Bondies Bar Revitalizes Ellesmere Port’s Social Scene with Craft Ales

A new pub in Ellesmere Port is transforming the local social landscape with its unique approach to craft beverages and community engagement. **Bondies Bar**, situated on Chester Road, has attracted attention since its opening four years ago, thanks to the vision of owners **Dave** and **Cath Thomas**. Their goal was to create a welcoming space that offers more than the standard fare found in typical pubs.

Dave, who has deep roots in Ellesmere Port, shared his motivation for opening the bar. “We’d never done anything like this before,” he explained. With his previous job coming to an end and larger pubs priced out of reach, Dave and Cath dedicated two years to finding the right location. They wanted to establish a venue that broke away from the traditional offerings of **Carling** and **Guinness**. “Everyone said that Ellesmere Port was crying out for something different. We just said, ‘Right, let’s do it,’” he recounted.

In contrast to larger establishments, Bondies has positioned itself as Ellesmere Port’s first micropub, focusing on craft and cask ales. This strategy has resonated with locals, many of whom previously traveled to Liverpool for quality beer. “People don’t have to get the train or bus to Liverpool for the best beer, because it’s here,” Dave affirmed.

Inside Bondies, patrons are greeted by a cozy, wood-paneled bar adorned with eclectic decorations, many contributed by regulars. There is seating for approximately sixty guests across two floors and a small beer garden. Cath highlighted how this decor reflects the community spirit, stating, “Nobody knew each other before we opened. Now everyone knows each other. It’s the art of chatting.”

The bar’s community focus extends beyond its walls. Both Dave and Cath refrain from drinking while working, allowing them to assist patrons in need. For instance, if a customer cannot secure a taxi home, they may receive a ride from the owners. This commitment to customer care is exemplified by **Paul**, an 86-year-old loyal patron who has a designated seat at the bar. A sign above his spot reads “Paul’s Place.” “When he doesn’t come in, we’re on the phone to him, asking if he’s alright,” Dave said.

The name “Bondies” pays homage to the area’s history. Once known as **Bondies Hill**, the location was named after **Joseph Bond**, a former landlord of the now-closed **Sportsman’s Arms**. Soon after Bondies opened, Joseph Bond’s granddaughter visited to express her gratitude, remarking, “My grandad would be so proud. He’d probably be in here drinking as well!”

In addition to its focus on beer, Bondies Bar hosts various events to foster community engagement. Once a month, pop-up food vendors set up shop, and the bar features quiz nights and live music. Dave emphasized the importance of these gatherings, saying, “I want people to be able to come here and have the best time of their lives. What we’ve got here is amazing.”

Bondies Bar has not only filled a gap in the market for quality craft ales but has also become a vital hub for social interaction in Ellesmere Port. As the bar continues to thrive, it exemplifies the power of local entrepreneurship and the impact of community-focused initiatives.