchtime
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Bank holidays and special events
Online reviews mention that the pub can sometimes fit walk-ins, but it’s common advice to book ahead, especially if you’re travelling from further afield or coming as a group.
You can usually book by:
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Phone (the number is listed clearly on their website)
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Online booking link (when available)
Reviews & Reputation – Why People Love Dysart Arms Bunbury
Independent reviews from sites like TripAdvisor, Restaurant Guru, Harden’s and others highlight a consistent set of themes:
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Charming, atmospheric building with classic country pub decor
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Friendly, professional staff who create a relaxed atmosphere
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Good quality food with a wide choice and generous portions
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Excellent Sunday roasts that keep people coming back
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Dog-friendly and family-friendly in the right areas
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Great location for combining a pub visit with walks in the Cheshire countryside
Ratings regularly hover around 4.4–4.7 out of 5 on major platforms, which is impressive given the volume of reviews.
Staying Near Dysart Arms Bunbury
If you’re making a weekend of it, Bunbury is well-placed between Chester, Tarporley and Nantwich, with lots of accommodation nearby, from cosy B&Bs in the village to country hotels and inns around Peckforton, Burwardsley and Tattenhall.
Popular options in the wider area include:
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Country inns and hotels on the Sandstone Trail
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Boutique stays near Tarporley
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Rural holiday cottages across Cheshire
Planning an itinerary with Cheshire countryside walks + a meal at the Dysart Arms is a great way to enjoy a short break close to Chester.
