chester england tour guide

Chester Walking Tours

THE GUILD OF TOUR GUIDES WELCOMES YOU

Willkommen  –  bienvenue  –  welkom  –  yokoso  –  bienvenido  –  huanying  –  dobro pozhalovat, welcome to the beautiful city of chester where your guide is waiting to show you over 2,000 years of history, daily guided walking tours, the chester tour.

The perfect way to start any visit to Chester: your Guide will lead you on a captivating journey through 2,000 years of history, taking in all the main sites along the way, including the Rows, the Walls, the River, the famous Eastgate Clock and the Cathedral.

Be enthralled by the tales and anecdotes of those who have contributed to the rich heritage of this much-loved city, beginning in Roman times, through the vibrant Medieval expansion period, the desperation of the Civil War, the Georgian elegance and the Victorian revival, right up to the present day.

Suitable for all.

Every day of the year at 10.30am. Additional daily tour at 2pm between Easter and end October.

Tickets can be booked in advance, or bought directly from the Guide on the day. Meet your Guide outside Chester Town Hall on Northgate Street.

Up to two under 16s go free with an accompanying adult

Tour duration 90 minutes approx.

If you’d like to book this tour privately for a group please visit our tours where you will find a range of tour options for groups.

The Chester Walls

The mighty circuit of walls, first built by the Romans when they established their Fortress Deva, and the remains of the largest Roman stone-built amphitheatre in the country.

Our unique two-tier shopping galleries first built in the Middle Ages when Chester was a thriving sea-faring port

The River Dee

The attractive riverside promenade with its complete Edwardian bandstand, Victorian ice-cream kiosks and boat trips along the River Dee.

The Eastgate Clock

The famous Eastgate Clock, said to be the second most-photographed clock in the country.

The impressive towers along the walls with their hidden secrets.

The Roodee, the oldest racecourse in the country.

Chester Travel Guide (with essential tips, itinerary & map)

By: Author Tracy Collins

Posted on Last updated: August 10, 2023

Our  Chester Travel Guide  includes recommended places to visit and things to do, accommodation options, tips and more for one of England’s most beautiful cities. Everything you need to plan your visit and essential reading for any visitor to Chester!

Plan your visit to Chester

Chester is a walled city located in Cheshire in England’s north west close to the border with Wales .

This historic cathedral city was founded in 79AD during the time of the Roman Empire when a Roman fort was constructed on the site. It is one of the best-preserved walled cities in England (other walled cities include York , Durham , Carlisle and Canterbury ) and has many medieval buildings located in the city centre.

Chester is one of England’s most beautiful cities and can be easily reached by train in around 2 hours from London which makes it possible to plan a day trip to Chester.

If you are considering spending one day in Chester or even a weekend in Chester ( staycation vacation ) our Chester guide contains all the information you need to plan your trip.

What you will find in this complete Chester Travel Guide

Map of Chester

When is the best time of year to visit chester, how many days do you need in chester, what is the best way to explore chester, by train from london, things to do in chester, accommodation in chester, tickets, tours & attractions in chester, best day trips from chester england, books to read before visiting chester, enjoy your visit to chester.

Chester travel guide – Visiting Chester FAQ’s

Chester is a great destination to visit throughout the year. While temperatures drop over the winter months to an average high of only 10-degrees centigrade it is still a popular time to visit due to the city’s annual Christmas market.

The warmest time of year to visit Chester is during the summer months of June – August. These are on average also the driest months to visit Chester.

Chester is a popular destination for those seeking a short break although a day trip to Chester will enable you to see many of the city’s attractions.

Chester is a great destination to add to a train trip itinerary of the UK due to its excellent transport links from cities such as Liverpool , London, Manchester Cardiff and Birmingham.

Chester is also a great base from which to explore North Wales and even the Lake District . Tours such as this day trip to North Wales which includes the Snowdonia National Park are an ideal way to see the amazing landscape associated with this stunning part of Wales.

The historic centre of Chester is easy to explore on foot. In fact, the centre is actually closed to traffic between 10:30 am and 4:30 pm!

Alternatively consider buying tickets on the Chester hop-on-hop-off bus tour and enjoy unlimited hop-on hop-off for 24 or 48 hours.

What is the best way to travel to Chester from London?

For timetables and tickets, we recommend the trainline . Take the train to Chester for a short break or incorporate it into your UK train travel itinerary.

Tip – If this is your first time catching a train in the UK read our complete guide to UK train travel which includes all the information you need to know to make travelling around the UK by rail a relaxing and stress-free experience.

• Distance from London: 263 km
• Time taken by train: 2 hours
• Leave from: London Euston

Click the links for more information about the best things to do in Chester (plus the best places to visit in Chester too.)

THINGS TO DO IN CHESTER

LIVERPOOL TRAVEL GUIDE / THINGS TO DO IN LIVERPOOL

NORTH WALES TRAVEL GUIDE

MANCHESTER TRAVEL GUIDE

LAKE DISTRICT TRAVEL GUIDE

BEST PLACES TO STAY IN CHESTER

Find more special stays in my Accommodation Guide for England.

This is our selection of the best tours and attractions available in Chester.

• Private Walking Tour: Experience a private walking tour of Chester and gain a fantastic insight into its multi-layered history stretching from its Roman origins, through historical events such as the English Civil War to today’s bustling city. Highlights include the unique shopping arcade called The Rows, historical streets and the 16th-century cathedral as well as the beautiful riverside along the Dee.
• Admission Ticket to Sick To Death in Chester: Sick to Death offers a unique attraction full of learning and discovery as well as activities and fun things to do. This is ideal for families (although some areas may be parent advisory.) Experience science and medicine in a unique way which may be gory at times but will also leave you asking questions.
• Fascinating Walking Tours Of Roman Chester With An Authentic Roman Soldier – An award winning tour which consistently receives four and 5 star reviews on trip advisor. A unique quality experience of the lives of those that built Britain biggest Roman fort and amphitheatre.

I have handpicked the best tours available from Chester through Get Your Guide (we book most of our day tours and organised activities through Get Your Guide due to their great customer service and cancellation policy) and Viator (another tour company we have used during our travels).

• Lake District Tour – This tour gives you a day in the Lake District National Park, leaving from Chester. It’s an ideal way to see the amazing landscapes associated with this stunning National Park and UNESCO World Heritage Site. 
• North Wales tour – This tour gives you a day in North Wales including the Snowdonia National Park, from Chester. It’s an ideal way to see the amazing landscape associated with this stunning part of Wales and the National Park.
• Yorkshire Adventure – Sightseeing Day Trip Tour – Spend the day exploring the Yorkshire Moors and sights including the family home of the Bronte Sisters and the Ribblehead viaduct .

This guide will have provided inspiration plus practical information to help plan your visit to Chester. You will find more inspiration and ideas to help plan your travels around England in these travel guides:

• Devon Travel Guide (including tips, itinerary + map)
• Northumberland Travel Guide (including tips, itinerary + map)
• Cornwall Travel Guide (including tips, itinerary + map)
• Peak District Travel Guide
• Oxford Travel Guide
• Cotswolds Travel Guide (with Essential Tips, Itineraries & Map)
• 10 virtual tours of famous landmarks in the UK
• 12 Historical Places in England you simply can’t miss

Looking for more inspiration for your travels in England? Check out my England Travel Planning Guide which has lots of ideas, tips and resources to plan your itinerary.

THE 10 BEST Chester Tours & Excursions

Chester tours.

• Cultural Tours
• Historical & Heritage Tours
• Walking Tours
• Up to 1 hour
• 1 to 4 hours
• 4 hours to 1 day
• 5.0 of 5 bubbles
• 4.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 3.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 2.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• Likely to Sell Out
• The ranking of tours, activities, and experiences available on Tripadvisor is determined by several factors including the revenue generated by Tripadvisor from these bookings, the frequency of user clicks, and the volume and quality of customer reviews. Occasionally, newly listed offerings may be prioritized and appear higher in the list. The specific placement of these new listings may vary.

1. Snowdonia & Chester Day Tour from Manchester Including Admission

2. CHESTER: North Wales Adventure - Sightseeing Day Trip Tour

3. Fascinating Walking Tours Of Roman Chester With An Authentic Roman Soldier

4. Fun, Flexible Treasure Hunt Around Chester with Cryptic Clues & Hidden Gems

5. Admission Ticket to Sick To Death in Chester

6. Private Chester Self-Guided Tour

7. CHESTER: Lake District Adventure - Sightseeing Day Trip Tour

8. Medieval Walking Tour of Chester

9. Chester's Dead Good Ghost Tour

10. City Sightseeing Chester Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour

11. 3 Hours Chester Historical Pub Tour

12. The Heart of Chester Walking Tour - Guided Walk

13. CHESTER: Yorkshire Adventure - Sightseeing Day Trip Tour

14. 3-Day North Wales & Chester Tour from Manchester Incl Admissions

15. Haunted Chester and its Ghosts: A Self-Guided Walking Tour

16. Guided Overleigh Cemetery Tour in Chester

17. Liverpool Private City Tour & Chester City

18. Hello Chester! Private Walking Tour

19. Food Walking Tour in Chester City

20. Chester Tour App, Hidden Gems Game and Big Britain Quiz (1 Day Pass) UK

21. Chester Quest: Self Guided City Walk & Immersive Treasure Hunt

22. Chester Quest: Self Guided City Walk & Immersive Treasure Hunt

23. Canterbury Cathedral and Leeds Castle Private Full Day Tour

24. Shore Excursion: Chester Experience - Sightseeing Half Day Tour from Liverpool

25. Tasting Unearthed Wine Tour and Explore Vineyard Lunch Included

26. Private Hire: The Lake District from Chester

27. Unique Private Photoshoot Experience in the Historical City of Chester, Cheshire

28. Private Transfer from Chester to Manchester Airport (MAN)

29. Taste of North Wales - 8 Hour Private Tour from Chester

30. Chester Mystery Adventure: The Mystery of the Missing 9th Legion

What travelers are saying.

• Fascinating Walking Tours Of Roman Chester With An Authentic Roman Soldier
• Fun, Flexible Treasure Hunt Around Chester with Cryptic Clues & Hidden Gems
• Snowdonia & Chester Day Tour from Manchester Including Admission
• CHESTER: North Wales Adventure - Sightseeing Day Trip Tour
• City Sightseeing Chester Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour
• Roman Tours
• The Chester Tour
• Chester Ghost Tours
• Dark Chester Tour
• Dee River Kayaking
• Tile Farm Off Road
• Tours Around Chester
• Chester Free Walking Tours
• Chester Cathedral Tours

A 1 day Chester itinerary to help you plan the perfect day out in Chester

If quirky and historical settings are your thing, then you should plan a day out in Chester. The Northern English city is located about 1.5 hours from Manchester by train, and is the perfect place to plan a day trip. We have come up with a 1 day in Chester itinerary to help you plan the best things to see and do when you visit. 

Disclaimer : This post contains affiliate links, so if you use these links to buy something we may earn a commission, at no cost to you. Thank you for your support.

A day out in Chester factsheet

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Before we look at planning a Chester itinerary, here is a little bit of background.

Country : England

Language(s) spoken:  English

Currency:  British Pound/ £

Population:  Approximately 77,000

Located in the northwest of England, Chester is a popular student and tourist city. It has strong Roman roots, and was founded as a Roman fortress in 1 AD. The city still retains a good majority of its ancient Roman walls. It also has some distinct Tudor Style Buildings in Chester Town Centre, making it a fantastic place to visit for history lovers.

Before you start planning your day out in Chester, you probably want to know how to get there. The closest airports to Chester are Manchester and Liverpool . Manchester is better for international flights, and Liverpool only really does European flights with the more budget airlines.

From both airports you can easily get to Chester by train. In fact most people do arrive in Chester via the train. And the good news is, is that the main train station is close to all of the sights making it easy to find your way around this city.  Once you are in the city it is pretty easy to walk to most attractions.

On a side note, Chester is also close to Wales , so can be included in an itinerary if you are planning on heading that way. 

If you are planning on staying in Chester just that little bit longer, you will need to look at accommodation.

Chester is a popular tourist destination so you will find hotels covering all price ranges. There are a few hotels located right near the train station which is lucky when carrying those heavy bags. If you are looking at booking your best bet is to go with a hotel booking sight like hotels.com where you can compare different prices.

Chester is not a large place but our top tip is to try and get something central because you want to be close to the sights and the nightlife. There are also a lot of spa hotels in the city which if you are there for a romantic break is always a nice touch.

Here are our recommendations of things to do when spending one day in Chester.

Do a Hop on hop off sightseeing tour

If you only have a day in Chester our top tip is to do a sightseeing Hop On, Hop Off tour . We did this and hopped on the tour right opposite the train station. It cost us £12 each and it helped us orientate ourselves with the city.

We were also lucky enough to have a knowledgeable guide on the bus as opposed to a recording. It was a great opportunity to ask questions and learn all about the city before going out and exploring on our own. If you do the tour you can buy tickets for the boat tour as well at a discount so keep that in mind. But if you forget, you can still get £1 off boat tickets if you show your bus ticket.

Stroll through Grosvenor Park

Grosvenor Park is a great place to visit when doing a day trip to Chester. After doing the full circuit on the bus we hopped off here.

It’s perfect if you want to stroll around and admire the gardens or just chill out generally. We started at the ruins of St John’s church and then made our way into the gardens. The gardens really are beautiful and so green.

The park is on 20 acres of land, and there are various points that overlook the River Dee, which is the river that runs through Chester. The cool thing is that Grosvenor Park is actually considering one of the best and most complete examples of Victorian Parks, in England.

Take in the atmosphere around the River Dee

The River Dee is a 70 mile river that runs through Chester and Wales. Close to Grosvenor Park is a paved section with promenades, park benches, restaurants, and stands selling ice cream.  It is a great place to stroll around with an ice cream cone in hand.

If you cross the bridge to the other side you can go for a walk along the river. It is also the perfect place to have a picnic and lie in the grass. The atmosphere along the river is incredible especially on a sunny day. You get to listen to the murmur of the tourists and locals alike as they soak in the views as well as the songs from buskers set up along the river.

This is also a good place to eat. Hickory’s , is a good choice and is a southern USA style restaurant. The cocktail selection is fab too! If you can try get a seat overlooking the river. It is fantastic on a warm day as well because there is a lot of outdoor seating. There is nothing like great food, great drinks and fresh air!

Do a boat trip

Another fun thing to do for your day out in Chester is to hop on a boat and explore the River Dee. We went with Chester Boat and it cost £7.50 for a half hour trip. There is a bar on board which we made full use of, particularly as the weather was lovely. The tour was very tranquil and gave us the opportunity to see some amazing riverside properties all laced with so much history. You can book tickets online in advance or purchase them on the day. 

Alternatively you can rent your own motorboat or paddle boat and explore the River Dee yourself. Either way a boat trip is definitely a must for a day trip to Chester.

Explore the Roman Gardens and visit the Amphitheatre

History buffs will love Chester as there is so much to see. The Roman Gardens are one of our favourite parts of the city, as they contain fragments from old Roman Buildings. It is a beautiful place to sit or lay in the grass and relax. Nearby is the Amphitheatre which is apparently one of the largest stone built Roman Amphitheatres in the UK.

Walk the City Walls

The City Walls in Chester are the best preserved walls in the UK. In fact you can actually make your way around the city walls in about 1 hour. You get some really beautiful views of the city, so it is well worth doing.

Also a fun fact – Chester is also the only city in Britain that has retained the full wall. Built originally to defend the city it is believed that the walls were completed by the mid 12th century.

Explore the Rows

Unique to Chester, the Rows are a set of half timber galleries that you walk up a set of stairs to reach. They form a second row of shops above ground level and they are a great place to explore. You will find quirky shops, and cafes up here and it really is worth exploring.

Visit Chester Cathedral

One of the highlights during a day out in Chester is to visit Chester Cathedral. For starters entry is free so even if you are on a budget you can still visit. Although I should add that donations are welcomed.

The Cathedral, was actually a Benedictine Abbey in 1093. In 1250 the Cathedral was rebuilt in a Gothic style. You can see elements of both designs when you visit which is very cool.

When you visit you can tell when you enter it is the real home of the community. In fact when we visited we were so lucky to witness a full choir and orchestra performing . The gardens are also incredible and there is a really tranquil space with a water fountain and several benches to sit on.

Discover Chester town centre

Chester town centre is a great place to shop and an even better place to admire the old buildings. The centre particularly around Eastgate is a bustling hive of activity with buskers, shoppers and tourists making the most of the historical setting. Just don’t forget to look up!

See the Eastgate Clock

One must do in Chester town Centre is see the Eastgate clock. It is a really beautiful decorative piece and is one of the most photographed clocks in the UK, after Big Ben of course. It can be seen as you make your way across the city’s walls.

I know we have mentioned a few places already for eating and drinking when visiting Chester in a day. Here are some other suggestions though to help you plan your trip.

Eating in Chester town centre

Here are some of the best places to eat in Chester town centre and beyond.

Porta is one of our favourite tapas bar in Chester town centre. It’s perfect for all those Spanish inspired small plates, and they also have an incredible wine selection.

They also have an outdoor terrace so if you are visiting in the warmer months, it’s such a relaxing place to go. Tables are available on a first come first serve basis. They are closed on Mondays, but do serve food from 12pm to about 10pm most other days.

This is another favourite in Chester town centre. The Yard does some great Italian food including a cracking good prawn tagliatelle. This is one of those places you do need to book in advance, and you can do that via their website .

The Ship Inn

This isn’t quite Chester town centre, but it’s not miles away either. Located in Handbridge which is a short walk across the River Dee.

The Ship Inn does a lot of classic pub food, with a really cosy and welcoming atmosphere. They are open every day usually around 10am – 10pm.

Commonhall Street Social

For something a little more laid back head to Commonhall Street Social. It’s located down a side street in Chester town centre. They do craft beers, and some great food like burgers and nachos.

Drinking in Chester town centre

Here are some of the best places for drinks in Chester town centre and beyond.

Vin Santo is a must for wine lovers. It’s also an excellent place to go if you want to try some food and wine pairings or even cheese and wine.

Beer Heroes

Beer Heroes is one of our favourite spots for drinks in Chester. Located in Chester town centre, they stock over 350 craft beers. They also do tasting sessions although you do need to book these in advance.

Bear & Billet

For pub style food and drinks the Bear and Billet is a good choice. The pub is located inside Chester’s city walls, inside in traditional half timbered building which dates back to 1664. It’s a friendly place, and good if you want a drink with some amazing views over the city walls.

For lovers of cocktails and indie music head to Kuckoo. The bar is located on Watergate Street in the centre of Chester. It’s got a really fun vibe, and perfect if you are looking for something a little different during your day trip to Chester.

Here is a sample Chester itinerary to give you a bit of inspiration for your own trip to Chester.

After arriving in Chester in the morning nip across the road from the train station and do the hop on hop off bus tour, in order to familiarise yourself with Chester. Once you have done the full circuit hop off at Grosvenor Park. Take a wander through the park, whilst eventually making your way towards the River Dee. Head out on a 30 minute boat tour to see the beautiful houses and surroundings.

Have lunch at Hickory’s by the river. When you have finished make your way to the city walls to walk off the lunch. You will eventually reach the town centre, and once here visit the Chester Cathedral. Make sure you also checkout the Eastgate clock before having some afternoon tea at Hatters.

Late Afternoon

Before making your way back to the train station make sure you stop by the Amphitheatre and explore the Roman Gardens.

You might be wondering if a day trip to Chester is enough time to see the city. Personally we think it is enough time. Chester is a small place, and the main tourist attractions like the River Dee, Chester Cathedral, City walls, and Chester town centre, are all within walking distance of each other.

If you do decide to stay longer then you probably only really need 2 days at the most. This will at least give you some time to explore some of the quirky and fun bars in the city and experience the nightlife.

Chester really is a walkable city, so you won’t need to worry about navigating public transport on your day trip to Chester. A hop on hop off bus tour is a great way to get around the city if you don’t fancy walking.

Money is an important factor when visiting a new city, and so you might be wondering how much money you need for your Chester itinerary.

Chester is mid range when it comes to expense. It certainly isn’t as expensive as London, but maybe not quite as cheap as some of the smaller towns in England. A lot of the attractions in the city are free, like the City Walls, Roman Gardens, and Chester Cathedral.

You can also get some good deals on accommodation if you do decide to spend the night. A 4 star hotel in the city centre will set you back somewhere between £80-£120 per night.

When it comes to food a burger and chips plus a drink will usually cost you £20 or just under. It obviously depends on where you go, and the fancier the restaurant the more expensive it will be. A cocktail will cost on average around £10 and a pint is usually just over £5 but this depends again on where you go.

The best time of year to plan a day trip to Chester is during the warmer months. Summer is a good time to go with temperatures sitting around 25°C. Although keep in mind summer can be incredibly busy especially on weekends or during the school holidays.

Spring is one of our favourite times to go because the flowers in the city are in full bloom. And with so many beautiful parks it gives you the opportunity to see the daffodils, and other floral delights. Spring temperatures usually range between 3°C and 17°C.

If you are planning to visit Chester in winter, December is the best month to go. The city puts on a festive Christmas market just outside of town hall.

Here are some final tips for planning a day out in Chester.

• Wear comfortable shoes, as you will probably do a lot of walking.
• Be prepared for all weather – especially rain.
• Book accommodation well in advance during busy seasons.
• Book any restaurants for dinner or lunch on weekends especially.

If you are wondering if you should plan a day out in Chester, let this be your sign to go out and book it. Chester is a really magical and unique city. There is so much history that you just won’t get in other parts of England. It’s also a relaxed place that you can explore at your own pace. So for a real taste of English culture make sure you organise a day trip to Chester.

We hope this guide to planning a day out in Chester, has been useful. There is a lot to see and do in Chester, but if you plan your day carefully you really can make the most of exploring Chester in a day.

And if you are planning to visit any other historical UK cities we highly recommend York .

If you found this useful you can pin this guide for later below.

Wanderlust and Life is a blog for those that love to travel.

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The Chester Tour Company

Your one-stop shop for sightseeing walks or coach tours with commentaries around Chester, the 2000-year-old city, with an experienced and entertaining guide. Many of our guides can speak different languages, just let us know your requirements.

Additionally, we can arrange Meet and Greets for tour groups by the Town Crier, Roman Legionaries and Mediaeval Soldiers and give out the best FREE map in Chester , always available to tour groups visiting the city.

All our walking tours depart from the Town Hall Square in Northgate Street unless otherwise requested by clients.

History hunter.

Explore great treasures from Chester’s 2000 years of heritage including the unique, world-famous Rows two-tier under cover shopping galleries and the most complete City Walls in the country.

Chester Ghost Tours

Explore the city’s haunted heritage from the past 2000 years and provide an extraordinary evening of fun and phantoms.

Dark Chester

Steps back in time to explore the sinister side of the city and ventures into a world of villains and vagabonds, witches and wastrels and highwaymen.

The Ale Trail

The Ale Trail is a celebration of public houses and drink through the ages and features a host of fascinating facts about hostelries and breweries across the city.

Roman Tours

Our trusted partner is an award-winning business that delivers walking tours around the Roman Fortress of Deva built 2000 years in the heart of Chester with a costumed guide.

American Chester

Chester has been welcoming visitors from the USA for hundreds of years including celebrated author, Henry James who came here on many occasions and wrote about its great heritage.

Mediaeval Mayhem

We whisk your group back in time to the 1400s to meet your tour guide – a Mediaeval Soldier dressed in authentic battle gear.

Tudor & Stuart Chester

We roll back the centuries to 1603 to meet Myles Mason, your guide to everything you need to know about this action-packed era. King James VI of Scotland,  Catholic plots across the country and the arrival of bubonic plague in Chester

BusyBus Tours

Getty Images/iStockphoto

Chester's Tudor-and-Victorian heart is justifiably famous as one of Britain's prettiest town centres. This collection of black-and-white timber-framed beauties and red-sandstone buildings surrounded by an original set of Roman-era walls is one of the northwest's biggest tourist attractions.

Leave the planning to a local expert

Experience the real Chester. Let a local expert handle the planning for you.

Attractions

Must-see attractions.

Besides the City Walls, Chester's other great draw is the Rows, a series of two-level galleried arcades along the four streets that fan out in each…

A good way to get a sense of Chester's unique character is to walk the 2-mile circuit along the walls that surround the historic centre. Originally built…

Chester Cathedral

Chester Cathedral was originally a Benedictine abbey built on the remains of an earlier Saxon church dedicated to St Werburgh (the city's patron saint);…

Chester Zoo

The largest of its kind in the country, Chester Zoo is about as pleasant a place as caged animals in artificial habitats could ever expect to live. It's…

Blue Planet Aquarium

Things aren't done by halves around Chester, where you'll find Blue Planet, which was the country's largest aquarium when it opened in 1998. It's home to…

Roman Amphitheatre

Just outside the city walls is what was once an arena that seated 7000 spectators (making it the country's largest); some historians have suggested that…

Grosvenor Museum

Excellent museum with the country's most comprehensive collection of Roman tombstones. At the back of the museum is a preserved Georgian house, complete…

St John the Baptist Church

Built on the site of an older Saxon church in 1075, it's been a peaceful ruin since 1581. It includes the remains of a Norman choir and medieval chapels.

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Home » Travel Guides » United Kingdom » England » 15 Best Things to Do in Chester (Cheshire, England)

15 Best Things to Do in Chester (Cheshire, England)

Right on the border with Wales, Chester was founded in AD 70 as the Roman fortress of Deva Victrix.

Excavations at the amphitheatre suggest that Deva was pegged to become the UK’s Roman capital in the 3rd Century if the invasion of Ireland had gone ahead.

The City Walls have big curtains of ashlar blocks from Deva’s ancient defences.

These are bolstered by Medieval towers and have tales to tell from the Siege of Chester in the English Civil War.

On Chester’s straight Roman streets you’ll see the Rows, Medieval timber buildings with raised galleries that can’t be found anywhere else in the world.

And you can’t talk about Chester without mentioning the zoo, one of the best in the world and one of the first to use humane enclosures.

Let’s explore the best things to do in Chester :

1. Chester City Walls

A fact that may stop you in your tracks as you walk along the three-kilometre walkway surmounting Chester’s walls is most of these defences follow the same course as when they protected the Roman fort of Deva.

Only the southeastern defences were altered when Chester was rebuilt in the 10th century, so that they could extend down to the River Dee.

The walkway gives is a fine way to admire Chester’s historic skyline and half-timbered houses, and will lead you to Medieval sandstone structures like Bonewaldesthorne’s Tower (1249), Thimbleby’s Tower (13th century) and the Water Tower (1325). Morgan’s Mount on the north side was built in 1645 as an observation platform and gun emplacement during the English Civil War.

It’s worth seeing the walls at ground level, where you’ll be able to identify the oldest Roman ashlar blocks, as well as pieces of spolia (Roman stone reused in the Medieval period).

2. Chester Cathedral

Built over nearly 500 years from the 11th to the 16th century, Chester Cathedral has traces of every Medieval English architectural style, from Norman Romanesque to Perpendicular Gothic.

The oldest parts of the cathedral are in the north transept, which has a semi-circular Romanesque arch, while the northwest tower also has 11th-century origins.

Here there’s a beautiful baptismal font, fashioned from black marble and dating to 1697. The choir needs to be seen for its Decorative Gothic stalls, carved around 1380. These have tall, sharp canopies adorned with little spires and crockets, and feature 48 misericords depicting an array of quirky characters.

The 13th-century Lady Chapel is in the Early English Gothic style, with a stone rib vault, while outside you can shuffle through the cloisters to see a 17th-century Mortlake tapestry on the refectory wall.

3. Chester Rows

The Rows are a set of timber-framed galleries on Watergate Street, Northgate Street, Eastgate Street and Bridge Street in the old centre of Chester.

These covered walkways have no equivalent anywhere in the world, and are set above street level, leading you past a second line of shops.

The first mention of the Chester Rows dates to 1293, following a city-wide fire two decades before.

They are believed to have been built to increase the amount of shopping space in the middle of the city.

Underground, beneath the galleries are vaulted stone undercrofts, 20 of which survive from the 13th and 14th centuries, while at no. 48 Bridge Street is the Three Old Arches, believed to be the oldest shop front in England, dating to 1274.

4. The Groves

Starting in the west under the city walls at Lower Bridge Street and ending at Grosvenor Park, The Groves is a pretty riverside promenade on the north bank of the Dee.

With beautiful views to the mansions of the Queen’s Park area on the south bank you’ll walk beneath the lime trees, past Georgian houses, pubs, iron gaslights and no shortage of benches to take a break and watch the swans.

One of the most photogenic sights is the Queen’s Park Suspension Bridge, a few metres east of the sweet Edwardian bandstand.

5. Chester Zoo

One of the best zoos, not just in the UK but the whole world, Chester Zoo in the north of the city is gigantic.

Over 125 acres there are more than 20,000 individual animals.

The founder George Motterhead wanted to built a zoo without bars, calling on natural barriers like ditches and moats to contain animals.

Every few years there’s a new multimillion pound habitat, and as of 2018 the newest is “Islands at Chester Zoo”. This mimicks six island habitats from Southeast Asia and has Sumatran tigers, cassowaries, Visayan warty pigs, Malayan tapirs, tentacled snakes and many more species from the region.

The list of other environments to check out is enormous, but you have to make time for Bears of Cloud Forest, Monkey Islands, Tsavo Black Rhino Reserve and the Realm of the Red Ape with Bornean Orangutans.

6. Grosvenor Museum

In a purpose-designed Renaissance Revival building from 1886, the Grosvenor Museum has assembled all sorts of fascinating curios over the last 130 years.

The name comes from Hugh Grosvenor, 1st Duke of Westminster, who put up more than a third of the funding in the 1880s.

Inside you’ll find the largest single collection of works by the 19th-century English watercolour artist Louise Rayner, stelae from the Roman period and a set of six recorders by the 17th and 18th-century woodwind instrument maker Peter Bressan.

The museum also has hands-on exhibits dealing with the natural history of the region, and reconstructions of period homes down the centuries, complete with original decor, furniture, paintings and everyday utensils.

7. Grosvenor Park

This genteel Victorian park covers 20 acres on the north bank of the Dee on land granted to the Chester by Richard Grosvenor, 2nd Marquess of Westminster.

Grosvenor Park was drawn up by Edward Kemp and is considered one of the country’s outstanding parks from this period.

Kemp’s design has regimented lawns, flowerbeds and paths, together with more picturesque elements like a stone arch removed from Chester’s St Michael’s Church, and the Grade II listed Jacob’s Well drinking fountain.

The miniature railway is from 1996 and runs on weekends and Tuesday and Thursday afternoons in term time, and every day during the school holidays.

There’s also an Activity Zone for youngsters, the Lodge Cafe and one of the UK’s top open-air theatres, staging productions from the start of July to the end of August.

8. St John the Baptist’s Church

Beyond the eastern walls, this Medieval church sits on a cliff overlooking the River Dee.

Constructed from sandstone, St John the Baptist’s Church has Anglo-Saxon origins, possibly going back to the 7th century.

The surviving architecture dates from the 11th century when the Bishop of Lichfield moved his episcopal seat to Chester, making St John’s a cathedral.

There are clear Norman Romanesque elements in nave, crossing, the first bay of the chancel, the drum arch to the Lady Chapel and in the ruins of the choir chapels.

This eastern portion of the church was torn down during the Reformation, and those remnants can be visited outside.

Back in the church you can see the pieces of Saxon stone crosses, thought to have stood in the churchyard.

9. Eastgate an Eastgate Clock

Chester’s most recognisable landmark, the Eastgate is the original entrance to the Roman fortress of Deva.

As we see it now, the gate has a sandstone arch from 1768, surmounted by the wall walk.

To celebrate Queen Victoria’s Diamond Jubilee (1897), the Cheshire architect John Douglas designed a handsome clock supported by openwork wrought iron pylons flecked with gold.

There’s a clock face on all four sides below a copper-clad ogee cupola.

The clock mechanism was supplied by J.B. Joyce of Whitchurch, and up to 1974 had to be hand-wound once a week.

Above the face on each side are the Queen’s initials, “VR” (Victoria Regina).

10. Roman Amphitheatre

An English Heritage Site and Grade I listed building, the Roman Amphitheatre was founded in the late 70s and lay undiscovered for almost 1,700 years.

Two different amphitheatres stood on the site, the latter dating to the 3rd century and able to seat at least 8,000 people.

The problem was that in the intervening years listed buildings had been constructed on all but the north side of this ancient monument.

So only the northern quarter has been recovered.

There’s a grassy bank where seating used to be a curved retaining wall delineating the pit.

In 2010 a trompe l’oeil mural was painted by London artist Gary Drostle to give a feel for what the rest of the building would have looked like.

11. Chester Cathedral Falconry and Nature Gardens

The grounds to the north of the cathedral, tucked into the northeast corrner of the city walls, are home to a nature attraction that kids are sure to love.

The Falconry allows you to get within centimetres of owls, hawks, falcons and a naughty vulture who goes by the name of Tinks.

The expert handlers show off these animals and provide lots of interesting information about their behaviour and diet.

Depending on the weather there are flight demonstrations, and if you’re brave you’ll be able to handle some of these birds of prey.

You can look around the centre, which also has terrariums for reptiles, and stroll in the gardens to pick up tips on how to attract wildlife to your garden at home.

12. Chester Cross

By the rows in the historic centre of Chester is a staggered crossroads at the junction of Northgate Street, Eastgate Street and Bridge Street.

Those latter three streets go right back to when Chester was a Roman fortress and were the main arteries in that period.

Just north of the junction of Bridge Street and Watergate Street was the setting for the fortress’ Principia building (headquarters). The focal point of the crossroads is the Grade II listed Chester High Cross.

This red sandstone monument is from 1476, but was taken apart by the Parliamentarians in 1646 during the English Civil War.

Pieces of the original were rediscovered in the 19th century and used in a restoration that was put up by Newgate in 1949, and then moved to its rightful position in 1975. The cross has an octagonal plinth, steps and shaft capped with a hexagonal head that is carved with niches beneath a circular finial.

13. Chester Roman Gardens

Bounded to the west by the city walls, the Chester Roman Gardens were plotted by the curator of the Grosvenor Museum, Graham Webster in 1949. The park was laid out in the run up to the 1951 Festival of Britain and has ancient architectural fragments found during the 19th-century excavations of Deva’s baths and military buildings like the Principia.

There’s a row of columns from the exercise hall in the main bathhouse, once almost two metres high.

The tallest column is from the Principia building, the site of the present day Chester Cross.

Also in the garden is a hypocaust heating system and mosaic, brought here from the Legionaries’ bathhouse.

Pay attention to the city wall you can see a section that was damaged during a bombardment in the Siege of Chester of 1645, and repaired quickly after.

14. Cheshire Military Museum

There isn’t much left of the Medieval Chester Castle, as the deteriorating monument was mostly reworked in a Neoclassical style in the 1780s by the acclaimed architect Thomas Harrison.

Along with the Crown Courts, the Cheshire Military Museum occupies former barracks in one of Harrison’s Grade I listed buildings.

With the help of authentic artefacts, photographs, paintings and accounts, you’ll learn about the various Regiments of Cheshire’s participation in some of history’s great battles and put yourself in the boots of a soldier fighting in the trenches in the First World War.

You’ll get to see curiosities like the silver collection of the Cheshire Regiment, a shield and baton from the Troubles in Northern Ireland, a WWII Vickers Medium Machine Gun (MMG) and memorabilia from the German surrender in 1945.

15. River Dee

On warm days you’ll be drawn to Chester’s river, and along The Groves there are a few companies providing cruises.

A typical trip will take you east, under the Queen’s Park Suspension Bridge, past the regal waterfront properties to the Chester Meadows on the city’s outskirts, before returning, all in less than half an hour.

On the way you’ll hear a running commentary, pointing out the monuments on the skyline and some of the river’s birdlife, like cormorants and kingfishers.

ChesterBoat and Chester Day Boat Hire also provide private charters if you’d like to float along for a day or more on your own vessel.

The river is also calm enough for pedalos and kayaking, all of which can be hired from The Groves.

15 Best Things to Do in Chester (Cheshire, England):

• Chester City Walls
• Chester Cathedral
• Chester Rows
• Chester Zoo
• Grosvenor Museum
• Grosvenor Park
• St John the Baptist's Church
• Eastgate an Eastgate Clock
• Roman Amphitheatre
• Chester Cathedral Falconry and Nature Gardens
• Chester Cross
• Chester Roman Gardens
• Cheshire Military Museum

The Top 10 Things to Do in Chester, England

The charming English city of Chester, found just south of Liverpool, displays Britain's connection to ancient Rome. With many well-preserved ruins to explore, including the remains of a Roman amphitheater, Chester is great for history buffs, as well as those who want to experience a classic English town. It's easily accessible from Manchester, Liverpool or Birmingham if you prefer a day trip, but travelers can also find a lot to see and do in the area for several days.

Chester, with its famous zoo and nice cultural institutions, is particularly good for families and it's easily walkable if you don't want to drive around. Whether you're looking for historical insight or just some shopping, Chester has a lot to offer. Here are the 10 best things to do when visiting.

Tour Chester Cathedral

Chester Cathedral was first founded as a Benedictine abbey in 1092 and later rebuilt in 1250 in the Gothic style. Part of the Church of England, the impressive cathedral still features the remains of Roman barracks and stands as the largest performance space in Chester today. Visitors are welcome Monday through Saturday (Sundays are for services only), and entry is free, although donations are encouraged. Stop by the Refectory Café, build in a 13th-century monk’s dining hall, for a snack or meal, and there's also a gift shop selling local items. Check the cathedral's calendar for upcoming performances and special services.

Explore Chester Zoo

Chester Zoo, which opened in 1931, is one of the U.K.'s biggest zoos and a good addition to any family itinerary in Chester. There are over 35,000 animals to see during your visit, as well as some memorable gardens, and kids will love the Treetop Challenge adventure course. Parking is free of charge, and the zoo has plenty of places to buy snacks or for young ones to run around. Grab tickets in advance online, especially when visiting during the summer.

Shop the Chester Rows

The Chester Rows, continuous two-tiered timber galleries with a signature black and white look, are the town's most iconic spot. Some of the buildings date back to the 13th century, while others are Victorian copies, and today they are filled with shops and boutiques. The Rows can be found on Watergate Street, Northgate Street, Eastgate Street, and Bridge Street, and the most famous building, the Three Old Arches, is on Bridge Street. It's a good spot to shop for souvenirs or to grab a photograph.

Walk the Chester City Walls

Dennis Barnes

Chester is surrounded by old stone walls, which can be traced all the way back to the Romans in 70 A.D. Once a defensive fortress, the walls, the oldest, longest, and most complete in Britain, are now a cool attraction that makes for a nice way to see Chester in its entirety. Access can be found at several points throughout the city. Guided walking tours are available from the Town Hall Visitor Information Centre if you want to learn more about Chester's history with the Romans. It's a relatively easy walk, but you'll want comfortable shoes and some rain gear when strolling during cloudy weather.

Visit the Grosvenor Museum

The Grosvenor Museum of Natural History and Archaeology, known as the Grosvenor Museum, is one of Chester's must-see attractions. The city's Roman history is, of course, on display, but the museum also has exhibitions on the overall history of Chester and its art and silver heritage, as well as the area's natural history. There are permanent and special exhibits, along with a calendar of events for both adults and kids, and visitors can also stop by for lectures by various local societies in the Lecture Theatre. The museum is open Tuesday through Saturday, with limited hours, so it's best to book your tickets on their website ahead of a visit.

Explore the Roman Amphitheater and Chester Roman Gardens

Getty Images

Chester has several sites dating back to the Romans, including its Roman amphitheater and the Chester Roman Gardens. The gardens, built in 1949, display ruins from the Roman fortress of Deva, which were uncovered in Chester in the 19th century (the city was once known as Deva Victrix). The amphitheater, a Grade I listed building and English Heritage site, was once the largest in Britain and used for entertainment and military training. The gardens and the amphitheater are free to enter and open year-round, making them great stops for any visitor.

Ride a Boat on the River Dee

George Standen

The scenic River Dee runs right through Chester, making it a great way to see the town. Several companies offer boat trips down the river, as well as rental shops where you can hire your own boat. Look for ChesterBoat , which offers a Half-hour City Cruise or a Two-hour Iron Bridge Cruise, as well as party cruises and private boat trips. Travelers can combine a ChesterBoat tour and a City Sightseeing open-bus tour ticket to get a complete land and water view of Chester. Cruises leave from near the Roman Amphitheatre on Souters Lane and can be booked the day of.

See a Show at Storyhouse

There's a lot to do (and see) at Storyhouse, a multi-use cultural center in Chester that features a movie theater, city library, drama theater, and restaurant. Located in the historic city center, Storyhouse makes a fun day or evening out, especially if you have a few days to spend in the area. The calendar of events is ever-changing, from films to plays to readings, and there are also numerous activities and events on offer for kids. It's open daily, so you can stop by for storytime in the library or make an evening out of it with dinner and a movie. Tickets range in price (and some events are free) so check online for the best option for your trip.

Place a Bet at Chester Racecourse

Getty Images Sport

Chester Racecourse opened in 1539 and remains the oldest of its kind still in operation. Races occur during the annual season, which typically launches each year in May and runs through September. Tickets range from 10 to 95 pounds, making them affordable for all budgets, and kids 17 and under a free when accompanied by an adult. There is a strict dress code when attending a race, so be sure you are following the guidelines on Chester Racecourse's website and pack something smart when traveling to Chester. Guests are allowed to bring their own picnics (although food and drinks are available there), so make a day out of your racing experience.

Grab a Pint

Courtesy of Coach House Inn

No visit to the historic town of Chester is complete without a visit to a historic pub. Chester has many good options, but the Coach House Inn, a 19th-century pub, will fulfill your cliched British dreams. The pub serves both food and drink, and visitors can even sleep in one of the rooms above the Coach House Inn. The menu includes many English classics, like fish and chips and sausages and mash, and there's a strong selection of beers on tap. The pub is close to Chester Cathedral and the Chester Rows, so book a table for lunch or dinner to take a break from sight-seeing.

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15 Top-Rated Attractions & Things to Do in Chester

Written by Bryan Dearsley Updated Dec 28, 2023 We may earn a commission from affiliate links ( )

Chester, the county town of Cheshire, is noted for its vast array of historic monuments, including its magnificent medieval city walls.

Chester's roots date back to Roman times, and the Vikings, Danes, Saxons, Scots, and Normans also occupied the settlement at various times. By far the greatest influence on the city, however, was its maritime trade along the River Dee from the 12th to 14th centuries, which brought with it commercial and cultural prosperity.

The Old City has been a conservation area for more than 50 years and retains numerous well-preserved half-timbered houses, as well as the Rows , its magnificent two-tier medieval arcades. Add to this mix its attractive bridges, parks, and riverside walks, as well as the city's many musical festivals, excellent shopping, and one of the world's top zoos, and it's little wonder Chester ranks so highly on England's most popular places to visit.

Learn more about these and other great attractions with our list of the top things to do in Chester, England.

See also: Where to Stay in Chester

1. Take a Walk along Chester City Walls

2. see the historic chester rows, 3. watergate and lower bridge streets, 4. chester cathedral, 5. chester cathedral choir, 6. chester roman amphitheatre, 7. take the kids to chester zoo and the blue planet aquarium, 8. dewa roman experience, 9. the roman gardens, 10. enjoy a riverside stroll through the groves, 11. st. john the baptist's church, 12. grosvenor museum, 13. cheshire military museum, 14. cheshire workshops, 15. beeston and peckforton castles, where to stay in chester for sightseeing, chester - climate chart.

Built mostly of red sandstone, Chester's City Walls follow the even older Roman walls, except where they extend to the river to include Chester Castle . The complete circuit - the best preserved of its kind in Britain - is a nearly two-mile walk taking in the four main gates: Northgate, Eastgate, Bridgegate, and Watergate.

At Eastgate, you'll see a clock erected in 1897 to mark Queen Victoria's Diamond Jubilee, while at Northgate, traces of Roman foundations can still be seen. Another must-see while walking the walls is King Charles' Tower . It was here in 1645 that Charles I is said to have witnessed the defeat of his troops at Rowton Moor during the English Civil War. The tower houses a small civil war museum, and evidence of the conflict can still be seen at places along the wall.

Other City Wall highlights include Morgan's Mount, an impressive watchtower; Pemberton's Parlor, a semicircular tower with great views of the river area; and Bonewaldesthorne's Tower, a solid sandstone Water Tower built in 1325. You'll also pass Grosvenor Bridge, adjacent to the Rodee, an ancient horse racing track.

Finally, be sure to visit the famous Wishing Steps . It's said that anyone capable of running up and down twice without drawing breath will supposedly see their wishes fulfilled.

Address: Northgate Street, Chester

Among Chester's most distinctive features are its galleried walkways, with their many shops running the length of the old stone and half-timbered buildings. Dating from the 14th century, the Chester Rows evolved from houses and shops built partly in front of (and partly on top of) piles of rubble left from the Roman ruins.

These rows are found in all four of the town's main streets which, following the Roman town plan, meet at right angles at the market cross. In Eastgate, Bridge, and Watergate Streets, the galleries are at first floor level, while in Northgate Street they're mostly at ground level.

Address: Bridge Street, Chester

Watergate Street has several exceptional half-timbered houses, including God's Providence House, built in 1652 and so named as its inhabitants were spared the plague. It's also home to Bishop Lloyd's House, with its beautiful carvings.

Leche House (1579) also has elaborate half-timbering, as does richly-decorated Stanley Palace (1591). Watergate street is also where you'll find the oldest building in Chester, the Blue Bell Inn, which dates back to the late 14th century.

Lower Bridge Street is also well-known for its beautiful half-timbered houses, in particular Falcon House. Also worth seeing is Tudor House, built in 1603 and one of the oldest dwellings in the city. The Old King's Head Hotel and the Bear and Billet, a four storied half-timbered inn, are also worth checking out and make for great photos.

Address: Watergate Street, Chester

Chester Cathedral is built on the site of a much older church dating from AD 958 and a later Benedictine abbey (part of the old Norman church survives in the north transept). The abbey in turn became a cathedral when, following the Dissolution, a new diocese was created by Henry VIII in 1541.

The Lady Chapel and Chapter House are Early Gothic (post 1240), while most of the choir is High Gothic (1280-1315). The tower, west front, and upper part of the nave are Late Gothic (1485-90).

While the splendid three-aisle pillared nave of the Gothic basilica is undoubtedly one of this elegant structure's most striking features, the west end is also notable for several features. These include the baptistery, another relic of the Norman church, which contains a 6th-century Venetian font, and the Consistory Court, which, though less visually impressive, is nevertheless unique in England.

Address: 12 Abbey Square, Chester

Official site: www.chestercathedral.com

The finest part of Chester Cathedral, its Early Decorated Choir, certainly deserves to be visited – even if it's all you see of this magnificent building. Its 14th-century stalls are superbly carved, with 48 droll misericords and an old abbot's seat inscribed with the Tree of Jesse, and part of a 14th-century shrine to St. Werburgh can be seen in the Lady Chapel .

On a musical note, Handel's Messiah was first rehearsed here and is often performed during the Christmas season. Visitors are also often thrilled to have the opportunity to hear the country's oldest volunteer choir in action, along with regular organ recitals.

The largest such attraction in Britain – and one of the top free things to do in the city – Chester Roman Amphitheatre remains the subject of continual excavation and discovery. As recently as 2005, excavations revealed two successive stone-built amphitheaters with wooden seating, one of them similar to that found in Pompeii.

In Roman times, the site was used for entertainment and military training by the famed 20th Legion, a fact that is especially impressive as you stand on the very spot where such activities took place some 2,000 years ago.

Address: Little St. John Street, Chester

In Upton, just over a mile north of Chester city center, Chester Zoo is one of the UK's largest and most popular zoological parks. Home to more than 11,000 animals representing some 400 different species, this 125-acre site also features prizewinning landscaped gardens and its very own monorail system. Animal attractions include Chimpanzee Island, a penguin pool, and Europe's largest tropical house.

Another great wildlife-themed tourist attraction is Blue Planet Aquarium , home to more than 50 displays of fish and marine species. The largest section, the stunning Caribbean Reef exhibit, houses more than 700 fish, including southern stingrays and moray eels, as well as Europe's largest collection of sharks.

If your budget allows, book one of the attraction's popular shark dive experiences.

Address: Cedar House, Caughall Road, Chester

Official site: www.chesterzoo.org

Be sure to visit the Dewa Roman Experience, a fascinating interactive reconstruction of the sights, sounds, and smells of life inside the 2,000-year-old Roman fortress buried beneath modern-day Chester.

The adventure begins aboard a Roman galley, before moving into reconstructions of the granary, barracks, a bathhouse, and market stalls that would have formed part of the fortress that was home to the 5,000-strong 20th Legion.

Time it right, and you might be recruited for a fun Roman soldier patrol through the city. Guided city tours of Chester's Roman past are also available and are suitable for all ages. Afterwards, shop for souvenirs in the on-site gift shop.

Address: Pierpoint Lane, Chester

Official site: www.dewaromanexperience.co.uk

Located close to the Roman Amphitheatre and easily accessible from the magnificent city walls, the Roman Gardens should be on your list of places to visit in Chester. Established in 1949 as a place to display larger building remnants from the Roman fortress at Deva and other sites across the city, it's a delight to explore.

Set lining the garden paths, and perhaps the most notable remains, are the substantial columns that once supported the roof of the old Roman bathhouse and the fortresses' assembly hall. Also worth seeing are the gardens' three modern mosaics, along with a hypocaust, a stone building used by the Romans as a heating system.

While strolling through the gardens, look for the large section of the city wall that looks like it has been repaired. This was where, during the Civil War of 1645, Parliamentarian forces used cannons to create a breach large enough for troops to pass through. Access to the River Dee is also possible from the gardens.

Address: Pepper Street, Chester

Set alongside the pretty River Dee not far from Grosvenor Park (you can access the park from here), The Grove is fast becoming one of the top free things to do in Chester. This charming riverside promenade is a delightful place for a stroll at any time of year and offers some unique vistas of the city.

Start your stroll at the city walls on Lower Bridge Street on the Dee's north bank and simply follow the path all the way to Grosvenor Park. Along the way, you'll catch some great photo opportunities, including everything from the elegant homes of Queen's Park on the other bank, as well as of the swans that call the area home.

You'll also stroll past some very attractive old Georgian homes and plenty of pretty, tree-lined green space with ample park benches to stop and contemplate. Other top sights here include the Edwardian bandstand (seasonal concerts are offered), as well as the Queen's Park Suspension Bridge. A number of restaurants, tearooms, and cafés are also found here.

Just around the corner from the amphitheater stands St. John's Church. Known in full as St. John the Baptist's Church, parts of this attractive church – once the city's main cathedral – date from the late 19th century, along with a section comprising an earlier 12th-century Norman church.

The triforium is Transitional and dates from around 1200, and although the original choir and Lady Chapel were destroyed when the central tower collapsed, they can still be seen as picturesque ruins.

Also worth a visit is St. Michael's Church on Bridge Street. Although no longer in use as a church (it's now a heritage center), it contains numerous interesting features, including its fine stained glass windows and a 15th-century chancel.

Location: The Cross, Chester

Official site: https://stjohnschester.uk/history/

The Grosvenor Museum boasts a fine collection of Roman antiquities, along with special displays illustrating the life of the Roman legionary and the Roman fortification of Britain. Exhibits deal with matters of life and death during Roman times, including medicinal remedies and instruments, as well as impressive collections of modern artworks. There are also numerous paintings and sculptures dating back some five centuries.

At the rear of the museum is 20 Castle Street, the museum's Period House. Built around 1680, it's displayed as a sequence of nine period rooms dating from 1680 to 1925.

Other notable attractions close to Chester that are run by West Cheshire Museums include Weaver Hall Museum and Workhouse , a local history museum housed in what was once a schoolroom in a workhouse; the still-operating 19th-century Stretton Watermill ; and the restored Lion Salt Works near Northwich, with displays related to a once-important local industry.

Address: 27 Grosvenor Street, Chester

Located in Chester Castle, the Cheshire Military Museum tells the story of the four famous regiments connected with the area from 1685 to the present day. Among the groups and individuals featured in the display are Lord Baden Powell, founder of the scouting movement, and The Cheshire Yeomanry, the last horsed regiment in action during WWII.

Highlights include displays following the exploits of the Regiments of Cheshire, their travels across the world, and the wars in which they fought, including a fascinating exhibit focusing on life in the trenches during WWI. The museum also houses the archive of the Cheshire Regiment, providing information on people who have served with the regiment.

Location: The Castle, Chester

Official site: www.cheshiremilitarymuseum.co.uk

The Craftsmen and women of the Cheshire Workshop not only demonstrate their hand-carved candle-making skills, they encourage visitors to participate in the art, too. The facility also offers glass, pottery, and jewelry displays, as well as a café and gift shop.

The attraction is particularly popular for parents, as the site includes a playground and numerous fun activities for kids.

Address: Barracks Lane, Higher Burwardsley, Tattenhall, Chester

Official site: www.cheshireworkshops.co.uk

The history of Beeston Castle stretches back more than 4,000 years to its origins as a Bronze Age hill fort. Perched high atop a rocky crag, the castle ruins are fun to explore and offer incredible views of the surrounding countryside, all the way to the Pennines and Wales. An interesting museum is located in the visitor center, and a café is located on the grounds.

A much newer fortress to check out is nearby Peckforton Castle . This attractive medieval-style castle was built in 1850 and made famous as the set for Patrick Bergin's 1991 film, Robin Hood . ( Peckforton Castle now serves as a 4-star luxury hotel.)

Address: Chapel Lane, Beeston

We recommend these highly rated hotels with easy access to Chester's historic monuments and city walls:

• Roomzzz Chester City : A mid-range apartment hotel, Roomzzz Chester City features contemporary design and provides a free breakfast.
• Oddfellows : This affordable boutique hotel is known for its quirky style, themed rooms, afternoon tea, and Mediterranean restaurant.
• Premier Inn Chester Central (South East) Hotel : For a budget hotel, near the bus to the city center, this is a good choice. It features modern decor and comfortable beds.

More on England

8 Best Things to Do in Chester, England Or What to See in Chester in One Perfect Day

By Author Rossi Thomson

Posted on Last updated: 4th September 2022

Categories England , Lists

The city of Chester in England is 2,000 years old and stands out with its Roman ruins, medieval cathedral, the second most photographed clock in England (after Big Ben) and a lovely bunch of black and white Tudor houses.

All this history and yet, the city feels very modern and vibrant..

Chester is a pleasure to explore and makes for a great day trip from London which is about two hours away by train.

I have to admit that my visit to Chester this summer happened completely by chance.

The city had never been on my travel wishlist. Spending a day there though left me grinning like the proverbial Cheshire Cat. For, yes, Chester happens to be Cheshire’s county town.

It all happened like this:

On a grey August day during our yearly visit to England this summer, I was busy looking at the map musing over the stopovers for our road trip to North Wales . This is when the name of Chester jumped out at me. We were to drive past it right before crossing from England into Wales. Spontaneously, a decision was made to stop at Chester for a couple of hours at most.

I didn’t even do a search for sights or other things of interest that we could potentially do there. The city’s name sounded really cool, it had a certain ring to it and, I thought, even if we didn’t like it that much, we could simply jump back in the car and continue to the island of Anglesey – our final destination for that day.

I am happy to report that Chester turned out to be an amazing destination all in itself.

The time that we had originally planned to spend there quickly tripled in length. We filled it with (among many other things):

• gawking at Chester’s stunning black-and-white Tudor houses,
• wandering in its cavernous cathedral,
• window shopping in the city’s unique Rows,
• taking selfies with Chester’s Eastgate Clock (which happens to be the second most photographed clock in the UK after Big Ben!);
• and even meeting Chester’s town crier which turned out to be the highlight of our day.

So, just in case you are looking for ideas for a great day out in England, may I wholeheartedly recommend Chester?! It’s an exciting, multilayered city built on the foundations of several historical periods to create something new and quite unique.

You can easily get to Chester not only from London but also from Liverpool, Manchester, Birmingham, and Leeds, to mention but a few of the many possible departure points.

If you are wondering what to do once in Chester, England, fear not! There are many things to get up to, see, and enjoy there. And to make it easy for you, I have prepared this very handy shortlist giving you first-hand tried and tested tips and details about the best sights in Chester to enjoy in one perfect day.

Let’s start! Here they are:

1. Chester Cathedral

A thousand years old, Chester Cathedral is an unmissable sight in the city of Chester. If you don’t have time to do anything else there, head straight to the cathedral for a substantial introduction to the medieval and modern history of Chester in archaeological, religious, and art terms.

Plus, Chester Cathedral – which is dedicated to Christ and the Blessed Virgin Mary – is a centre of musical excellence and has the longest-serving volunteer choir in England. You can listen to it six days a week during the choral evensong.

If you are spending a whole day in Chester, then put at least an hour (even better two) aside to spend in and around Chester Cathedral taking in its stunning architecture, beautiful gardens and myriad of curious details that make it such an unmissable sight.

For example, did you know that the cathedral’s nave was started in 1360 but it took over 130 years to build? The reason was the lack of workmen as the local population had been decimated by the Black Death.

Chester Cathedral is free to visit. While there, I was stunned to read that keeping the cathedral open for the public costs £5,500 per day! As such donations are much appreciated.

Complimentary guided tours of the Cathedral are held Monday to Saturday. Plus, you can take a Height Tour (paid for) to the top of the cathedral’s central tower. At a height of 125 feet (just over 38 metres), you will see both England and Wales.

What I particularly loved seeing in Chester Cathedral was its Victorian mosaics. Made between 1883 and 1886, they depict four Old Testament characters.

These huge mosaic panels reminded me of the stunning mosaics in Ravenna and at St. Mark’s Basilica in Venice, although, of course, they all are very different in style.

Some interesting spots and sights to see inside and outside Chester Cathedral are:

• Consistory Court (c.1590) – the most complete example of a church court in England;
• Chester Imp – a carving of the devil in chains to scare the evil spirits away;
• Medieval Quire Stalls (1380) – made of oak, they represent the finest medieval woodcarving in England;
• Lego model of Chester Cathedral – made of 350,000 Lego bricks. Plus, during our visit, huge sea creatures recreated with Lego bricks were displayed in the cathedral. Called ‘The Deep’ the exhibition highlighted the diversity of ocean life and the environmental threats it faces. It was quite unusual, to say the least, to see the Lego models positioned in the large medieval body of the cathedral. Great contrast of colours, shapes, and aesthetics! 

2. Chester’s Tudor and Mock Tudor Buildings

The first thing that will grab your imagination when you find yourself in Chester are the city’s black and white Tudor buildings. There is an abundance of these stunning timber-framed old houses. You will feel like you have found yourself in an English historical tale.

Take your time walking up and down Chester’s central streets and just feast your eyes on the shapes and decorations of its Tudor buildings. Watergate Street, Eastgate Street, Northgate Street, St. Werburgh Street and Bridge Street are particularly rich in timber-framed jettied houses but feel free to stray further afield for more black and white gems in the city’s historic centre.

You will soon notice that while some of these Tudor buildings look rather flash and gleaming, others seem to be a bit more battered by the hands of time. Thus the black colour of their timber-framing has paled under the elements and their walls and floors look quite warped.

This is because Chester has both original Tudor buildings built as early as 1603 and mock Tudor buildings erected in the second half of the 19th century during the Tudor Revival in English architecture. It’s interesting to note that the Tudor Revival incorporated not only original Tudor elements but also several medieval ones. As a result, the 19th-century mock Tudor buildings look even more stunning than the original Tudor ones.

Original or mock, the Tudor buildings in Chester are simply beautiful. Each comes with its own decorative details which make you want to stand there for hours trying to spot and decipher them all.

I particularly loved seeing the Art Gallery building on Bridge Street with its Biblical scenes carved out of black wood on blue background.

Some of the most notable Tudor and mock Tudor buildings to see around Chester are: Stanley Palace on Watergate Street, the Tudor House on Lower Bridge Street, as well as the iconic building known as 1 Bridge Street.

Many of Chester’s Tudor and mock Tudor buildings nowadays are used as shops and cafes so you can enjoy some retail therapy or a cup of coffee surrounded by stunning architecture.

3. Chester’s Rows

700 years old, Chester’s Rows are a feature unique to this multilayered city where different cultures and building practices existed in close succession to one another.

The Rows are long galleries that run through several buildings in the historic centre of Chester. Unlike galleries (or porticoes) in Italian cities, for example, though, Chester’s Rows are on the first floor of the buildings. It may be difficult to visualise, so let me use some photos here.

Basically, you have large buildings which are stuck next to one another. On their ground floors, there are shops, bars, and eateries. The unusual thing is that every now and then there is an outside flight of steps which allows you to go from the ground up to the first floor of the buildings. This first floor is like a large terrace giving you a lovely view of the street below.

All these terraces are connected with a long walkway – it’s like a street inside the buildings. At this level, there are shops, cafes, and bars, too. Plus there are also doors to the upper residential floors.

This way, you can walk from one end of the street to the other completely ensconced inside the long line of buildings. You can also shop on two levels or sit to have a nice cup of coffee with a great view of the street hubbub below.

Chester’s Rows are a great sight to explore. They are also unique to the city and can be seen on all four main streets of Chester. Traversing the walkways makes you feel close to the city and its secrets. It’s quite magical, really. 

While the origin of the Rows is not precisely established, there are several theories. One is that the Rows were built on the rubble left over from the Roman period. Another is that due to a devastating fire in the 13th century, the houses had to be rebuilt with stone undercrofts which gave rise to the two-storey design of the local shops. 

4. Eastgate Clock

Eastgate Clock is a very elegant and eye-catching timepiece which adorns the three-arched 18th-century gateway over Chester’s central Eastgate Street. 

Shaped like a turret, this colourful clock was placed there in 1899 to commemorate Queen Victoria’s Diamond Jubilee which had been celebrated two years prior to that. 

The locals claim that Eastgate Clock is the second most photographed clock in the UK. It’s topped only by London’s Big Ben. I happily contributed to Eastgate Clock’s photo fame by snapping it from several different angles. It posed like a true star!

It’s curious to point that Eastgate Clock stands on the spot where the original gateway into the Roman town of Deva Victrix (Chester’s Roman name) had once stood. As such, the clock serves as a nice link between the past and the present, reminding us all that time flies but memories stay with us.

There are steps that lead all the way to the top of the gateway on which the clock stands. From there you can enjoy lovely views over Chester’s historical centre and then walk on the Roman walls which surround the city to this day.

5. Chester’s Town Crier at Chester Cross

Who would have thought that our very best experience in Chester would be meeting the town crier?!

Traditionally, a town crier was the person with a loud and clear voice who was employed to make public announcements in the streets or the marketplace of a town. In other words, he was like a walking newspaper or an old-fashioned podcast, if you like, telling people of yore what were the news of the day. Like, who was about to be beheaded for stealing a hen or how much new tax the king was levying on his subordinates. You get the drift!

And then, obviously, newspapers, radio, TV, and, of course, the internet sprung on us leaving town criers jobless Europe-wide. Thus, the profession fell into oblivion like so many other honest professions of the past like scribes, for example, or hangmen, if you wish. 

Well, guess what! Chester has revived the lovely town crier’s tradition and claims to be the only place in Britain with regular midday proclamations at a fixed day and time (Tuesday to Saturday, June to August). We came across one of the two town criers of Chester at Chester Cross. Dressed in historical garb, he was getting ready for his proclamation and soon a large crowd of tourists and other curious people had gathered around him.

Chester’s town crier – David Mitchell – put on a real show for all of us. It was fun, it was entertaining, there was lots of historical information weaved in, too. Above all, David was a real-life embodiment of English humour – dry, sarcastic, a bit self-deprecating and with lots of play-on-words. He got us to cheer, laugh, and generally made us feel very welcome to Chester.

Curiously enough, Chester’s other town crier – Julie Mitchell (who is also a historical costume maker among many other things) – happens to be David’s wife. We didn’t have a chance to see her perform her town crier’s duties on the day we were in Chester. Maybe next time!

Click here to find out when you can see the Chester’s Town Criers perform. On the right day and at the right time, you will find him or her at Chester Cross – the intersection of the former main Roman roads, presently Chester’s main streets. A cross – known as Chester High Cross – has been standing at this spot since the 14th century. The current one was placed there in 1476 but then it got badly damaged in the following centuries before being restored a few decades ago.  

6. Chester’s Roman Heritage

Chester is a city founded in 79 AD by the Romans. Vestiges of their presence here survive even though almost 2,000 years have passed. The Roman castrum (town and fortress) established at this place was called Deva Victrix. Chester’s four main streets – Eastgate, Northgate, Watergate, and Bridgegate – follow exactly the main roads that were built by the Romans.

In addition, don’t miss the following sights in Chester in order to feel the Roman spirit of centuries long past:

• Roman Walls – these are the most complete Roman city walls preserved in England. You can walk on them in order to see the city of Chester from above and gain a better understanding of its history and heritage – from its Roman days to our present times. 
• Roman Amphitheatre – the largest Roman amphitheatre in England. In comparison with the one in Verona , Italy, for example, not much has survived the test of times. Still, you can see the outline of the amphitheatre and sit where once 8,000 to 10,000 Roman soldiers and civilians used to sit to enjoy the spectacles. Only the northern half of Chester’s Roman Amphitheatre is uncovered. The rest remains underneath nearby buildings. 
• Roman Gardens – for more Roman remains and artifacts head to the charming Roman Gardens which run parallel to the city walls down to the River Dee.
• Grosvenor Museum’s Roman collection – immerse yourself in Roman history in the Roman archaeology collection of Chester’s unmissable Grosvenor Museum.  
• Roman Tours – alternatively, you can join a tour of Chester led by a Roman soldier who also happens to be a skilled guide. Ask at the local Visitors’ Centre about times and prices. 

7. Chester’s Landmarks

Beyond its Roman heritage and Tudor black-and-white buildings, Chester has many more sights which are worth it of your time. Here is a handy shortlist to get you started:

• Town Hall – Built in the Gothic Revival style, Chester’s Town Hall stands out with its 160-foot (almost 49 metres) tall spire. You will find it right opposite the main entrance of Chester Cathedral. Chester’s Visitors’ Centre is on the ground floor of the Town Hall. Head there if you need any information about the city and its sights and/or if you want to book tickets for tours.
• Chester Castle   – It looked stunning but this mighty castle was closed for repair works on the day we made it to Chester. Our loss! The castle stands on a small hill overlooking the River Dee. Next to it are some impressive Neoclassical buildings which serve as Chester’s Town Court and Military Museum. Nearby you will also find the Roodee (see next bullet point).
• Chester Racecourse, known as the Roodee – officially, this is the oldest racecourse still in use in England. It stands at a place which used to be a bustling Roman port (before the River Dee silted). Apparently, you can watch the races for free from the adjacent Roman walls. There were no races at the time we passed by the Roodee so we admired its green expanse and tried to imagine what it must have looked like many centuries ago when boats instead of horses had the run of the land.
• Chester Market – a large covered hall with dozens of stalls. From books and vinyl to fish, meat, spices, and nuts, the market is a great place to get some locally produced food. Chester Market was our first experience in the city. You will find it inside the centrally located Forum Shopping Centre where we parked our rental car during our exploration of Chester.  

8. Chester’s Grosvenor Buildings

Everywhere you go in Chester, you will keep coming across one name – Grosvenor!

From Chester’s posh shopping centre called the Grosvenor to the local fab museum called the same, the name of Grosvenor is all over this beautiful English city.

I was curious to find out why and it turns out that all the Grosvenors in town are named after the Duke of Westminster whose family name is Grosvenor. The Grosvenor is an English aristocratic landowning family. Many of their properties are in Chester where in the 19th century many iconic for the city buildings were erected thanks to the investments of the Grosvenor Family. Among them are: 

• Grosvenor Museum – a very well-organised museum with a rich collection split into several thematic sections – from Chester’s Roman past to the city’s silver heritage and art. It’s free to visit (a small donation of £3.00 is appreciated) and there is lots to see and admire there, so put some time aside to enjoy it fully.
• Grosvenor Bridge – this was the longest single-span stone arch bridge in the world when it was opened by Princess Victoria (later Queen Victoria) in 1832. 
• Grosvenor Shopping Centre – a very nice place to indulge in a spot of retail therapy while in Chester.
• Grosvenor Club and North and South Wales Bank   – a historical building nowadays occupied by the HSBC Bank. You will find it next to Eastgate Clock. I particularly loved the shields which decorate its facade. The arms are of the twelve former shires of Wales.
• Grosvenor Park – a fine Victorian park with a miniature railway.

What I Loved the Most about Chester, England

I had a great time in the city of Chester in England.

The city felt very vibrant, clean, and friendly. It could be because we really lucked out with the weather. It was a gorgeous sunny day, one of those that make historical English buildings really stand out against the blue sky and Chester was taking full advantage of this to showcase its best sights. Plus, there were lots of people on the streets, the coffee shops and the eateries were bustling and street musicians were singing and playing their heart out in the historical city centre.

I found Chester’s central part very easy to orientate myself in and to explore. The main streets were wide and filled with light and all sights we managed to squeeze in were very close to one another thus making the city very walkable even with a small child.

What I loved the most about Chester were the original Tudor buildings and their mock counterparts. They were stunning to look at and I couldn’t help it but wonder how people – so many centuries ago – had managed to manipulate wood in so many swirly intricate designs. What tools and the wood from which trees did they use?! I would definitely love to learn more about it.

Chester is a city rich in details and everywhere you look try to spot as many beautiful details as you can. From floral patterns…

and ladies’ breasts on mock Tudor buildings…

to stone demons and scribes on Chester Cathedral…

the more you look, the more curious images you will come across. They definitely had my imagination fired and, if I had had the time, I would have spent hours just chasing them up and down Chester’s streets to take endless photos of them.

What We Missed in  Chester, England

It was amazing that we managed to see so much of Chester in such a short amount of time, considering that (and as I mentioned above) I didn’t do any research in advance. The city is very easy to walk around and navigate, organically coming across its most important sights as you take your time to explore its walled central part.

Had we had more time though, I wish we could have seen and done the following activities, too:

• River Cruise – the picturesque River Dee flows through Chester and it is inextricably linked to the city’s ancient past. River cruises run regularly taking you on a lovely journey past important historical buildings and sights. We couldn’t squeeze a river cruise in our day in Chester but it would have been nice to have the river angle when getting to know this beautiful city in England up close and personal.
• The Ice Cream Farm – a free to enter kids’ amusement park which boasts the world’s largest ice cream shop where 50 different flavours of ice cream are sold. It sounds quite exciting, especially, if you travel with a child. In any case, this place is about half an hour away by car from Chester Cathedral so we wouldn’t have had time for it no matter what but it’s something I would like to see if I am ever in that area again.
• Chester Zoo – this happens to be the most visited zoo in the UK and the third best zoo in the world. There are 27,000 animals there and the zoo spreads over 125 acres. They say you need a whole day to see and explore it all, so plan accordingly.

In Conclusion

Chester is an exciting city to visit in the county of Cheshire in England.

With a rich multilayered history starting when Britannia was a Roman province, nowadays Chester is a great destination for a day trip from many larger English cities as well as from the British capital London.

Chester is very walkable and its many sights and landmarks are close to one another making it easy to see lots in a short amount of time with or without kids in tow. Don’t miss the 1,000-years old Chester Cathedral, the Roman walls, the Grosvenor Museum and the many Tudor and mock Tudor black and white buildings which make a visit to Chester so unique and memorable.

The above blog post gives you detailed first-hand tried and tested information about the best places to see and experience in Chester, England. Logically organised, this list of the eight best things to do in Chester will give you plenty of ideas about how to spend one perfect day there.

Enjoy spending a day exploring the sights of Chester, England!

More helpful links.

• 10 Towns in England You Have Never Thought of Visiting but You Should
• Crab Sandwiches on Lindisfarne – A Moment in Time on England’s Holy Island
• A Postcard from Cambridge
• Carisbrooke Castle – The Prisoner King, Donkeys,  and Ghosts
• The Beauty of North Wales, UK in 13 Photos and Stories
• 18 of the Best Cities to Visit in Northern Italy (With Travel Tips and Nearest Airports)
• Day Trips from Padua – 35 Unmissable Destinations in the Veneto, Lombardy, and Emilia-Romagna
• Day Trips from Verona – 16 Destinations to Fall in Love With (With Travel Times and Train Tips)
• Day Trips from Vicenza, Italy – Over 90 of the Best Destinations
• 11 of the Best Day Trips from Venice (With Lots of Photos, Travel Times and Italy Train Tips)
• Best 12 Towns to Visit Around Lago di Garda – Italy’s Largest Lake
• The Beauty of Vicenza, Italy in 30 Photos and Stories
• Bologna, Italy – 10 Stories to Introduce You to the Fat Lady of the Italian Cities
• Ravenna, Italy – 10 Stories to Make You Want to Visit the City of Mosaics Now

Have you been to Chester before? Which sights from the above list did you enjoy seeing the most? Which other sights in Chester would you recommend that I see next time that I find myself there? Which are your favourite day trips in England and the UK?

Let me know in the Comments section below.

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Thursday 13th of January 2022

Its great you enjoyed your visit to Chester. As a resident for twenty years, it is still feels exciting to me when i'm walking around the center. There is so much more that few visitors will get to see. For instance there is a good cultural events and small festivals happening at different times of the year from theatre in the grovesnor park in the summer along to the midsummer and winter watch parades. Plus there are some lovely places to take in at your own pace as the meadows and around the old dee bridge. There's some more history to find out as Chester was where the King watched as his calvary lost a key battle in the Civil war. You can get on your bicycle and explore south to some lovely villages and pubs, north up to the Wirral and over the border along the Dee. There are a lot of decent places on the way to Angelsey, such as the victorian resort of Llandudno and Conwy along with rolling hills. Yet this is still only scratching the surface.

Friday 14th of January 2022

Dear Darren,

Thank you for stopping by and for your kind and very informative comment. Chester really is a great place to visit in England and I am sure, the longer one spends there, the more secret corners and great experiences they get to discover and accumulate. I certainly did enjoy my short time there!

Best wishes,

Tuesday 5th of January 2021

Hi great article! I went to Chester 2 years ago and was surprised how beautiful it was too loved the cathedral it is so amazing. Happy new year!

Wednesday 6th of January 2021

Yes, Chester is lovely. There is so much to see there, too! Have a great year ahead! Best wishes,

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Packed with incredible history, amazing places to visit, cool attractions, and fun-filled pubs, Chester, England is no doubt one of my favorite English cities! If you’re planning a visit to this ancient Roman town, I’ve got just the list for you. Here’s the best attractions, places to visit, and things to do in Chester, UK! And stick around for the end, where I’ll show you the best places to stay in Chester.

Psst. This post contains affiliate links. Read our disclosure .

After spending nearly 5 months collectively near the city of Chester, I’ve had a blast exploring its Roman walls, strolling through its cobblestone roads, admiring its picturesque two-story rows, and — of course — taste-testing many pints in its fun pubs and clubs.

Throughout this time, Chester has become one of my all-time  favorite cities in England.

Here are just a few things which make Chester absolutely awesome:

✓ Its ancient and captivating Roman history.  ✓ How freakin’ old some of the pubs are (seriously — older than the United States itself!).  ✓ The beautiful River Dee running right through it.  ✓ One word: Chester Rows — found only in one place throughout the world: Chester. ✓ Its unbelievably magnificent cathedral. ✓ Super duper old Roman walls which completely encircle Chester’s town centre. ✓ It’s incredibly cute and totally perfect for photos.

Seriously, this little city has it all! I’m so lucky I get to spend most of my time here when Dan and I are with his family in Wales. It’s such a perfect place to wander about. Days out in Chester are the best days!

Anyways, after spending so much time here, I’ve nailed down the best places to visit and how to make the most of your time in the city, so you never ever have to wonder what to do in Chester again!

Table of Contents

BEST THINGS TO DO IN CHESTER, ENGLAND

Walk the chester city walls.

First and foremost, when coming into the city you’ll notice tall, ancient walls completely surround the city center. Those happen to be the ancient Roman Walls, built over 2000 years old. Cool, right?

In fact, Chester is the only remaining city in Britain who’s walls are still completely intact! And almost as a rite of passage, you must walk the walls! No doubt, this is a must-do thing in Chester.

About 2 miles of path, walking the walls gives you great views of the city below, as you walk right on top of the wall itself. Additionally, you’ll get some great insight into Chester’s past. Throughout the stroll, helpful plaques and signs display fascinating information about the city.

Definitely don’t miss out on the Chester City Walls! They’re one of my absolute favorite places to visit in Chester.

Visit the Chester Cathedral

Boasting beautiful architecture, magnificent stained-glass windows, awe-worthy archaeological artifacts, and adorned with breathtaking towers, spectacular spires, and sky-reaching ceilings, the Chester Cathedral is no doubt impressive.

Founded as a Benedictine abbey in 1092, it was original built in the Romanesque or Norman style, which can still be seen today in parts of the cathedral.

Although, in 1250 the Chester Cathedral was rebuilt in the Gothic style. A process that took nearly 250 years and resulted in the spectacular structure we see today!

As a prominent icon, the Chester Cathedral is no doubt one the bucket list things to do around Chester.

Interested in learning about the full history of Chester? Book a sightseeing Chester heritage tour !

View the Roman Amphitheater

An incredible site managed by the English Heritage group, the Chester Roman Amphitheater is the largest in Britain.

Dating back to 86 AD, the amphitheater was discovered by the archaeologist W. J. Walrus Williams when a hole was dug for the grounds of the Ursuline Convent to install a heating system.

Nowadays, the amphitheater can be walked around and explored. Visitors can see ruins of the rooms where fighters would wait, the block which would hold and anchor animals (such as bulls or lions), and a large painted mural depicting what the amphitheater would have looked like in the past.

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Admire the Eastgate and Eastgate Clock

One of the more iconic things to see in Chester, the Eastgate and Eastgate Clock stands tall near the luxurious Grosvenor Hotel. Built in 1899, it’s positioned at the original entrance to the Roman fortress of Deva Victrix .

Although the Eastgate dates back to the 2nd century, it was replaced in the 14th century by a stone tower. The present gateway dates back to 1768; in 1899 the clock was added to celebrate the diamond jubilee of Queen Victoria two years earlier.

But even more important… it’s also said to be the most photographed clock in England after Big Ben! Safe to say, it’s definitely one of the more popular Chester tourist attractions. Don’t miss out!

Visiting London while in England? Here’s the muggle’s handbook to visiting the Harry Potter Studio Tour !

Shop Around and Walk Through the Chester Rows

Have you ever heard of the Chester Rows? If you’ve never heard of Chester, probably not!

This is because the Chester Rows are a unique design and style for the Tudor buildings in Chester… and, as it happens, the style isn’t found anywhere else in the world !

Dating back to medieval times, the first floor (in America, this is the second floor) of the Chester Rows consists of shops with a covered walkway. The ground floor of shops, often entered by going down a couple stairs, are below the upper row of shops.

Now I know what you may be thinking… this Chester attraction doesn’t sound very interesting. But what makes them cool is that the Chester Rows are completely unique to the city, some of the shops are literally older than the United States itself,  and the Tudor design is completely adorable.

Definitely  do not  skip checking out the Chester Rows!

Psst, want to stay at the best cheap hotels in Chester’s city center? Take a look at this post !

Stroll Through Grosvenor Park

After visiting a good amount of places to visit near Chester, you might want a little break away from the crowds! The Grosvenor Park is the perfect place to do it.

Even though it’s situated right in the middle of the city, the park doesn’t feel like it. Lush with gorgeous greenery like flourishing trees, beautiful bushes, and stunning flowers, it’s a great place for a stroll. You’ll also find an array of ducks and birds making a home throughout the park!

And if you want to relax and take a seat, the park is filled with benches. So, sit back, get comfortable, and do some people or bird watching!

Walk About the Chester Roman Gardens

Many a times, the Chester Roman Gardens are not on the “to-do” list of things to do in Chester… but they should be!

Even though it’s a rather small garden that’ll take you about 20 minutes to walk through (and that’s if you take your time), it’s interesting to see the artifacts, pieces from military buildings, the main baths, relics, and other items collected and excavated from the ancient Roman fortress of Deva.

Even better, the Roman Gardens are situated very close to the amphitheater. Thus, the two Chester tourist attractions can easily be combined.

Check Out the Coffin in the Wall

Now you might have read that and went “ whaaaat…? “

But, yes! Right in Chester’s city center in the ruined part of St. John’s the Baptist church, the most fascinating ( and creepy ) medieval wooden coffin can be found within one of the few standing walls of the former section of the church. Cool, right?

In fact, according to Atlas Obscura , it’s actually called the “Medieval Coffin of St. John’s” and the churchyard claims it to be from the 11th century.

But what’s even creepier about it is that there are actually scratches within the coffin… as if someone was totally buried alive.

Love to see creepy, yet cool things? Check out this abandoned waterpark in Vietnam for inspiration  or this eery bone church in Prague !

Meander Along the River Dee (Old Dee Bridge)

Who doesn’t love taking a leisurely stroll down a beautiful, flowing river? The River Dee flows right through the city and taking in the views whilst walking along it is one of my favorite free things to do in Chester.

Along the banks of the River Dee, you’ll find a beautiful promenade, relaxing views, and restaurants and cafes to grab a bite to eat at. If you want to get out on the river, you can rent yourself a motorboat, rowing boat, or a pedalo to get a different view of Chester from the water.

Additionally, don’t miss out on the Old Dee Bridge when walking along the banks. It’s the oldest bridge in Chester and was originally built in the Roman era. Nowadays, the bridge which can be seen is from a reconstruction in 1387.

View the Chester Racecourse

Known as the Roodee, the Chester Racecourse is the oldest racecourse still in use in England — dating back to the early 16th century!

Now, see, I said “view the Chester Racecourse” … because as a vegan traveler, I do not support horse racing whatsoever. ( You can find out why here  and here ). Thus, I’m not going to tell you to go to a horse racing event at the Chester Racecourse.

Although, even if you don’t go a horse racing event, it’s still cool to checkout the Chester Racecourse from afar! You might even be able to explore the grounds if lucky.

Have a Drink at the Oldest Pub in Chester

Ready to cheers a few beers with a couple of ghosts? Have a drink at the oldest pub in Chester for a super unique experience!

One of the coolest things to do in Chester at night ( or in the day depending on your bedtime ), the  The Pied Bull  is the oldest pub in Chester, dating back to the 11th century.

Although, there are few pubs in Chester claiming they’re the oldest… but who knows, right?

Here are a few other pubs worth getting a pint at, where you also might find a couple lost souls wandering the dark halls:

• The Falcon.
• Bear and Billet.
• Blue Bell (neighbor to The Pied Bull).
• The Old Queen’s Head. 
• Ye Old Custom House. 

Ready to be a more eco-friendly traveler? Here’s 8 super duper easy plastic-free travel tips !

Check Out the Grosvenor Museum

Step back in time and admire some of the Roman artifacts and relics housed in the Grosvenor Museum. One of the best things to do in Chester with kids, this museum covers numerous educational and interesting topics!

For example, visitors learn about habitats, transportation methods, the history of Cheshire, portraits, and even the Vikings. Whilst walking about, follow the a timeline of the history of Chester, going back nearly 2,000 years.

If you’ve done everything else on this list and anything else you want to do in Chester, the Grosvenor Museum is a good place to spend a couple hours learning about the Romans, Chester itself, and a few other bits and pieces of history.

Visit the Chester Military Museum

Love to go back in time and learn more about military shenanigans? Visit the Chester Military Museum where you can dive deep into the life of 17th century Cheshire soldiers to present day soldiers!

For centuries, Cheshire soldiers have fought in conflicts and battles that have significantly shaped not only England but world history. The museum contains a huge diversity of material to tell their stories you’ll no doubt be captivated by!

Chester Tourist Map

If you’re wanting to look at a map of the Chester attractions and things to do listed above, here’s a handy dandy Google map!

Places to Stay in Chester

If you’re wondering where to stay in Chester, here’s a few recommendations. Throughout the list, you’ll find something for every budget!

Chester has numerous hotels, bed and breakfasts, AirBnBs, and a few hostels. Whichever you prefer, it’ll likely be right in or very near the center of Chester, as the city isn’t very big!

Recommended Hotels in Chester

If you’re looking to splurge while in Chester, the Chester Grosvenor Hotel is the place to do it. With incredible reviews, smack dab in the center of the city, and surrounded by all the top Chester attractions, this hotel can’t be beat.

Book the Chester Grosvenor Here ($200/night)

Also situated right in the Chester city centre, The Coach House Inn is a 19th century coaching house. Even better? The Chester Cathedral is right across the road! The Coach House Inn also has raving reviews which say it has super duper comfy beds.

Book The Coach House Inn ($140/night)

The Bull & Stirrup Hotel Wetherspoon is a more affordable option compared to the Chester Grosvenor, yet it still has awesome reviews and is rather close to the city center. The building architecture is also beautiful!

Book The Bull & Stirrup Hotel Wetherspoon ($85/night)

Recommended Bed and Breakfasts in Chester

The Stone Villa Chester is one of the best bed and breakfasts in Chester! Exceptional reviews — of both the hotels itself  and  the included breakfast — and located near the heart of the city, it’s a great option for those who want a more homey experience.

Book the Stone Villa Chester ($125/night for two)

Recommended Hostels in Chester

The Bunkroom in Chester is right outside the main center of the city, is right next to the Chester train station, and is very affordable.

Throughout the reviews, people rave the rooms are clean, comfortable, and not crowded — which is great for a hostel!

Book The Bunkroom in Chester ($26/night)

More Chester Accommodations

Click here to view my post on the best cheap hotels in Chester, England!

It includes various sections on the best regular hotels, B&Bs, and even haunted pubs where you can stay (and maybe make a few ghost friends!

If you’re planning a trip to Chester, this list gives you the best things to do, top attractions, and cool places to visit, as well as the best accommodations in Chester! And, if you’re like me, you’ll absolutely fall head over heels for this beautiful city.

With its picturesque Chester Rows, breathtaking cathedral, incredible Roman walls, and amazing ancient history, it’s a city worth visiting no doubt.

Tell me, have you ever visit Chester? Or have you ever heard of this little city in northwest England? Let me know in the comments!

Not sure what to check out next? Readers love these posts:

• The in-depth guide to vegan food in Chester, England
• Best cheap hotels in Chester City Centre, England, UK
• Hiking Blencathra via Sharp Edge in the Lake District – England, UK
• 3 fantastic, lesser-known alternatives for popular UK destinations
• 33 reasons why you need to visit Wales that’ll have you booking a flight ASAP

Love this helpful Chester city guide? Pin it!

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Article comments.

Cerys Jones

Hey there! Great post! I’ve lived in Chester for the past 10 years or so, and love how you showcase the city! I also have a small travel blog of my own, feel free to check it out: jonescerys.wixsite.com/vojaganto Best, Cerys

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• Things To Do In Cheshire
• Things To Do In Chester
• Things To Do In Liverpool
• Things To Do In Manchester
• Things To Do In York
• Bed & Breakfast
• Hotels In Chester
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• Serviced Apartments In Chester
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• Things To Do

City Sightseeing Open Top Tour

Soak up the history and culture of this incredible medieval city, and make sure you see as much of it as you can on our open-top, double-decker buses. With 15 stops on the route, you can hop on and off as you please, giving you the chance to explore as much as you wish.

Book Your Tickets

The bus tour will introduce you to the all the things to do in Chester, including the famous City Walls , the Cathedral , and the Roman Amphitheatre . As you are transported around in style, sit back and enjoy discovering how Chester has survived and prospered through its unbelievable history.

Additional Information

Are you ready to explore one of the best preserved walled cities in Britain? With a number of medieval buildings, Chester is a brilliant place to visit for those who enjoy soaking up the history and culture of our ancestors. Your open-top bus journey begins at City Road / Station Road, with beautiful black and white buildings contrasted by bright red brickwork. This street crosses over the scenic canal as you head towards Foregate where the second bus stop is located. Hop off and check out the vast range of shops, whilst enjoying the old architecture which gives Chester so much character.

The bus passes Vicars Lane on its way to The Groves. This is a great place to hop off and take a stroll, with wonderful views to take in. Don’t miss Castle Drive and Lower Bridge Street at Bus Stops 5 & 8, by the dreamy river Dee . Castle Drive is a great place to walk alongside the University of Chester and embrace both historic and natural beauty, with plenty of grass and trees, and check out the old castle structure.

The bus passes Handbridge at Stop 7 on the way to Grosvenor Street, before reaching the Old Port area. This is where in earlier centuries, when the River Dee was a far mightier waterway than it is today, large ships used to discharge their cargoes for the City of Chester. The route passes Prince Street and Hunters Walk at stop 11, then St Werburgh Street at the 13th Bus Stop. Enjoy the views of the spectacular Cathedral before the bus loops back to City Road.

What are you waiting for? Buy your Hop-On Hop-Off ticket online today and get ready to feel & experience Chester.

Guide Prices

24 hour bus tour ticket – Adult (16-59) £12.50, Child (5-15) £5.50, Family (2 ad & 3 ch) £26.00, Seniors (60+) & Students £10.50

24 hour bus tour ticket (sold through Stagecoach bus app) – Adult (16-59) £12.00, Child (5-15) £5.50, Family (2 ad & 3 ch) £25.00, Seniors (60+) & Students £10.00

Late Afternoon Special (from 2.30pm onwards) – £10

48 hour bus tour ticket – Adult (16-59) £16.00, Child (5-15) £8.00, Family (2 ad & 3 ch) £30.00, Seniors (60+) & Students £13.00

Bus and boat ticket – Adult (16-59) £16.50, Child (5-15) £7.50, Family (2 ad & 3 ch) £39.00, Seniors (60+) & Students £14.00

• Enjoy maximum flexibility. Your ticket is valid for 1 year from the booking date.
• Create your itinerary. Spend as much time as you like exploring each stop!
• Free booklet with deals and discounts at museums, restaurants, and other tours
• Audio guide with pre-recorded commentaries in English. English live guide on some departures
• 24/48hr unlimited Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour with 360º panoramic views of Chester and surroundings

1.     Chester Railway Station Outside Town Crier Public House 2.     Roman Amphitheatre , Vicars Lane 3.     The Groves (your connection with Chester Boat) 4.     Pepper Street Grosvenor Shopping Centre 5.     Castle Drive River Dee 6.     Roodee Coach & Car Park 7.     Handbridge St. Mary’s Church 8.     Lower Bridge Street Deva Roman Experience 9.     Grosvenor Street Grosvenor Museum 10.   Race Course , Old Port Area (Outside Holiday Inn) 11.   Princess Street (not on Sundays) City Centre Shops 12.   Chester Bus Interchange 13.   St Werburgh Street (Sundays Only) Cathedral & Town Hall 14.   Foregate Street Queens Head Inn 15.   City Road Outside Premier Inn

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A guide to Birmingham, the UK city break you'd never think of

Multicultural, industrious and in an ongoing battle for the title of England’s second city, the West Midlands’ capital flaunts its heritage with style.

Everything changed for Birmingham with the arrival of the Commonwealth Games in 2022, the biggest in the event’s history. With athletes and delegates from 72 nations descending on the region and more than 1.5 million tickets sold, it gave England ’s second city a chance to prove its mettle on the world stage. And so it did. The opening and closing ceremonies rolled out Birmingham’s multifaceted past, proudly celebrating the city’s long-standing multicultural residents — often referred to as ‘Brummies’ — and manufacturing heritage as reggae, rock and grime artists shared the stage.

It’s no surprise that this former industrial powerhouse chose to showcase its roots. From around the 16th century, the city became lauded for its metal-working industry, earning it the nickname of the ‘workshop of the world’ by the 18th century. It then became home to two of the UK’s biggest car manufacturers: Jaguar and MG Rover.

Today, the residents of Birmingham are down-to-earth and self-deprecating, but the city has had its fair share of fame. Novelist and lecturer JRR Tolkien spent formative years around King's Heath and Sarehole at the end of the 19th century and later cited the area as inspiration for his books. During the same period, the real-life Peaky Blinders criminal street gang rampaged around Birmingham; they would go on to be the inspiration for the blockbuster period television drama that now draws tourists to its city filming locations.

Birmingham’s industrial prowess lasted well into the 20th century, but eventually waned as British manufacturing was scaled back from the 1970s. However, its heritage is still on show in pockets of the city, namely along the snaking canal network, which was cut in the 18th and 19th centuries to transport heavy goods in and out of the region by narrowboat. Now, many of the waterways have become urban parks used by joggers, cyclists and kayakers.

In Digbeth, the former Bird’s Custard Factory is now a creative digital business complex home to independent bars, shops and a cinema. In the Jewellery Quarter, where 40% of the UK’s jewellery is still made today, former factories have been repurposed as hotels, trendsetting restaurants and social enterprise spaces. The regeneration of public squares in the city centre, meanwhile, has seen historic neoclassical architecture like Birmingham Town Hall blend in seamlessly in Paradise, a sleek development mixing business space and leisure facilities.

Steady gentrification has also seeped into the dining scene. While the city has long been lauded for its authentic South Asian cuisine, especially around the Balti Triangle, what’s less well known is that Birmingham has five Michelin stars, more than any other English city outside of London. It may not shout about its achievements, but Birmingham’s official motto is Forward — and that’s the way it looks.

What to see and do in Birmingham

1. Roundhouse Birmingham Kayak Tours Birmingham’s canal network was first engineered in the 1700s to transport heavy goods such as coal and iron. Today, the waterway’s distinctive 19th-century brick Roundhouse, originally used as stables and store houses, has been revamped in collaboration with the National Trust and Canals & Rivers Trust as a base for tours. Pop into the Grade II-listed building’s visitor centre in the heart of the city centre before joining one of its unique kayak trips, offering a duck’s-eye view of popular landmarks such as the historic Gas Street Basin, and areas that are inaccessible by foot.

2. Sarehole Mill & Moseley Bog It’s hard to believe that a young JRR Tolkien drew inspiration for The Hobbit and Lord of the Rings when living just five miles south of Birmingham city centre, but it’s true. Tolkien often visited the grounds surrounding Sarehole Mill, a 250-year-old working watermill in Hall Green, which he later said inspired Middle Earth. A five-minute walk away is Moseley Bog, an ancient forest with gnarled trees and walking trails, which was the inspiration for the Old Forest, on the edge of the Shire.

3. Positively Birmingham These fun walking tours, led by local authors and photographers, tap into topics ranging from the city’s Victorian heritage to its role as the backdrop for the hit TV series Peaky Blinders. Tours run Friday to Sunday and take in street art, filming locations and city landmarks, like the Library of Birmingham and Black Sabbath Bridge.

4. Aston Hall This Grade I-listed Jacobean red-brick mansion across the road from Villa Park, home of Aston Villa FC , remains one of the finest standing examples of 17th-century architecture in the city. It also claims to be one of the UK’s most haunted buildings. Combine a visit to its rooms with a tour of Villa Park.

5. Jewellery Quarter Birmingham’s 19th-century industrial prowess gave it the nickname the ‘workshop of the world’, so for a window into its heritage, visit the city centre’s Jewellery Quarter. Here you’ll find Europe’s largest concentration of jewellers in a district where the original FA Cup, the whistles used on RMS Titanic and, at one point, 75% of the world’s pen nibs were manufactured. Now, many of the Jewellery Quarter’s warehouses have been repurposed as bars, museums and restaurants, all sprawling out from its centrepiece, St Paul’s Square.

6. Cadbury World Britain’s favourite chocolate maker turns 200 this year, and what better way to celebrate than with a visit to its factory? Just 13 minutes from New Street Station by train, Cadbury World’s home is the historic Bournville model village, where cottages, schools and sports facilities were built in 1893 by the Cadbury family for its workers. Today, Bournville remains a blueprint for British model villages and its immersive factory tour tells the brand’s story through interactive displays, actor appearances and, of course, tastings.

7. Ikon Gallery This nationally important artist-led gallery has one goal: to make art accessible for the people of Birmingham, free of charge. Ikon turns 60 this year and has been in its current neo-gothic city centre building on Oozells Square — a spot famous for its cherry blossom display in spring — since 1997. Recent exhibitions have showcased the works of photographer Vanley Burke and painter Mali Morris, among others.

8. Parks & green spaces With more than 8,500 acres of parks and gardens to explore, Birmingham is a much greener city than its industrial past would lead you to believe. Locals’ favourite park is Cannon Hill , a 15-minute bus ride south of the centre, which is home to the Midlands Arts Centre , an outdoor amphitheatre, boating lake, tennis courts and mini golf.

Where to shop in Birmingham

1. Birmingham Museum & Art Gallery Following a lengthy refurbishment, BMAG’s main galleries are undergoing a phased reopening in time for this summer. Head to its shop for products by local creatives, such as Stacey Barnfield’s Birmingham Colour Palette prints, and Punks & Chancer’s t-shirts emblazoned with the Brummie endearment ‘bab’.

2. Swordfish Records Swordfish is a shop tucked away on the city centre’s northeastern edge, but is worth the effort — it’s been a city mainstay since 1979. Most genres are catered for here but there’s nothing more quintessentially Brummie than flicking through the crates and going home with a Black Sabbath record.

3. Moseley Farmers’ Market Birmingham is surrounded by working farms that supply a handful of regular farmers’ markets. Perhaps the most popular is this one, held on the final Saturday of each month in the village of Moseley to the south, where all the food and drink for sale is grown, reared or produced no more than a few miles away. Local craftspeople often sell products such as jewellery, ceramics and textiles here, too.

See the city like a local

1. St Martin’s Rag Market It’s a rite of passage for young Brummies to visit the Rag Market — usually taken by grandparents seeking a bargain — with everything from textiles and homewares to food and jewellery for sale across 350 stalls. Birmingham was first granted permission to hold a market on this very site in 1166, making it a piece of city history.

2. Edgbaston Reservoir Birmingham is about as far from the sea as you can get, so Edgbaston Reservoir is where locals retreat to when they want to be by the water. Come for sailing, rowing and standup paddleboarding — just a five-minute taxi ride, or a 30-minute walk, from the city centre. There’s also a 1.75-mile trail you can walk around the edge.

3. Bearwood While the likes of Moseley, Stirchley and Digbeth find themselves on neighbourhood cool lists, Bearwood has been quietly fizzing away. The suburb tips over Birmingham’s northwest border into Sandwell and has become known for a burgeoning Latino food scene. Try Brazilian butcher-cum-restaurant BrasilPortu and the family-owned A La Mexicana .

Where to eat in Birmingham

1. Shababs The balti was invented in the 1970s by a Pakistani-Brummie restaurateur whose speedy method of cooking and serving the dish in the same flat-bottomed wok-style steel bowl caught on. Birmingham’s famous Balti Triangle, a 10-minute taxi ride south of the city centre, is home to a large concentration of authentic balti houses. Shababs restaurant has been a local institution since 1987.

2. Cherry Reds

This kitsch cafe-bar over the road from New Street Station is a hit with locals for its classic brunch menu featuring full English breakfasts and American pancakes, paired with freshly ground coffee from local roastery, Quarter Horse. Vegans and vegetarians are especially well catered for here, as are craft beer drinkers. Visit on evenings for live music.

3. Simpsons Michelin-starred Simpsons moved into Edgbaston in 2004, taking over a sprawling Grade II-listed Georgian villa. Chef-patron Andreas Antona and head chef Luke Tipping’s contemporary British menu provides playful twists on classic fine-dining ingredients like lobster, which is barbecued and served with pilaf rice, coconut and pineapple.

Where to go after dinner

1. Fox and Chance Carefully crafted cocktails take centre stage at this unassuming central bar known for its service and locally inspired cocktail names. Deep chesterfield sofas and vintage artworks are nice touches, but it’s the bartenders’ expert drinks knowledge that sets the bar apart. Try the funky Cannonball rum cocktail, named after a former city jazz club.

2. Nortons This independent bar in the Irish quarter of Digbeth pours some of the best Guinness in the city, alongside a range of cask and keg beers. Drinkers can expect great craic with trad music sessions on weekends and a beer garden showing live sports. There’s even a ‘split the G’ leaderboard with free pints for those who can take a gulp and land the black line between the gap in the ‘G’ on their Guinness glass.

3. Hare & Hounds If you’ve heard of the Hare & Hounds it’s probably because you know someone that saw Ed Sheeran play in its tiny gig room above the pub in 2011. Or so they say. This stalwart venue has indeed brought some of music’s biggest names to the sprightly south Birmingham suburb of Kings Heath, including UB40 who, in 1979, played their first ever gig here.

Where to stay in Birmingham

1. bloc With 73 cabins inspired by modern, Japanese design and 35 aparthotel suites, Bloc offers great value in a superb location near St Paul’s Square. Its lowest rates are found in its compact ‘no frills, no window’ space-saving rooms that still have king-sized beds, super soft linen and excellent monsoon showers.

2. Staying Cool at Rotunda For a bird’s-eye perspective on Birmingham, stay at this hotel high up in the landmark Rotunda building. It’s as central as you can get, with apartment-style rooms featuring kitchens that include complimentary local delicacies such as Birmingham Brewing Co beers and snacks from local zero waste shop The Clean Kilo.

3. The Grand Hotel Birmingham’s landmark hotel was empty for almost 20 years before a £50m restoration brought it back to life in 2021. The likes of Winston Churchill and Charlie Chaplin stayed here in their day, and more recently it’s hosted film stars such as Tom Cruise and Johnny Depp. The rooms include family and accessible options, as well as penthouse suites with four-poster beds. There’s also an on-site NYC-inspired brasserie, Isaac’s.

Related Topics

• SHORT TRIPS
• FAMILY TRAVEL
• CULTURAL TOURISM
• PEOPLE AND CULTURE

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