The Lord Mayor of Chester invites residents to Chester Town Hall for the Samaritans Brew

The Lord Mayor of Chester, Councillor Sherin Akhtar is supporting the Samaritans Brew Monday initiative and is inviting residents to Chester Town Hall on Monday 19th January, from 1pm to 4pm, for a warm drink, friendly conversation, and an opportunity to explore one of the city’s most historic civic buildings.

The event is free to attend, with donations to the Samaritans welcomed.

Visitors will be welcomed into the Town Hall to enjoy a complimentary cup of tea, meet neighbours, volunteers, and civic representatives, and take part in relaxed conversations designed to encourage connection during the winter months. Guests will also have the chance to explore the Town Hall’s Victorian Gothic architecture, view the council chamber and civic memorabilia, learn about notable moments in Chester’s history, and discover more about the traditions and responsibilities of the Lord Mayor’s office.

Staff and volunteers will be on hand throughout the afternoon to answer questions, share stories and ensure everyone feels at home in addition to local wellbeing and mental health organisations talking to people about the services they offer and future events.

The Lord Mayor of Chester said: “Brew Monday is about reminding ourselves that a simple chat over a cup of tea can make a world of difference. I’m delighted to welcome residents into the Town Hall - a place filled with history, stories, and civic pride, to enjoy a cuppa, meet new people, and celebrate the spirit of Chester.”

Chester Town Hall has served as the civic heart of the city since the 19th century, and opening its doors for Brew Monday offers residents a unique opportunity to experience its heritage in an informal and welcoming setting. The event also reflects the Lord Mayor’s Civic Theme, ‘Pride in Place’, by bringing people together in a shared civic space and highlighting the city’s distinctive identity.

Visitors will be invited to:

• Enjoy a complimentary cup of tea (or two)
• Have a friendly natter with neighbours, volunteers, and civic representatives
• Explore parts of the historic Chester Town Hall, including its architecture, council chamber, and civic memorabilia
• Learn about notable moments in Chester’s local history
• Discover more about the Lord Mayor’s civic role, traditions, and responsibilities over the centuries

The Lord Mayor added:

“Chester’s strength has always been its people, compassionate, resilient, and proud of their city. Brew Monday is a chance to come together, look after one another, and celebrate the stories that shape who we are.”

Event Details:

Brew Monday (19 January 2026)
Chester Town Hall
1pm to 4pm
Free entry everyone welcome.

Donations to the Samaritans are welcome.

To book history talk at 2pm:  

https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/brew-monday-at-chester-town-hall-tickets-1979973701641?utm-campaign=social&utm-content=attendeeshare&utm-medium=discovery&utm-term=listing&utm-source=cp&aff=ebdsshcopyurl