Thousands of pounds has been raised for a popular Chester city centre pub which was hit by a freak fire in the early hours of Sunday, October 6.

A major response by emergency services came as a result of the fire at the Cavern of the Curious Gnome, which damaged the cooling systems and cellar, at about 3.20am on Sunday.

Two fire engines, plus the aerial ladder platform from Chester, one fire engine from Ellesmere Port, one fire engine from Congleton, the high-volume water pump from Powey Lane, and two fire engines from Deeside were all called to the scene. Crews extinguished the fire and cleared smoke from neighbouring properties where smoke alarms had activated, while bridge street was closed during the incident.

Fortunately, no-one was injured, and a fire investigator has been called to determine what started the blaze.

But the incident has left the Cavern of the Curious Gnome, which serves a variety of Belgian beer, German lager and British craft ale as well as food, temporarily closed. The premises is also looking to open a new adjacent shop on Bridge Street, called Gnome and Away, in the near future.

To help out the fellow independent Chester business, co-owner of Foregate Street's That Beer Place Lisa Lord has set up a funding page where people can donate to help the owners of The Cavern of the Curious Gnome get back on their feet and reopen as soon as possible.

Writing on the funding page, Lisa said: "For those who know and love the Gnome, it’s a brilliant two-floor venue here in Chester. Paysan, the wine bar on the ground floor, is a great spot for a glass of wine, while upstairs, The Cavern of The Curious Gnome serves up some of the best beers around. It’s a beloved local spot, and we know how much it means to everyone who visits.

"The fire couldn’t have come at a worse time. They’ve just taken on a new shop next door and poured a lot of money into fitting it out, so their cash flow is tight. Now they’re facing the tough challenge of rebuilding and reopening just when things were starting to come together.

"We’re asking for donations to help them get back on their feet. Every contribution will go directly to helping them repair the damage and reopen as soon as possible. Whether it’s covering the costs of repairs, supporting their team, or simply helping them get back to doing what they do best, your donation will make a huge difference.

"As mates in Chester’s drinks scene, we want to see them back up and thriving. Please join us in supporting The Cavern of The Curious Gnome through this tough time. Every little bit helps, and we know they’ll be incredibly grateful for your support."

Within 24 hours of the funding page being activated, more than £3,000 has already been raised.

While The Cavern of the Curious Gnome is temporarily out of action, wine bar Paysan – located on the floor below, above Cinderbox Coffee – is able to stay open as normal.

Last month we reported The Cavern of the Curious Gnome has been featured in CAMRA's Good Beer Guide 2025, while last week it was confirmed That Beer Place was named National Cider and Perry Pub of the Year 2024 by CAMRA.