A popular bar in Chelmsford is set to open a brand new beer garden – but it comes with an intriguing twist. Independent taproom Radio City Social operates from within the arches underneath Chelmsford railway station.
They already occupy two units within the arches, but they are now opening up a third as a new beer garden area. It comes complete with artificial grass and hand-crafted wooden benches and will be open from Friday night (April 18).
The bar is hosting an opening party with live acoustic music from local performers. They say it’ll be the first time the third arch has been open to the public in decades.
READ MORE: Essex crossroads used by thousands every day named after famous pub
ALSO READ: Essex Police officers under investigation over contact with young mum murdered by ‘monster’
Owner Dan Harvey, a former City worker who stopped his career to pursue a love of craft beer and community building, opened the bar in 2022. The bar and brewery offers guests a choice of 18 beers on tap, craft ciders, locally-made spirits, wine, and no/low alcohol options.
The extra arch will add around 70 seats to the bar’s capacity. They plan to host silent discos, beer festivals and sports fixtures while also being available to rent.
Dan Harvey said: “When we opened the bar, one of the main aims was to build community, and offer a space that’s different and welcoming to Chelmsford. The beer garden is going to be mega. It’s bringing something new to the bar, and to the arches under Chelmsford station.
“Our community of regulars is really excited to have this space for the summer – we’ve got some fantastic events lined up to get the best out of the garden. Everyone is welcome at the opening party and beyond, so come on down and see what’s going on.
“I’m really proud of everything we’ve achieved with the bar and with the brewery, which is growing all the time despite a really challenging time for the hospitality and brewing industries. I won’t lie, it’s not been easy to go from a steady 9-to-5 in the City to starting brewing before dawn, then going on to cover a late shift at the bar. But I wouldn’t swap it for anything.
“This is just the beginning – we have big plans for the future. We love Chelmsford, and being based here is a huge source pride for the bar, the brewery, and for me. The beer and live music scene in the city is growing and growing, and it’s great to be an integral part of that.”
