If you’re on the hunt for the best things to do in Chester, this article will guide you to some of the finest spots where you can appreciate the stunning black-and-white architecture, explore historic Chester Cathedral, and visit fascinating museums.
You’ll also discover beautiful parks and remarkable Roman landmarks that add to the city’s charm. Chester, located in Cheshire, is a fantastic destination in England, whether you’re interested in leisurely strolls along the city walls or indulging in a bit of shopping.
I have had the pleasure of visiting Chester several times, and my initial thought was that it resembles a more compact version of London. Nestled alongside a river Dee, Chester boasts numerous bridges, with the Queens Park Bridge standing out as a striking reminder of its larger counterpart in the capital. The charm of this town is enhanced by its lively atmosphere, making it a delightful place to explore.
Many people believe it is the most beautiful town in England. Its picturesque architecture, rich history, and welcoming community contribute to its appeal. Each visit reveals new facets of this charming town, making it a destination that continues to enchant and inspire.
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How to Get to Chester?
🚗💨 BY CAR
📍 Little Roodee Car Park: Grosvenor Rd, Chester CH1 1SL
When planning a trip to Chester by car, you’ll find a variety of parking options available throughout the city. After exploring several facilities, I can recommend the Little Roodee Car Park as one of the top choices.
Although it may seem a bit distant from the heart of the city, the walk to Eastgate Clock is only 12 minutes. This short stroll allows you to enjoy the sights along the way, including notable landmarks such as Chester Castle, the Cheshire Military Museum, and the Grosvenor Museum, as well as quirky attractions like Sick To Death.
The Little Roodee Car Park is conveniently located near Chester Racecourse, making it an ideal spot for those attending events. The car park is spacious, ensuring that you won’t have to worry about finding a spot for your vehicle. Additionally, it features amenities such as the Little Roodee Cafe, where you can grab a bite to eat or a refreshing drink, and has restroom facilities.
If you’re looking for additional parking options, you can visit the Cheshire West and Chester Council website for more information.
🚆 BY TRAIN
Traveling to Chester by train is quite convenient and offers several direct routes from major cities. If you’re starting your journey from Liverpool, you can hop on a direct train at Liverpool Lime Street, which will whisk you away to Chester in approximately 45 minutes. This makes it an ideal option for a quick day trip or a weekend getaway.
For those coming from Manchester, there are also direct trains available that take about 1 hour to reach Chester. Additionally, if you’re traveling from Birmingham, you can catch a direct train that will take around 2 hours, providing a comfortable ride to this picturesque city.
If you’re coming from
Where to Stay in Chester?
If you have a penchant for history and a desire for a more traditional experience, The Pied Bull is a hidden gem worth discovering. Housed in a building that dates back to 1155, this charming establishment offers a unique glimpse into Chester’s rich past. Staying in a hotel above a pub with its own microbrewery is an experience you must have in England. We have loved a similar hotel we visited near the Heights of Abraham.
If you’re planning a weekend escape to Chester, you can also consider booking a stay at the Holiday Inn Express, Chester Racecourse, an IHG Hotel. This convenient location places you just a short stroll away from the vibrant racecourse, making it an ideal choice for those looking to immerse themselves in the excitement of the horse races.
Alternatively, you might prefer the Crowne Plaza Chester, another IHG property, which boasts a luxurious indoor heated pool and a hot tub, perfect for unwinding after a day of exploration. For a truly exceptional experience, the Chester Grosvenor stands out as an award-winning 5-star hotel that offers a range of lavish amenities, including a herb sauna and a steam room.
TOP Things to Do in Chester
Chester Cathedral
Visiting Chester Cathedral, a remarkable Grade I listed building, is undoubtedly one of the highlights of any trip to Chester. This stunning cathedral has a rich history, with its construction spanning from the 10th century to the early 16th century.
For most of the year, entry to Chester Cathedral is free, making it accessible to everyone. However, during the summer months and the Christmas season, a small admission fee is charged, although children aged five and under can enter at no cost.
Chester Cathedral stands out as one of the most beautiful cathedrals in North-West England, alongside notable counterparts like Liverpool Cathedral and Manchester Cathedral. If you’re planning a visit to this region, be sure to include these magnificent structures in your itinerary.
One of the cathedral’s most intriguing aspects is its collection of wooden figures, including a whimsical representation of a figure drinking from an ale tankard—an unexpected sight in such a sacred space.
Built from New Red Sandstone, much like the cathedrals in Carlisle, Lichfield, and Worcester, Chester Cathedral has undergone extensive restoration, making it one of the most well-preserved cathedrals in England.
Eastgate Clock (Things to do in Chester)
One of Chester’s most iconic landmarks is undoubtedly the Eastgate Clock. This clock holds the distinction of being the second most photographed clock in England, following the famous Big Ben in London.
It’s easy to see why it captures so much attention; every time I find myself in Chester, I always walk towards this stunning timepiece. Nestled right in the center of town, the Eastgate Clock is a prominent feature that is nearly impossible to overlook.
On our most recent trip, we decided to take a different approach and venture up the staircase tucked away behind some buildings to get a closer look at the Eastgate Clock. The experience was truly rewarding, as we were treated to breathtaking views of Eastgate Street and Foregate Street below. These picturesque streets are adorned with the charming black-and-white architecture that Chester is renowned for, adding to the overall allure of the area.
Chester Racecourse (Things to do in Chester)
Chester Racecourse holds the prestigious title of being the oldest racecourse still in operation, as officially recognized by Guinness World Records. The history of horse racing at this venue stretches back to the early sixteenth century, making it a significant landmark in the world of equestrian sports. Additionally, it is believed to be the smallest racecourse of notable importance in England, which adds to its unique charm and character.
During our recent trip, we were fortunate enough to coincide our visit with a horse racing event, prompting us to get closer to Chester Racecourse. The racecourse is conveniently located adjacent to the historic city walls, which allows spectators to catch a glimpse of the races without any cost.
For those looking to immerse themselves fully in the racing experience, purchasing tickets is a worthwhile consideration. This grants access to both sides of the track, including the paddock area where you can see the horses up close.
Additionally, there are premium enclosures available that offer fantastic views of the action, ensuring that every moment of the race is enjoyed to the fullest. Whether you’re a seasoned racing fan or a curious newcomer, Chester Racecourse provides a delightful atmosphere for all.
Historic Places – Things to Do in Chester
Chester Town Hall
Chester Town Hall, a remarkable Grade II listed structure, was constructed between the years 1864 and 1869. This architectural gem showcases a nearly symmetrical design, featuring ten bays and presenting the Gothic Revival style.
Directly across from Chester Town Hall, you will find the charming Statue of Janya, known as the Baby Elephant. This delightful sculpture was a generous gift from Chester Zoo to the city and was installed in 2010. Crafted by the talented sculptress Annette Yarrow, the statue adds a magical touch to the area, inviting passersby to pause and appreciate its artistry and the story behind it.
While I haven’t had the opportunity to explore Chester Zoo myself, it certainly seems like a worthwhile addition to your itinerary when visiting Chester. Chester Zoo is known for its diverse range of animals, making it a fantastic destination for families and animal lovers.
Chester Castle (Things to do in Chester)
Chester Castle stands out as one of the most underrated attractions in Chester, tucked away in the city’s south-west corner. Many tourists tend to focus on the bustling central areas, often overlooking this historical treasure. Its somewhat hidden location means that those who do venture to the castle are often rewarded with a less crowded experience, allowing for a deeper appreciation of its rich history.
During our exploration of the castle, we were particularly impressed by Agricola Tower, which dates back to the 12th century. The first-floor chapel within the tower features remnants of wall paintings that date back to around 1240.
We encountered a knowledgeable guide in the chapel who shared insights about the remaining artwork, enriching our visit with stories and historical context that brought the space to life.
It was astonishing to discover that we were the first visitors of the day, highlighting just how overlooked this remarkable site is by the tourists. This experience underscored the fact that Chester Castle truly deserves far more recognition and exploration than it currently receives. It definietely should be on every visitor’s itinerary when exploring Chester.
St Johns Church Chester (Things to do in Chester)
One of the delightful surprises during our visit was St. John the Baptist’s Church in Chester. This remarkable church has its origins dating back to the late 7th century, established by the Anglo-Saxons. While the main entrance boasts an impressive façade that captures the eye, what truly impresses me are the eastern ruins of the church, which tell a story of their own.
These ruins are a true hidden treasure, nestled among the trees, making them somewhat elusive for those exploring Chester. The serene atmosphere surrounding the remnants adds to their charm, inviting visitors to pause and reflect on the history of the church.
Addleshaw Tower (Things to do in Chester)
While strolling towards Chester Cathedral, we came across a fascinating structure known as Addleshaw Tower. The tower’s slate-covered exterior gives it a robust appearance that immediately captures the eye.
Notably, it holds the distinction of being the first free-standing bell tower constructed by an English cathedral since the 15th century, and it has been recognized as a Grade II listed building, highlighting its historical significance.
Upon its completion, the design of Addleshaw Tower sparked quite a bit of debate among locals, earning it the playful nickname “Chester Rocket.” However, the enchanting sound of its bells is one of the aspects that visitors love Addleshaw Tower.
Black and White Architecture – Things to Do in Chester
Chester Cross
The Black-and-white Revival emerged as a notable architectural trend in the mid-19th century, characterized by its embrace of historical vernacular styles, particularly through the use of timber framing.
This style features a striking contrast where the wooden framework is typically painted in a deep black hue, while the panels nestled between the frames are adorned in a crisp white. A prime illustration of this architectural movement can be observed at Chester Cross, where the design principles come to life in a vibrant urban setting.
Chester Cross serves as a bustling intersection in the heart of Chester, where several key streets converge, including Watergate Street, Eastgate Street, Northgate Street, and Bridge Street. This junction is steeped in history, as the roads that make up Chester Cross were once the main thoroughfares during the time when Chester functioned as a Roman fortress.
Bridge Street (Things to do in Chester)
Strolling along Bridge Street, you’ll see one of Chester’s most recognizable landmarks, a stunning structure that dates back to 1888 and was built for the 1st Duke of Westminster. This remarkable building, which holds a Grade II listing, showcases the architectural brilliance of Thomas Lockwood, who designed it with great attention to detail. The building stretches across one bay on Bridge Street and extends for an additional bay along Eastgate Street, making it a prominent feature in the cityscape.
Northgate Street (Things to do in Chester)
The structures lining Northgate Street are characterized by a recessed ground floor that includes a charming covered walkway. The upper levels of these buildings are constructed with timber framing, adding a touch of traditional craftsmanship to the streetscape. As you gaze upward, you’ll be impressed by the intricate details that adorn the architecture, particularly the figures that embellish the columns and corners of the buildings.
Among these fascinating details, you’ll find carvings of figures dressed in Elizabethan attire, skillfully depicted as they play various musical instruments. Additionally, at the corner where both facades meet, two figures can be seen holding scrolls. These remarkable details invite exploration of Chester town.
Foregate Street & Frodsham Street
Close to the iconic Eastgate Clock, you’ll discover a vibrant array of contemporary shops located on the ground level, beautifully complemented by black and white architectural features on the upper floors. This area is a delightful blend of modern retail and classic design. If you’re in the mood for shopping, this location offers a variety of well-known retailers, including Marks and Spencer, River Island, and Primark.
The Nine House (Things to do in Chester)
The Nine Houses, located on Park Street in Chester, are a remarkable historical site, with only six of the original structures still standing today. These houses represent the last remaining pre-19th-century almshouses in the city, serving as a testament to the charitable housing initiatives that were prevalent in the community, particularly during the Middle Ages. Almshouses, often referred to as poorhouses or hospitals, were designed to provide shelter and support to those in need, reflecting the social values of their time.
They were constructed around the year 1650 and by the 1960s, the buildings had fallen into a state of disrepair, posing a significant risk of collapse. Recognizing their historical importance and the need for preservation, Chester City Council took action to restore these structures. The renovation and rebuilding efforts took place between 1968 and 1969, ensuring that the legacy of the Nine Houses would continue for future generations to appreciate.
Outdoor Attractions – Things to Do in Chester
Chester Roman Amphitheatre
The Chester Amphitheatre holds the title of the largest known amphitheatre in Britain, with a seating capacity that could accommodate approximately 7,000 spectators. In August 2010, a mural was commissioned to enhance the visitor experience at the site. This artistic addition allows guests to visualize what the amphitheatre might have looked like in its prime, creating an immersive experience that brings history to life.
Ancient Roman Columns (Things to do in Chester)
Exploring the streets of Chester can lead to many surprises at every turn. While we walked along Northgate Street, we stumbled upon impressive ancient Roman columns that serve as a fascinating reminder of the city’s rich history during the Roman occupation.
Chester City Walls (Things to do in Chester)
Chester’s city walls stand as a remarkable testament to both Roman and medieval architecture, representing the most intact defensive structures of their kind in the United Kingdom. For those who enjoy the charm of historical fortifications, a visit to Chester is a must. Additionally, I highly recommend taking a day trip to explore the stunning Conwy Castle and Caernarfon Castle in North Wales, both of which are conveniently located not far from Chester.
The complete circuit of Chester’s city walls stretches nearly 2 miles (3.2 km), making it an interesting part of the landscape for history enthusiasts and casual visitors alike. Almost every segment of these walls is recognized as a Grade I listed building, highlighting their significance and preservation. In comparison, the walls of Conwy are shorter, measuring approximately 0.81 miles (1.3 km).
King Charles Tower
A standout feature of a visit to the Chester city walls is undoubtedly King Charles Tower. This impressive medieval watchtower, constructed in the 13th century, is strategically located at the North East corner of the city walls. Its historical significance is tied to King Charles I, who, in 1645, is said to have observed the defeat of his forces during the battle of Rowton Moor from this tower.
King Charles Tower not only serves as a historical landmark but also provides a breathtaking vantage point over the town. Visitors can enjoy stunning views of the surrounding area, including a glimpse of the Chester Cathedral in the distance.
River Dee (Things to do in Chester)
For those looking to experience a unique perspective of Chester, a city cruise is an excellent option. This journey takes you beneath the iconic Queen’s Park Suspension Bridge, allowing you to appreciate its architectural beauty from a new angle. As you glide along the water, you’ll also navigate the curve of the Earl’s Eye, where the scenery transforms into a picturesque nature.
Gardens and Parks – Things to Do in Chester
Chester Roman Gardens
The Roman gardens were established in 1949 to show a variety of Roman architectural fragments that had been unearthed in Chester over the preceding century. Interestingly, none of these fragments were originally sourced from the gardens themselves. Instead, many of them were excavated from the site of the fortress baths located on the eastern side of Bridge Street, while others were found integrated into the northern section of the City Walls.
Among the standout attractions in Chester Roman Gardens is a beautiful mosaic that was long believed to depict dolphins. However, further archaeological analysis led experts to reconsider this interpretation, suggesting that the mosaic might actually represent hippocamps – the mythical sea creatures.
The mosaic’s design features black stones that indicate the surviving elements, while the grey sections are the artist’s reconstructions, inspired by similar mosaics found in the Roman Palace at Fishbourne, Sussex.
Grosvenor Park & Quarry Garden
The Quarry Garden is a serene and charming part of the park, providing a perfect backdrop for the medieval arches that have been relocated there. These stunning arches can be discovered within Grosvenor Park, a distinguished grade II listed park that first opened its gates to the public in November 1867.
Grosvenor Park is recognized as one of the premier examples of Victorian parks in the United Kingdom. It was designed by Edward Kemp, a landscape architect celebrated worldwide for his contributions during the Victorian era.
City Forest Garden (Things to do in Chester)
The City Forest Garden in Chester serves as a remarkable bridge between the natural beauty of rural landscapes and the vibrant energy of urban life. This innovative space features impressive Supertrees constructed from a sturdy steel framework, which provide a nurturing environment for a diverse array of plants, insects, and birds.
Museums – Things to Do in Chester
The Grosvenor Museum
The Grosvenor Museum offers free admission and provides insights into the rich history of the Romans and the city of Chester. This makes it an excellent destination for anyone looking to explore the past, regardless of the weather. It is a perfect place to visit on a rainy day to immerse in the fascinating exhibits and learn about the historical significance of the area.
Bridges – Things to Do in Chester
Queens Park Bridge
Chester is home to a variety of beautiful bridges, among which are the Grosvenor Bridge, the Old Dee Bridge, and the Queens Park Bridge. Each of these structures adds to the charm of the city, but a stroll across the Queens Park Bridge is an absolute must for anyone visiting Chester.
This historic bridge, constructed in 1852, offers stunning vistas of the River Dee, making it a perfect spot for both leisurely walks and picturesque photography. The atmosphere here is reminiscent of London, providing a beautiful urban feel.
Shopping – Things to Do in Chester
Grosvenor Shopping Centre & St Michaels Row
Winter is truly one of the best seasons to explore Chester. One of the highlights of this time of the year is the Christmas shopping experience at the Grosvenor Shopping Centre. This shopping destinations boasts a fantastic array of stores, ensuring that you can find everything for your holiday shopping.
As you wander through the St Michaels Row, you’ll be impressed by the stunning Christmas decorations that adorn the space. The city’s historic architecture, combined with the seasonal decorations, creates a picturesque backdrop that invites exploration.
Restaurants and Pubs – Things to Do in Chester
A trip to Chester would truly be incomplete without indulging in the local dining scene, which boasts a variety of restaurants, cafes, and bars. For those seeking a touch of elegance, I highly recommend the Opera Restaurant Bar & Grill. This restaurant offers a luxurious dining experience that is perfect for special occasions, such as birthdays.
If you’re traveling on a budget but still want to enjoy delicious food, Augusto Pizzeria is a fantastic option. It is owned by the talented duo Valentina Aviotti and Fabrizio Gobbato, who also run the Michelin Guide-listed Da Noi on Bridge Street. This pizzeria serves up authentic Neapolitan and Turin-style pizzas. The flavors are so remarkable that they transport you straight to Italy, making it a must-visit for pizza lovers.
For those who prefer a more traditional experience, the Shropshire Arms is a highly recommended pub that captures the essence of Chester’s local culture. With a diverse selection of beers and reasonable prices, it provides a welcoming atmosphere for both locals and visitors alike.
Beaches Near Chester
If you’re looking for a quick beach getaway from Chester, West Kirby Beach is a fantastic option, just a short 40-minute drive away. It’s particularly delightful on sunny days, so be sure to check the weather and tide schedule before you set off. When the tide is low, you have the unique opportunity to visit Hilbre Island, a gem in Merseyside.
In addition to West Kirby, you will find many beautiful beaches in Wales that are easily accessible from Chester. For instance, Talacre Beach is only about a 50-minute drive away and is renowned for its breathtaking sunsets, especially with the iconic Point of Ayr Lighthouse serving as a picturesque backdrop. Talacre Beach is perfect for those who appreciate natural beauty and want to capture memorable moments as the sun dips below the horizon.
If you’re up for a bit more exploration, there are other lovely beaches within 1 hour drive from Chester, such as Formby Beach, Crosby Beach, and Ainsdale Beach. Whether you’re planning a day trip to the beach or simply looking to enjoy some quality time in town, Chester is one of the best places to visit in the England.
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