Chester
Why we love Chester
Chester’s charm is captivating and unmissable, from City Walls oozing with history and tales of Romans, to seeing the animal kingdom at Chester Zoo. Walk in the footsteps of fierce gladiators or follow the maze of the 700-year-old Rows for shopping delights. Beyond the city boundaries, tuck into uniquely local Cheshire produce and stand tall on ancient fortresses. Whether you’re a history buff, adventure lover or food aficionado, Chester and Cheshire have got something for you.
Chester Market
Tuck into a celebration of local produce and indie traders as you explore this foodie, vintage and gift market. Pick up a coffee, grab a bite to eat and enjoy the fresh and vibrant atmosphere. Keep an eye out for bustling events filling the market, including artisan products at the makers market, live music and demonstrations.
Storyhouse
A mix of the arts, Storyhouse brings a theatre, cinema, city library and restaurant to Chester’s cultural scene. Located in Chester’s city centre, visit now for comedy shows, on stage performances and new film screenings.
Chester Cathedral
A centrepiece of the city, the ancient abbey stands proud in Chester. Book onto a Tower Tour to climb up the central tower and soar over the city, county and across the Wales. Or choose the likes of the Stained-Glass Tour and Gothic Architecture Tour to get insight into the build and history of the cathedral.
Things to do in Chester
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Featured things to do
Paddle power on the River Dee
See Chester from the water as you paddle through the middle of the city. Get your blood pumping with the White Water sessions, or opt for the peaceful Nature Spotting tour, taking you upstream.
Take to the water with Dee River Kayaking
Glide on the river
See the city from a different perspective as you cruise down the River Dee on a sightseeing boat tour. For quick cruise, hop aboard the half an hour tour on the Lady Diana boat, or opt for the relaxed two-hour journey for insight into the city’s Roman, Medieval and Industrial heritage.
Go on a river cruise
Do it like the Romans did
Do you have what it takes to be a Roman in Chester? Step into the world of the famous gladiators at the Deva Roman Discovery Centre and learn all about their history, take a seat at the amphitheatre and spot genuine artefacts.
Visit the Deva Roman Discovery Centre
Visit Grosvenor Museum and Chester Amphitheatre
Filled with archaeological finds, fossils and Roman memorial stones, the Grosvenor Museum holds secrets than span over thousands of years. Discover artefacts from the excavations of Britain’s largest Roman Amphitheatre, that’s located down the road from the museum. Look out for outdoor events and theatre productions in the grounds of Chester Amphitheatre, too.
Visit Grosvenor MuseumPlaces to stay in Chester
City Centre
Surround yourself in the hustle and bustle of the city with a stay in the centre. With accommodation offerings that include well-known hotel chains, guest houses and self-catering option, you won’t be stuck for choice on where to rest your head.
Suburbs
Explore the fringes of the city for countryside infused stays. From on-site spas to cheaper hotel offerings, staying on the edges of Chester is a great option for those on a budget or those seeking a bit more space.
Rural Cheshire
Cheshire is a hotpot for quaint villages and stunning scenery, plus it’s packed with historical gems. Escape into the county for cottage stays, grand hotels and spas, alongside camping and glamping options.
Explore nearby
Getting to Chester
Situated in the north west of England, close to Welsh border, Chester is easily accessible by air, rail, car or bus. Liverpool John Lennon and Manchester International Airport serve the city, with trains to Manchester Airport running hourly to Chester. By rail, Chester is a two-hour journey from London Euston, while Manchester and Liverpool are less than one hour away. Direct rail services also run from Birmingham, Cardiff and Edinburgh.
Getting around
By foot
A small but mighty city that’s best explored by foot. Follow the Victorian Chester Trail for a route around the city streets and into history.
By bike
Pick up a bike from Chester Cycle Hire to explore the city on two wheels. Follow the Millennium Greenway Nation Cycling Network route for a traffic free cycle.
By bus
Chester has an extensive public bus network. Connections can take you to Chester Zoo, Cheshire Oaks Designer Outlet, Liverpool and into Wales.
Want to know more?
Head to Visit Chester and Cheshire for insider tips from those in the know.