Chester, one of England’s most historic cities, is a charming blend of Roman heritage, medieval architecture, and modern attractions. Nestled on the banks of the River Dee, this picturesque city offers something for everyone—history lovers, shoppers, foodies, and outdoor enthusiasts alike. If you’re visiting for a weekend getaway or planning a longer stay, here are the top 10 activities to do in Chester to make the most of your visit.

Things to Do in Chester

1. Walk the Historic Chester City Walls

Chester boasts the most complete city walls in Britain, dating back to Roman times. Walking along these walls is one of the best ways to explore the city’s history while enjoying stunning views of landmarks like Chester Cathedral, the River Dee, and the Eastgate Clock.

Highlights:

• 2-mile circuit around the city with scenic viewpoints.
• King Charles’ Tower – Where King Charles I watched his army’s defeat in 1645.
• Morgan’s Mount – A great lookout point over Chester.
• The Wishing Steps – A charming historic feature near the River Dee.

Pro Tip: Start your walk near Eastgate Clock and complete the full circuit for the best experience.

2. Explore Chester Cathedral

A visit to Chester Cathedral is a must. Originally a Benedictine abbey, this stunning medieval cathedral is over 1,000 years old and features intricate stone carvings, stained glass windows, and Gothic architecture.

Highlights:

• Climb the Tower – Offers panoramic views over Chester.
• The Refectory Café – Enjoy tea and cakes in a former monk’s dining hall.
• Medieval Quire Stalls – Beautifully carved wooden seats from the 14th century.
• Falconry Centre – Experience birds of prey shows in the cathedral gardens.

Pro Tip: Visit in December to enjoy the Christmas Tree Festival inside the cathedral.

3. Visit Chester Zoo

 

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Chester Zoo is one of the UK’s top attractions and home to over 35,000 animals. Spanning 128 acres, it is one of the largest and most visited zoos in the world.

Highlights:

• The Islands – A Southeast Asian jungle-themed area with exotic animals.
• Elephant & Giraffe Enclosures – Get up close with these majestic creatures.
• Butterfly House – Walk among hundreds of beautiful butterflies.
• Conservation Efforts – Learn about endangered species protection.

Pro Tip: Arrive early to make the most of your day, and don’t miss the boat ride through the Islands exhibit.

4. Take a Stroll Along the River Dee & Grosvenor Park

For a relaxing escape, walk along the River Dee, where you’ll find rowboats, swans, and charming riverside cafes. Adjacent to the river is Grosvenor Park, a beautifully landscaped Victorian park perfect for a picnic.

Highlights:

• Boat Cruises – Take a river cruise or rent a rowboat for a unique city view.
• The Groves Promenade – Lined with restaurants and live music performances.
• Grosvenor Park Miniature Railway – A fun attraction for kids.

Pro Tip: Enjoy a sunset walk along the river for breathtaking views.

5. Discover the Roman Amphitheatre

Chester is home to the largest Roman amphitheatre in Britain, dating back to the 1st century AD. Once used for gladiator fights and military training, it now serves as an open-air historical site.

Highlights:

• Walk in the footsteps of Roman gladiators.
• Learn about Chester’s Roman past through information boards.
• Guided tours available for deeper historical insight.

Pro Tip: Visit Grosvenor Museum nearby to see artifacts found at the amphitheatre.

6. Explore The Rows – Chester’s Iconic Shopping Galleries

Chester is famous for The Rows, its unique two-tiered shopping galleries dating back to medieval times. Here, you’ll find a mix of boutiques, antique shops, cafes, and high-street brands.

Highlights:

• Independent boutiques and artisan stores.
• Historic black-and-white timbered buildings.
• Eastgate Clock – The most photographed clock in England after Big Ben.

Pro Tip: For luxury shopping, visit Grosvenor Shopping Centre nearby.

7. Take a Ghost Tour of Haunted Chester

With its rich history, Chester is considered one of the most haunted cities in England. A ghost tour through its old streets and hidden alleyways is a thrilling way to experience its eerie past.

Highlights:

• Visit haunted pubs like Ye Olde King’s Head.
• Hear chilling tales of Roman soldiers and medieval spirits.
• Explore the dark side of Chester’s history at night.

Pro Tip: Book a Chester Ghost Tour or Sick to Death museum for a spine-chilling experience.

8. Visit the Storyhouse – Chester’s Cultural Hub

For arts and culture lovers, Storyhouse is a must-visit. This award-winning venue combines a theatre, cinema, library, and café, offering a range of live performances, film screenings, and literary events.

Highlights:

• Shakespeare plays and live concerts.
• Independent and classic film screenings.
• Cozy café and rooftop bar.

Pro Tip: Check their event calendar for special performances and exhibitions.

9. Explore Chester’s Pubs & Food Scene

 

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Chester is home to historic pubs, cozy tearooms, and fine dining restaurants. Whether you’re looking for traditional pub grub or gourmet cuisine, there’s plenty to enjoy.

Best Places to Eat & Drink:

• The Brewery Tap – A 17th-century pub with locally brewed ale.
• Upstairs at The Grill – Chester’s top-rated steakhouse.
• Hanky Panky Pancakes – A quirky café serving delicious pancakes.
• Mad Hatter’s Tearoom – A perfect stop for afternoon tea.

Pro Tip: For a unique experience, visit The Cavern of the Curious Gnome, a Belgian beer bar with fairy-tale decor.

10. Day Trip to Chester Racecourse

Chester Racecourse, known as The Roodee, is the oldest continuously operating racecourse in the world. It hosts exciting horse racing events throughout the year.

Highlights:

• Spring and summer race meets with a vibrant atmosphere.
• The Chester Cup – One of the city’s biggest annual events.
• Fine dining and hospitality suites for a luxury experience.

Pro Tip: Dress smartly if attending a race day—Chester is known for its stylish racegoers!

Frequently Asked Questions About Attractions in Chester

1. What Are the Must-See Attractions in Chester?

Chester has a variety of historic and cultural attractions, including:

• Chester City Walls – The most complete city walls in Britain, offering stunning views.
• Chester Cathedral – A beautiful medieval cathedral with a tower climb.
• Chester Zoo – One of the top-rated zoos in the world, home to over 35,000 animals.
• The Rows – Unique medieval two-tiered shopping galleries.
• Roman Amphitheatre – The largest in Britain, dating back to the 1st century.
• River Dee & Grosvenor Park – A perfect spot for a relaxing stroll or boat ride.

2. What Are the Best Free Things to Do in Chester?

There are plenty of free activities to enjoy:

• Walk the City Walls – A 2-mile loop with great views.
• Visit Grosvenor Park – A beautiful Victorian-style park.
• Explore The Rows – Admire the medieval architecture and window shop.
• Visit the Roman Amphitheatre – Step back in time at this historic site.
• Stroll along the River Dee – Enjoy the scenic riverside views.

3. How Many Days Do You Need to Explore Chester?

• 1 Day: Visit the Cathedral, walk the City Walls, explore The Rows, and enjoy a meal by the River Dee.
• 2-3 Days: Add a visit to Chester Zoo, take a ghost tour, and explore more museums and shops.
• 4+ Days: Use Chester as a base for exploring nearby destinations like Liverpool, North Wales, or the Peak District.

4. What’s the Best Time to Visit The City?

Chester is a great year-round destination, but the best times to visit are:

• Spring (March-May): Pleasant weather, blooming parks, and fewer crowds.
• Summer (June-August): Warmer temperatures and outdoor festivals, but also busier.
• Autumn (September-November): Fewer tourists and lovely fall colors.
• Winter (December-February): Magical Christmas markets and cozy pubs.

5. What Are the Best Family-Friendly Activities in Chester?

Chester is perfect for families, offering:

• Chester Zoo – One of the best family-friendly attractions in the UK.
• The Roman Amphitheatre – A fun and educational visit for kids.
• Boat trips on the River Dee – A relaxing way to see the city.
• Grosvenor Park Miniature Railway – A hit with young children.
• Sick to Death Museum – A fun, interactive medical history museum.

6. What’s the Best Way to Get Around Chester?

• Walking: The city is very walkable, and most attractions are close together.
• Bus: Local buses run throughout the city and to nearby areas.
• Car: Parking is available but can be limited in the city center.
• Boat: River cruises are available for a scenic way to explore Chester.

7. Where Are the Best Places to Eat in Chester?

Chester has fantastic dining options, including:

• The Brewery Tap – Great for local ales and British pub food.
• Upstairs at The Grill – A top-rated steakhouse.
• Hanky Panky Pancakes – A quirky café with delicious pancakes.
• The Botanist – A stylish spot for cocktails and casual dining.
• Mad Hatter’s Tea Room – Perfect for a traditional afternoon tea.

8. What Are the Best Shopping Spots in Chester?

• The Rows – Historic shopping galleries with independent boutiques.
• Grosvenor Shopping Centre – High-street brands and luxury stores.
• Cheshire Oaks Designer Outlet – A short drive from Chester, offering discounted designer brands.

Final Thoughts

Chester is a city where history meets modern charm. If you’re exploring ancient Roman ruins, strolling along medieval walls, shopping at The Rows, or enjoying a ghost tour, you’ll find plenty of ways to make unforgettable memories.