Think of Chester and the first thing that may come to mind is its history. In this city, you’re never far from remnants of Britain’s storied past and you don’t have to look very far to find fascinating evidence of just about every period of our nation’s history. From the Roman foundations of the city’s walls, the medieval Rows and Cathedral, to the Tudor racecourse and black and white facades, and Victorian Railway Station, Chester is proud of its heritage and visitors will marvel at the range of fascinating stories the city holds. So, whatever your historic interest, Chester has it all. You can delve deeper into the abundant history of Chester through a range of history and heritage experiences. From touring the city with a Roman Centurion to exploring the history of medicine and plague in the city, these experiences will make your city break truly historic.
Chester was deemed by Professor Alice Roberts as the “Most Roman” city in the UK – and for good reason. You can still see the Roman foundations of the city’s walls, it’s home to the largest amphitheatre in the UK, and evidence of the Roman fort can be found in all types of places, including in some of the shops. With Roman Tours you will be guided by a friendly, knowledgeable and very authentic Roman Centurion through Chester’s infamous Roman past. This is a unique experience where you’ll learn a lot and see the city in a whole new light, with your guide demystifying the Roman remains in the city. Chester is famous for these Roman tours and it’s a great chance to grab a selfie with a real Roman!
Perhaps a little less well known, but still fascinating is Chester’s Medieval history. One of the most obvious examples of this period are the city’s Rows – the two-tiered walkways which today house shops, bars cafes and restaurants. With a Medieval Tour you’ll be escorted around Chester by an authentic medieval soldier and learn about what life was like in the city in and around the year 1403, highlighting significant events of the time. You’ll explore landmarks like the city walls, the Rows, the Roman amphitheatre (you will be surprised what it was used for in the medieval period), Chester’s first Cathedral St. John’s and will finish at the River Dee looking over to Handbridge. The is great opportunity to experience Chester’s medieval past with a truly unique guide!
On the historic Rows and within the 16th Century St Michael’s Church you’ll find Sick to Death – one of Chester’s latest historical attractions with some quirky ways to explore the history of medicine in the city. With interactive exhibitions and displays you can explore Chester’s dark past. Why not try performing your own autopsy, learn about the plague and plague doctors in Chester, or enter Diagnosis Alley – where you’ll have to avoid deadly diseases. This is history come to life in some truly weird and wonderful (and at times a little gross) ways – definitely not to be missed if you’re a fan of the macabre side of history!
With all the centuries of history within these city walls, there are bound to be a few ghosts. Chester is notoriously haunted and a great way to spend a night in the city is by exploring some of the most haunted spots with a friendly and knowledgeable guide to tell some of the ghoulish tales of soe of the city’s most infamous ghosts and the history surrounding them. Leaving at 7:30pm from the Visitor Information Centre on Fridays and Saturdays, Chester’s Ghost Tours are always popular and can be both a good laugh, or something a little spookier.
Secure your place on these historic experiences by booking on our website and if you’re in need of further inspiration, Click Here
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