Memory of Chester
“I lived in Chester for 9 months as an international student. It was great;
the city is not big and you get to know it pretty well after while. I loved
the walks around the city walls and next to the meadows. The rows are
beautiful and there are good places to go out, eat, and drink…It’s also so
easy to visit Liverpool and Manchester from here.”
Baluka, Helsinki
Chester
Encircled by a glorious 2-mile ring of Roman and medieval walls, Chester is a rare and truly magical blend of the ancient and traditional with modern cosmopolitan chic. Situated on the River Dee, close to the Welsh border, Chester is home to 2,000 years of history and one of Britain’s Heritage Cities. Step back in time amid pristine Georgian and Victorian architecture, shop in the unique medieval two-tier galleries called the Rows and enjoy the city's classy café culture.
Culture and heritage
As the most complete walled city in Britain, Chester is one of Britain’s Heritage Cities. The surviving Roman grid pattern of streets are so compact that you can get around all the city's landmarks on foot, feasting your eyes on an amazing architectural panorama of the past. Stroll the Roman walls, studded with historic towers and gates, then drop into the Roman Amphitheatre – scene of a major archaeological project.
Attractions
With 2,000 years of history, Chester isn’t short of great attractions. Marvel at Chester Cathedral, located in the heart of the city and discover a fascinating history spanning a thousand years. Other attractions include the beautiful River Dee, the Grosvenor and Cheshire Military Museums, the beautiful Grosvenor Park and the city’s famous Roodee Racecourse.
Food and drink
Chester offers a mouth-watering menu of delicious cuisine, whatever your taste or budget. Quality local produce is available across the county at many farmers markets, butchers, bakers and fishmongers and used in many of the pubs and restaurants - where you can expect great food and superb service.
Shopping
Chester‘s main shopping area is within the beautiful historic walled city. The 2-tiered galleries of shops in “The Rows” are packed with independent boutiques and high-street stores. And if that’s not enough, head to Cheshire Oaks, the UK’s largest designer outlet village just 10 miles from the city centre.
Buy before you fly
To make your trip to Chester easier, you can buy tickets to attractions, travel passes, and much more at our online shop, and avoid the queues. The BritRail GB Flexi Pass allows you to explore the country at your own pace, and the Great British Heritage Pass (www.visitbritaindirect.com/en-GB/detail.aspx?ProductCode=Tp1) gives you free entry to nearly 600 of Britain’s finest historic houses, gardens and monuments. For more great offers, go to VisitBritain Direct (www.visitbritaindirect.com).