Itinerary Planner

Top 10 Things To Do in Chester

Top 10 Things To Do in Chester

1. The Chester Rows
The historic Rows in Chester line the four main shopping streets in the city centre. The two-tiered galleries which are reached by steps from street level are unique to Chester. Dating from the medieval era today The Rows are home to a whole host of shops, many are independent boutique style shops which bring something special and unique to Chester’s retail offering.  

2. Roman Heritage
The Roman city of Chester was originally built to control the native tribes of North Wales and northern Britain. The layout of Chester today, still follows the original Roman pattern, with a defensive wall circling the city which are the most complete in the UK and stretch over two miles. It is also home to the largest Roman amphitheatre in Britain, used for entertainment and military training by the 20th Legion and which is free to visit. You can also join a Roman Tour of the city where your very own centurion will give you an insight into Roman Chester.

3. Chester Races
According to official records Chester Racecourse is the oldest racecourse still in use in England. It is also thought to be the smallest racecourse of significance in England, at 1 mile and 1 furlong. The Chester Racecourse site was home to the famous and bloody Goteddsday football match. The game was very violent and, in 1533, banned by the city, to be replaced in 1539 by horse racing. Today 15 annual race meets are held at Chester Racecourse and draw in huge crowds from the North West and beyond.

4. Chester Cathedral
In a city steeped in heritage Chester Cathedral is the embodiment of what is attractive about the city. With a fascinating history spanning almost two thousand years it boasts some wonderful sights including the Nave Mosaics dating back to 1880 and are said to be some of the finest in the country.

It is also home to Cathedral at Height, a guided tour that takes you behind the scenes providing an unparalleled level of public access. The tour lets you explore the bell-ringing chamber, peer down on the fourteenth century quire stalls, amble along the galleries and take in the panoramic views from the roof.

5. Guided Tours
One of the best ways to discover Chester’s fascinating past is to join a guided tour. Daily Walking Tours, Roman Tours and sightseeing buses operate from the Visitor Information Centre and are extremely popular with visitors to the city as they get to experience Chester from a different perspective, taking in all the wonderful sights of the black and white buildings, architecture and history.

6. River Dee
Flowing through the city, the River Dee is a great focal point for visitors and locals. Home to boats offering cruises, rowing boats and pedalos for hire, a bandstand and benches it’s the perfect place to relax on a sunny day with cafes and restaurants lining its banks and plenty of scenery to enjoy.

Chester Boat run daily river cruises from The Groves which pass by the beautiful Eaton Estate, home to the Duke of Westminster.

7. Boutique Shopping
Chester is well renowned for its quirky, unique boutique shopping. As well as hosting a wide range of high street brands, you’ll find a wealth of unusual independently run shops along the side streets and famous Rows.  Watergate Street, branded ‘The Independent Quarter’ is mainly filled with independents, from galleries to clothing boutiques, trendy bars and quaint café’s all a stone’s throw from the main shopping street and an absolute must when visiting Chester.

8. Chester Zoo
Chester Zoo is continually winning awards for being one of the top attractions in the country and upon visiting you’ll soon see why! It is home to over 21,000 animals including some of the most endangered in the world. From magnificent elephants and rhinos to delicate butterflies there’s something different to see around every corner.

9. The Chester Grosvenor 
Housed in an historic building with a black and white timbered façade, The Chester Grosvenor is situated in the centre of the beautiful Roman city of Chester. The five red star hotel is one of the city’s greatest landmarks, standing alongside the iconic Eastgate Clock. It has an award winning Michelin starred Restaurant, Simon Radley at the Chester Grosvenor which has retained its coveted star since 1990 and also has four AA rosettes. The hotel is also home to a luxurious spa with a range of over forty rituals and treatments and is the perfect choice for enjoying Afternoon Tea.

10. Town Crier
Chester is a charming city with many unique features which endears it to visitors and residents alike. There are many unusual and interesting facts that people may not know about Chester, the history of the Town Crier is certainly one. Chester is the only place in Britain to have retained the tradition of regular midday proclamations at a fixed place and time. Located at the pedestrianised intersection of the four main streets of Chester, the High Cross has been the site of proclamations since the Middle Ages.  From June to August, Tuesday to Saturday you can see the Town Crier at 12 noon (11.00am on Chester Race Days).

Product Information

  1. Chester Rows

    Chester

    The Rows are continuous half-timbered galleries, reached by steps, which form a second row of shops above those at street level along Watergate Street, Northgate Street, Eastgate Street and Bridge Street. The Rows are unique in the world to Chester!

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    Man and woman on the Chester Rows
    Man and woman on the Chester Rows
    Chester Rows
    Chester Rows
    Man and woman on the Chester Rows
    Man and woman on the Chester Rows
    Chester Rows
    Chester Rows

    The Rows are continuous half-timbered galleries, reached by steps, which form a second row of shops above those at street level along Watergate Street, Northgate Street, Eastgate Street and Bridge Street. The Rows are unique in the world to Chester, and nobody is quite sure why they were built in this way. Some original 13th century buildings, including the Three Old Arches in Bridge Street, have survived the ravages of time, but many of the impressive facades are Victorian copies. Nevertheless, they are still magnificent and greatly contribute to the beauty and character of Chester.

    Contact Details:

    Bridge St, Watergate St, Eastgate Street, Chester, Cheshire, CH1 1NG

    Tel:

    01244 402110

    Website

    Web Site

  2. Roman Soldier Tours

    Chester

    Dedicated to illuminating the life of Roman soldiers and life in Roman Britain.

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    Roman Tours of Chester
    Roman Tours of Chester, ideal for groups or families
    Discover the Roman heritage of Chester with a Roman Tour
    Roman Tours of Chester
    Roman Tours of Chester, ideal for groups or families
    Discover the Roman heritage of Chester with a Roman Tour

    Dedicated to illuminating the life of Roman soldiers and life in Roman Britain.

    Award-winning Roman Tours offer a superb fact-filled entertaining story of 2,000-year-old Deva - Britain's biggest Roman fortress. Legionary guides take you behind the scenes at key sites to explore the drama of life in the Roman Army - all based on the latest research by military experts.

    We are specialist providers of Roman history to schools and museums across the U.K. for more than 18 years. Presenting and illuminating the life of a Roman soldier in Britain, through informative, educational and interactive experiences for all ages.

    We provide some of the only full-time professional Romans in Britain, throughout the year. Enduring the British climate in authentic clothing and equipment and constantly update our knowledge and equipment as archaeology uncovers new information. We regularly visit schools across the UK and bring education on Roman Britain to you. Should you visit Chester we also provide guided tours of the largest Roman fortress in the UK for all ages and groups. We can also provide Roman characters for corporate promotions or to add to your own event.

    A fascinating journey in the footsteps of Leg XX.v.v (20th legion)

    Daily tours throughout the year 12 noon and 2.30pm

    Tours start from Chester Visitor Information Centre, Next to the Town Hall, Chester.

    Tickets can be purchased in advance or on the day from Chester Visitor Information Centre.

     

    Contact Details:

    Chester Visitor Information Centre, Chester Town Hall, Chester, Cheshire, CH1 2HJ

    Tel:

    01978 761264 / 07885 403485

    Website

    Web Site

  3. Chester Racecourse

    Chester

    Chester Racecourse is the oldest Racecourse in Britain & the oldest in the world still in operation.

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    Race fixtures throughout the year at Chester Racecourse
    Chester Racecourse, the UK's oldest racecourse
    The thrill of the races at Chester Racecourse
    Chester Racecourse, since 1539
    Chester Racecourse a must visit
    Race fixtures throughout the year at Chester Racecourse
    Chester Racecourse, the UK's oldest racecourse
    The thrill of the races at Chester Racecourse
    Chester Racecourse, since 1539
    Chester Racecourse a must visit

    We’ve had years honing our craft in racegoer satisfaction and an afternoon (or evening) on the Roodee offers an experience like no other.

    Sample the thrill of watching competitive racing, whist enjoying premium food and beverages across a variety of areas and enclosures. Whether you’re looking to celebrate a special occasion or fill your weekend with some serious fun, we’ve something to suit. Mingle with the stylish crowd and enjoy a day to remember with family and friends.  

    Contact Details:

    Chester, Cheshire, CH1 2LY

    Tel:

    01244 304600

    Website

    Web Site

  4. Chester Cathedral

    Chester

    Chester Cathedral is many things to many people: a vibrant community of worship, an ancient abbey, an archaeological treasure, a cultural hub, a centre of musical excellence, a unique blend of modern and medieval history.

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    Chester Cathedral,concert,music,orchestra,live
    Chester Cathedral,concert,music,orchestra,live

    Chester Cathedral is many things to many people: a vibrant community of worship, an ancient abbey, an archaeological treasure, a cultural hub, a centre of musical excellence, a unique blend of modern and medieval history.

    Come and spend the day

    Book on to one of the Tower Tours & Ground Floor Tours and explore the magnificent building which is a national treasure within the heart of Chester. 

    Enjoy and indulge in delicious food in the 13th Century Monks Hall Refectory Café or book a Traditional Afternoon Tea and take in the stunning surroundings.

    Visit the beautiful and unique Gift Shop which has a wonderful range of music, jewellery, books, cards, toys, confectionery, gifts and souvenirs for all seasons and occasions.

    Entry is FREE to the Cathedral but donations are welcome.

    Groups are welcome by appointment and tours can be specially tailored to include coffee, tea or lunch to make a great day out for your organisation. Disabled access and facilities including toilets and induction loop. For more information, regular service times and details of forthcoming events and concerts and online booking, please see the Chester Cathedral website.

    Chester Cathedral is also a unique venue for business meetings, corporate hospitality, pre and post concert receptions, gala dinners and much more.

     

    Contact Details:

    12 Abbey Square, Chester, Cheshire, CH1 2HU

    Tel:

    01244 324756

    Website

    Web Site

  5. The Chester Tour

    Chester

    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.

    Add The Chester Tour to your Itinerary

    Discover more about Chester on a Chester Tour

    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.

    Daily at 10.30am (and again at 2pm from Easter to end of October)

    Meet your Guide at the Town Hall Visitor Information Centre

    Tour lasts approximately 90 minutes

    Arrive at the Town Hall Visitor Information Centre 15 minutes before the start time to buy your ticket direct from the Guide

    Tickets are £10 per person plus up to two under 16s go free with an accompanying adult. www.chestertours.org.uk

    This tour can be booked privately for a group by emailing chesterwalkingtours@gmail.com

     

    Contact Details:

    Meet at Chester's Official Visitor Information Centre, Town Hall Square, Chester, Cheshire, CH1 2HJ

    Website

    Web Site

  6. The River Dee

    Chester

    The river is 70 miles long and stretches through Wales and Chester. On the bank of the river is the 'Groves', a paved promenade complete with bandstand, cafés, restaurants and public houses.

    Add The River Dee to your Itinerary

    The River Dee
    The River Dee
    The River Dee
    The River Dee

    The river is 70 miles long and stretches through Wales and Chester.

    On the bank of the river is the 'Groves', a paved promenade complete with bandstand, cafés, restaurants and public houses. Take a stroll along the riverbank or propel yourself in a motorboat, a rowing boat or a pedalo.

    Contact Details:

    The Groves, Chester, Cheshire, CH1 1SD
  7. The Grosvenor Shopping Centre

    Chester

    Please note some Grosvenor Shopping Centre retailers are operating reduced hours or different hours from those advertised.

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    The Grosvenor Shopping Centre, Chester

    **Please note some Grosvenor Shopping Centre retailers are operating reduced hours or different hours from those advertised.**

    The Grosvenor Shopping Centre offers a stylish and cosmopolitan way of shopping. Our wide range of retailers serve all your shopping needs, whether it be health and beauty, fashion or homeware items, jewellery or food. From Build-a-bear and Boss to well known high street clothing retailers including H&M, TKMaxx and L.K.Bennett there is something for everyone all under one roof. Costa Coffee is on hand for when you want to relax with friends and have a bite to eat in between your shopping, if you fancy Italian we have Piccolinos or for a treat try Millies Cookies. Monday - 9.00am - 5.30pm Tuesday - 9.00am - 5.30pm Wednesday - 9.00am - 5.30pm Thursday - 9.00am - 5.30pm Friday - 9.00am - 5.30pm Saturday - 9.00am - 5.30pm Sunday - 11.00am - 5.00pm Bank Holidays - 10.00am - 5.00pm There are some seasonal variations to these times. Please check with your favourite store as some shop times may vary.

    Contact Details:

    Pepper Street, Chester, Cheshire, CH1 1EA

    Tel:

    01244 342942

    Website

    Web Site

  8. Chester Zoo

    Chester

    A visit to Cheshire isn’t complete without a trip to the UK’s number one zoo. Chester Zoo is home to over 27,000 endangered and exotic animals based in beautiful, award-winning zoological gardens.

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    Lemur, Chester Zoo
    Giraffes, Chester Zoo
    Anoa, Chester Zoo
    Spider Monkey, Chester Zoo
    Lion Experience, Chester Zoo
    Lemur, Chester Zoo
    Giraffes, Chester Zoo
    Anoa, Chester Zoo
    Spider Monkey, Chester Zoo
    Lion Experience, Chester Zoo

    ** Visitor Attraction of the Year at the Marketing Cheshire Tourism Awards 2022/23 - Highly Commended **

    ** Best Tourism Marketing Project Award Winner at the Marketing Cheshire Tourism Awards 2022/23 **

    Chester Zoo is home to over 27,000 endangered and unusual animals based in beautiful, award-winning zoological gardens. With over 500 different animal species in our 128 acres of award-winning gardens, you’re sure to have great day out full of adventure where you’ll feel empowered and inspired to create a better world for wildlife.

    Bring your pride to see ours and visit our incredible Asiatic lions in their savannah habitat. Take a trip to Madagascar and wander through our lemur walkthrough habitat, then explore the dense jungles of South-East Asia by boat, and immerse yourself in the sights, sounds and smells of the Monsoon Forest.

    Come and see some of our newest and cutest arrivals, with many making their very first appearances, from the critically endangered cotton-top tamarin to the incredibly rare dusky pademelon.

    Stop for a bite at one of the many restaurants, cafes and kiosks located throughout the zoo! From classic family friendly dishes to tasty street food.

    If you’re looking for something extra special, our contemporary British pub The Oakfield, serves freshly prepared locally sourced food and hand-picked beers, wines and spirits – the perfect accompaniment to your zoo visit.

    Join our Zoo Rangers for a jam-packed programme of talks and family-fun events to top up your knowledge of incredible animals across the globe! What’s more, we have plenty of playgrounds and activities to keep the kids (and the kids at heart) happy all day long!

    Why not turn your zoo visit into an adventure and book one of our unique Experiences that give you the opportunity to get even closer to our animals and plants with exclusive access and feeding activities? You’ll also gain behind the scenes knowledge from our expert keepers.

    Large Attraction of the Year Gold Award Winner and Silver Award Winner for the Resillience and Innovation Award at the 2022 Visit England Awards for Excellence. 

     

    Discover our revolutionary new app, Wild Wander; where Pokémon Go meets rambling!

    Wild Wander, our exciting new app has been designed to connect people with nature through the digital world and encourage them to explore and protect the great outdoors. The app will allow users to explore four trails in the zoo’s Nature Recovery Corridor like never before: thriving with beautifully animated local species in augmented reality.

    Download from App Store

    Download from Google Play Store

    Contact Details:

    Upton by Chester, Chester, Cheshire, CH2 1EU

    Tel:

    01244 380280

    Website

    Web Site

  9. The Chester Grosvenor

    Chester

    Housed in an historic building with a black and white timbered façade, The Chester Grosvenor is situated in the centre of the beautiful Roman city of Chester.

    Add The Chester Grosvenor to your Itinerary

    The Chester Grosvenor, situated in the heart of beautiful Chester
    Luxurious bedrooms at the Chester Grosvenor Hotel
    The Chester Grosvenor Hotel, where each bedroom is individually designed and furnished
    Ensuite bathrooms at the Chester Grosvenor Hotel
    The Chester Grosvenor, situated in the heart of beautiful Chester
    Luxurious bedrooms at the Chester Grosvenor Hotel
    The Chester Grosvenor Hotel, where each bedroom is individually designed and furnished
    Ensuite bathrooms at the Chester Grosvenor Hotel

    The Hotel

    Housed in an historic building with a black and white timbered façade, The Chester Grosvenor is situated in the centre of the beautiful Roman city of Chester. Although the existing building dates back to 1865, there has been an inn on the site since the late sixteenth century. The five red star hotel is one of the city’s greatest landmarks, standing alongside the iconic Eastgate Clock. With attentive yet unobtrusive service, The Chester Grosvenor offers the quintessential luxury English experience.

    Bedrooms

    Bedrooms at The Chester Grosvenor offer the ultimate luxury and comfort to help you relax after exploring the charming city of Chester.  Each room has been individually designed and beautifully furnished with the finest fabrics to offer you a deeply sumptuous stay.  

    Spacious and adaptable, a suite is ideal if you would like to add an extra something special to your stay. In addition, most suites have walk-in separate shower facilities.

    The Spa at The Chester at the Chester Grosvenor

    Be pampered in the tranquil and soothing haven of The Spa at The Chester Grosvenor, where every detail has been designed to evoke a state of relaxation, vitality and wellbeing, from the heavenly Thermal Suite to our carefully selected product partner, ELEMIS.

    La Brasserie

    Offering modern, fresh cooking, La Brasserie’s vibrant 2 AA Rosette restaurant prepares beautiful dishes using flavours and ingredients from home and abroad. 

    A glamorous Champagne bar takes centre stage, serving everything from Cappuccinos to Cosmopolitans and an exquisite selection of Champagne. 

    The Arkle Bar and Lounge at the Chester Grosvenor

    The Arkle Bar and Lounge is a luxuriously comfortable area of understated elegance and sophistication. Discover our worldwide collection of over 40 gins, each paired with a tonic and garnish to match the profile of the gin or choose from a selection of interesting malts, vintage ports and a wide range of liqueurs. The Arkle Bar & Lounge is a connoisseur's delight.

    It is also the perfect spot for picking up the paper and enjoying morning coffee, light lunch or  afternoon tea.

    Meetings and Events

    The Chester Grosvenor has a variety of stunning event spaces, which set the scene for an unforgettable event. All of our function suites make use of the latest built in AV equipment, available for your use on a complimentary basis.

    Weddings at the Chester Grosvenor

    The award winning Chester Grosvenor combines breath-taking architecture with contemporary yet traditional interiors. Steeped in history dating back to the 18th century, the pillared entrance and black and white timbered exterior provide the perfect backdrop for a fairy tale wedding.  ‘The Gallery’ on the first floor landing boasts the original staircase where the grandeur of the 28,000 piece crystal chandelier offers the most memorable of settings for your wedding photographs. The Chester Grosvenor can accommodate wedding breakfasts and civil ceremonies from 2 to 240 guests. 

    Contact Details:

    Eastgate, Chester, Cheshire, CH1 1LT

    Tel:

    01244 324024

    Website

    Web Site

  10. Town Crier Proclamation at the Cross

    Chester

    A unique regular midday proclamation in Chester's historic centre, where Bridge Street meets Eastgate Street and Watergate Street which is marked by a stone pillar "The High Cross". The proclamation takes place Tuesday to Saturday, from 1 June to 4 September, at noon, at the High Cross, except on on Race Days: June 12, June 25, June 26, July 9, July 10 and August 21.

    Add Town Crier Proclamation at the Cross to your Itinerary

    The Chester Town Crier

    A unique regular midday proclamation in Chester's historic centre, where Bridge Street meets Eastgate Street and Watergate Street which is marked by a stone pillar "The High Cross". The proclamation takes place Tuesday to Saturday, from 1 June to 4 September, at noon, at the High Cross, except on  on Race Days: June 12, June 25, June 26, July 9, July 10 and August 21.

    Contact Details:

    The High Cross, Chester, Cheshire, CH1 2HS

    Website

    Web Site

Itinerary Distances

FromToDistance * (metric)
Chester Rows (53.18865,-2.89191)Roman Soldier Tours (53.19105,-2.89212)0.24
Roman Soldier Tours (53.19105,-2.89212)Chester Racecourse (53.18919,-2.89788)0.39
Chester Racecourse (53.18919,-2.89788)Chester Cathedral (53.19166,-2.89121)0.47
Chester Cathedral (53.19166,-2.89121)The Chester Tour (53.19134,-2.89346)0.14
The Chester Tour (53.19134,-2.89346)The River Dee (53.18752,-2.88307)0.73
The River Dee (53.18752,-2.88307)The Grosvenor Shopping Centre (53.18866,-2.89041)0.46
The Grosvenor Shopping Centre (53.18866,-2.89041)Chester Zoo (53.22551,-2.87758)3.77
Chester Zoo (53.22551,-2.87758)The Chester Grosvenor (53.19074,-2.8888)3.55
The Chester Grosvenor (53.19074,-2.8888)Town Crier Proclamation at the Cross (53.19134,-2.89346)0.29
Total Distance *10.04 miles
Estimated Journey Time19 minutes

* Approximate distance by road

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