All I Want for My Chester Christmas is...

Christmas is just around the corner, have you started your wish list yet? There are so many truly unique gift ideas on offer in Chester this Christmas, so here it goes.

All I want for my Chester Christmas is…

1) Tickets to a show at Storyhouse

Before Christmas bring the family to this year's pantomime, Sleeping Beauty, an unforgettable adventure that will transport you to a world of wonder, packed with pop favourites, audience interaction and dazzling dances. Step into the enchanting world of Jack Frost where children and grown ups become part of the story, enjoy carols with a curve from St Agnes Fountain or experience an intimate evening of acoustic music featuring top Roots, World, and Acoustic artists at the Blue lantern Sessions.

Or if you want something to look forward to after Christms book tickets to experience the magic of Meat Loaf’s greatest hits with an exhilarating two-hour show from Paradise Found, expect explosive visuals, powerhouse musicianship, and a live show that immerses you in the world of Meat Loaf. 

A brand new British musical based on David Baddiel’s bestselling book, with music by Dan Gillespie-Sells (Everybody’s Talking About Jamie), premiers at Storyhouse in February. The Parent Agency – The Musical appealing to anyone who is, or has been, a child. And also, to anyone who is, or has had, at least one parent.

The ever popular Six Musical also returns in March and if you are in need of a laugh Jason Manford, Ben Elton and Jenny Eclair are just some of the top comedians performing at Storyhouse in the new year. Book a show at Storyhouse ->

2) Gifts from Picturehouse
 

Do you know someone who loves the cinema? Did you know you can purchase e-gift membership for Picturehouse, Chester, which includes free tickets, discounts and plenty more for just £65. You can also buy vouchers from as little as £15 so that you can enjoy the latest blockbusters, out now is Heretic, Gladiator II, Red One, Paddington in Peru with Moana 2, Mufasa, Betterman and more coming soon. Buy cinema vouchers for Picturehouse ->

3) Adopt an animal at the Zoo

Adopt an animal from Chester Zoo today and you’ll be helping to fund the important work they do to protect habitats and the wildlife that relies on them. Choose from a wide range of species, from playful penguins to curious orangutans and towering giraffes, there are options suitable for both children and adults! Order your gift adoptions by Wednesday 18 December 2024 to receive them before Christmas. Adopt an animal at Chester Zoo ->

4) Neuhaus Belgian Chocolates from Bridge Street Café

Head to Bridge Street Cafe at Northgate by the market as you will find the most exquisite Neuhaus Belgian Chocolates available. The perfect treat for you or an ideal gift for the chocoholic in your life! 

5) A Cheshire Cheese Hamper from Cheese Shop

The Cheese Shop has been a source of speciality cheeses in Chester for 35 years. Over 200 different cow, goat and ewe cheeses are available; pasteurised, unpasteurised and vegetarian. Give the gift of cheese this year and choose from lovely selections of Cheese accompaniments and other delights from the shop, all bound together in various hampers, boxes and recycled brie lids, to cover all budgets and tastes from just £18. If you want a bespoke hamper put together call the shop. Or give them your budget and they can put together a wonderful selection, with all sorts of goodies and of course some cheese. The gift of cheese ->

8) A tipple from Chester Zoo

Chester Zoo has a brand new botanical alcohol range which includes Gin, Sloe Gin, Vodka and spiced rum. Every botanic incorporated into each flavour profile is sourced from the award-winning zoological gardens. The collection has been created using Sea Ridge Distillery’s own base Alcohol. This custom-made Alcohol provides the base for the gin and vodka products, with flavour profiles exclusive to Chester Zoo, resulting in a truly hand-crafted premium spirit range. Purchase them online or from the gift shop onsite at the zoo.

9) Booze from Chester Beer and Wine Shop

How amazing would it be to find a fantastic gift box filled with a dozen of your beer lover’s favourite tipples under the tree this Christmas?

You choose what goes in the box. Pales, IPA’s, stouts, Belgian? A bit of everything?? Let them know when you order and Dave, their Beer Guru, will happily fill your box with the recipients favourites, ready for you to bask in the glory of an amazing Christmas present. You can even get a beer advent calendar and a selection of Vegan, Gluten Free, low alcohol, organic and vegetarian beers. Find your gift here ->

* Always drink responsibly.

10) Blooms from Lise Florist in Chester Market

The first stall visitors see when entering the Chester Market is 'Lise' Florist and Flower Garden. Lisa Dean offers a fabulous colourful display of seasonal cut flowers for every occasion. Her skilled team can make up hand-tied bouquets for immediate purchase or delivery, in addition to this, shrubs, perennials and seasonal plants are also available.

11) Gifts for you dog

When searching for the perfect Christmas gift it's important not to forget your four-legged friends! When it comes to treating your furry friend, there is nowhere better the start than Digby and Champ in Chester Market. Digby & Champ offers exclusive ranges of dog care products, and was founded in 2022 by Will Mason, inspired by and named after his two Labrador dogs and their love for life. Will has now built a range of products including gorgeous collars and leads made from recycled leather off cuts, naturally shed dear antler which is perfect for dogs to chew while providing vitamins and minerals, alongside exciting grooming products, sustainable toys and even doggy roast dinners! Making Digby and Champ a haven for dog parents looking to spoil their pups.

12) A special version of a very popular board game

Have you heard?! Chester now has it's own edition of Monopoly! Launched at Chester Zoo this month it includes leading Chester landmarks such as Chester Zoo, the City Walls, Chester Cathedral, Chester Market, Eastgate Clock & more!! You can purchase your copy from Lee Louise, it will make a great Christmas present!
 

13)  Creative Cheer: Give the Gift of Art This Christmas

Discover the art gallery and studio of Julie Colclough, nestled on Chester's historic Rows. A celebrated professional artist, Julie has developed her distinctive style over a lifetime of creating exceptional works for international clients. Julie has paintings of Chester Cathedral, the River Dee, the Old Dee Bridge, the Eastgate Clock, Chester Racecourse, Watergate Street, and many views from The Walls and Chester Rows: all subjects within minutes of her art gallery. Although many of the original paintings have been snapped up by collectors, Julie offers most as signed limited edition prints. 

Or pop into Chester Visitor Information and pick up one of the many colourful pieces from Julie Littler. They have a collection of Littler Places gifts including cushions, notebooks and other gifts bringing a pop of colour to every area of the shop. Each piece features a rainbow as a symbol of hope and love in the world! 

14) The ultimate gift for a food fanatic

Chester is an incredible city to visit, and now we're giving foodies the perfect excuse to go with a choice of not one but two food tours. Chester on a Plate Tours offer numerous food and drink experiences, from girl's night out and brunch tours to brewery tours and even a Taste of India. When you book choose 'purchase as a gift voucher' to buy the perfect gift for the foodie in your life.

Or you can eat and explore your way around Chester with Gareth Boyd on his multi award-winning food tour. Savour the unique blend of history, food, and drink that each of these captivating tours has to offer. Explore through your taste buds and create unforgettable memories. 

15) Something different from Pars Kahrve

Turkey is a country full of colour, especially when it comes to its beautiful textiles and artisan goods. The Pars Bazaar, or market, celebrates the traditional crafting techniques from around the country and is proud to showcase the stunning mix of patterns and textures produced. 

Not only can you purchase stunning handmade vintage Kilim rugs, cushions, hand-beaded jewellery and gift hampers here, you can also settle down for some authentic food and hospitality in a home from home environment. Open every day for Kahvalti (breakfast), home-style lunches and desserts as well as Friday and Saturday evenings for late night Mezze. You will also find a great selection of Turkish drinks – from coffee through to wine and beer. Get your gift vouchers here ->

16) Words and Music

Giving vinyl records and books as gifts is a brilliant way to show you care. They’ve got that lovely mix of nostalgia, personal touch, and classic charm. Both can be really meaningful and easily tailored to match someone’s tastes, making them gifts they’ll remember for ages. Pop into Bookingham Palace or Amblongus Books for inspiration.

17) A pre loved gift from a charity shop

Buying pre-loved gifts from charity shops is a fantastic way to give thoughtfully while supporting a good cause. These shops are treasure troves of unique finds, from vintage books and records to beautiful homeware and quirky trinkets. Choosing second-hand gifts not only makes your present more one-of-a-kind but is also an eco-friendly option, reducing waste and promoting sustainability. Plus, the money you spend goes towards helping the charity's mission, so it’s a gift that gives twice—once to your loved one and again to a worthy cause.

17) A creative class at Pictura Studios

Pictura Studios, is a family-run art school established in 2018. The school is dedicated to providing a creative and nurturing environment for all ages and abilities. They believe that everyone has the potential to create beautiful art work, and strive to help students unlock their artistic talents. Discover your inner artist at Pictura Studios! You can purchase vouchers for Painting and Prosecco, Pottery wheel tasters or any amount to go towards other classes.

18) A luxurious Spa Day

Indulging in a spa day is a perfect way to treat yourself or a loved one to a day of relaxation, rejuvenation, and self-care. Whether it's a solo escape to unwind from the stress of daily life or a shared experience with someone special, a spa day offers an oasis of tranquility. Luxurious massages, soothing facials, and therapeutic treatments work wonders for both the body and mind, leaving you feeling refreshed and pampered. Choose from:

- Rowton Hall & Spa
- Carden Park Hotel & Spa
- Doubletree By Hilton
- Crowne Plaza
- Grosvenor Pulford Hotel & Spa
- The Chester Grosvenor
- Macdonald Craxton Wood Hotel

18) Afternoon Tea or a Tower Tour at Chester Cathedral

When visiting Chester a visit to our stunning Cathedral is a must. And it's home to Cafe 1092, set in the thirteenth century monks’ dining hall it's a Chester feature not to be missed. The stunning café is the perfect stop for coffee, lunch or Afternoon Tea.

The cafe includes a seventeenth-century tapestry on the west wall, paintings representing the Earls of Chester and the beautiful Creation Window depicting the six days of creation. Buy Afternoon Tea vouchers here ->

For deeper exploration and understanding of Chester Cathedral you can take one of the five tours. One of which is the Tower Tour, an hour long tour, where you’ll climb the Cathedral’s 216 steps to the top of the Tower, via various viewing galleries to admire breath-taking views of the Cathedral’s interior.

Along the way, you will catch inspiring views of the Cathedral from an elevated position (perfect photo opportunities!), discover lots about the history of our building and see a view of almost the full length of the Cathedral. Purchase gift vouchers for Tower Tour here ->

19) Take a tour of Chester

Talking of tours, there’s a great selection of tours available and with the planning done for you it’s the more relaxing way to enjoy the sights and sounds of Chester. If you would like more help with booking your tour, take a trip to our Visitor Information Centre located at the Town Hall.

Get up close and discover the inner secrets and history of Chester, covering nearly 2000 years on a tour of the city, on foot, with a real-life 'Roman', on a sightseeing bus or by boat!

Enjoy not only the history of the city but listen out for many intruiging anecdotes which have all played their part in making Chester what it is today. You'll be amazed at how much history there is to explore. See the range of walking tours available here ->

20) Something designer from Cheshire Oaks

Visiting Cheshire Oaks Designer Outlet is a shopper’s paradise, offering a vibrant blend of style, savings, and convenience. As the largest designer outlet in the UK, it boasts over 150 stores, featuring luxury and high-street brands at discounted prices year-round. The open-air layout adds to the charm, with picturesque walkways and cozy seating areas, making it an ideal destination for a leisurely day out. From fashion and accessories to homeware and beauty products, there’s something for everyone. Complementing the shopping experience, an array of restaurants and cafes provides the perfect spots to recharge. Whether you’re hunting for bargains or indulging in a retail therapy session, Cheshire Oaks delivers a delightful mix of luxury and affordability.

21) A River Cruise with ChesterBoat

A cruise on the River Dee is one of the most relaxing things to do in Chester.

Choose a Half-hour City Cruise to take in views of the stunning riverside homes and gardens, with a commentary detailing Chester’s rich Roman, medieval, and industrial history. Or leave the city behind on a Two-hour Iron Bridge Cruise through the Duke of Westminster’s Eaton Estate – look out for wildlife such as cormorants and kingfishers. Find out more about ChesterBoat ->

22) A magical round of golf at Hole in Wand

Visit Chester’s most magical new attraction and join the quest to find The Unicorns Secret! The Hole In Wand Wizard Golf is located on Eastgate Street near the Chester Cross and where brave wizards will take on nine magical mini golf holes.

Get set for a magical adventure, along the way there will be a twists and turns as you solve the quest visiting the famous Chester Cathedral, Eastgate Clock and the spirit of Alderley Edge.

At the end of your adventure you will find out if you have the magical powers of a Serpent, Basilisk, Unicorn or Wizard and every player will receive a magic potion gift to take home worth £3.49

23) Give the Gift of the Axe-perience

Visit Axt Haus – Chester’s only German themed indoor Axe Throwing Venue. For axe-enthusiasts and bratwurst lovers alike– it;s the ideal destination for a blend of axe throwing and German food and drink. 

It’s a truly unique experience you won’t want to miss - if Axe Throwing is not for you come and try a pint of German beer and food. Buy gift vouchers for Axt Haus ->

24) Indulge in sumptuous Afternoon tea

Afternoon tea is a quintessentially British experience, blending charm, history, and indulgence in one delightful outing. Nestled in the heart of this historic city, tea rooms and luxury hotels offer a range of experiences, from classic to contemporary. Enjoy freshly baked scones with clotted cream and jam, delicate finger sandwiches, and an array of pastries, all served on elegant tiered trays. Whether treating someone special or simply treating yourself, afternoon tea in Chester is a sophisticated way to savor the city’s rich culture and culinary delights. Find some of the best places in Chester for Afternoon Tea ->

So there's our list. Support local shops and businesses in Chester this Christmas!