Itinerary Planner

A Romantic Weekend in Chester

A Romantic Weekend in Chester

As one of the most picturesque cities in the country, Chester is the ideal place to visit for your weekend romantic getaway.

A romantic weekend would not be complete without a handy guide. Here you can see an itinerary and plan for your weekend of romance in Chester.

Walk the Walls

Covering over 2.2 miles throughout the heart of Chester lies the remains of the Roman walls – the most complete city walls in England. There a variety of fascinating sights throughout the walk, such as the Eastgate Clock, built in 1897 to commemorate the jubilee of Queen Victoria, the remains of a Roman amphitheatre and Chester’s internationally renowned Racecourse

Day 1

Begin your trip with a browse around the vast collection of shops in Chester, in a unique setting known the world over. The perfect starting point for shopping is the Rows. You can continue your shopping with a visit to the Grosvenor Shopping Centre, located next to the Rows. 

A romantic meal will provide the backdrop to the start of your visit to Chester. You will definitely be spoilt for choice with the vast array of restaurants and bars for varying tastes. These include traditional English pubs as well as Michelin starred restaurants. Cocktail bars line Foregate Street, the prominent high street throughout Chester. These include well known chains such as Revolution and the Slug and Lettuce as well as independent bars such as The Guild, The SuburbsLiquor & Co and Bar Lounge.

Day 2

In Chester, you are never far away from the River Dee. A walk along the river at the Groves gives you the chance to start a relaxing day.  Cross over The Queen’s Park Bridge from the city centre and you should come across ‘the Meadows’ green fields. You could even continue the slow pace with an unwinding trip on a sightseeing boat, such as the Lady Diana or Mark Twain boats. 

A romantic trip to Chester would not be complete without a stroll through Grosvenor Park, a short walk from the river and the Groves. The ornamental park has been charming Chester’s residents and visitors alike since Victorian times. A walk through this beautiful landscape will provide the perfect alternative to the hustle and bustle of the city. 

Keep the romance flowing with Afternoon Tea.  There are a number of places where you could enjoy your Afternoon Tea. For example, you could visit Oddfellows on Lower Bridge Street, The Chester Grosvenor, Macdonald New Blossoms Hotel as well as the Queen at Chester Hotel.

Other suggestions

Beaches, mountains & rolling countryside

Chester is in a unique location in the North West, situated closely to a number of prominent attractions in both Liverpool, the Wirral, Cheshire and further afield into Manchester. The Wirral Peninsula is home to many stunning places of natural beauty, including beaches, towns and villages. You could even spend a day at West Kirby, which can be easily reached through a train from Chester via Liverpool. 

Gardens of Distinction 

Some of the finest gardens in the country are situated in the county of Cheshire. From prestigious stately homes to secret gardens, you can find the list of Cheshire’s Gardens of Distinction here

Shopping

The retail therapy does not need to end after your visit to Chester. A 15-minute drive will take you to Cheshire Oaks Designer Outlet, home to 145 shops offering high street and luxury brands at up to 60% off the retail price. A short train trip to Liverpool or Manchester will also fulfil all your retail needs. 

Product Information

  1. Chester Walls Walk

    Northgate Street, Chester

    Up for a challenge? Looking to impress on Instagram? The Guild of Chester Tour Guides is launching a brand new guided Walls Walk in time for Cheshire Day (30th March)

    Add Chester Walls Walk to your Itinerary

    Up for a challenge? Looking to impress on Instagram? The Guild of Chester Tour Guides is launching a brand new guided Walls Walk in time for Cheshire Day (30th March). Chester boasts the most complete circuit of city walls in the country, a popular promenade today with views on both sides across the many delights this charming historic city enjoys. We can now offer visitors and locals alike the opportunity to complete the full 2-mile circuit of the city Walls on a guided walking tour, and there’s even a well-earned “I Walked the Walls” certificate to collect at the end. And there’s more! Kids go free with an accompanying adult and will be given a mini “treasure hunt” to complete along the way. So, while the youngsters are busy trying to spot the answers, the adults can focus as the Guide unravels Chester’s incredible 2,000 years of history. From the magnificent vantage point of the city Walls, you will be shown where evidence of Chester’s fascinating story can still be seen, from the Roman fortress right through to the present day. Now that’s got to be worthy of Instagram . . . !

    Chester’s guided Walls Walk takes place every Saturday afternoon at 2.30pm, starting at the Town Hall Visitor Information Centre on Northgate Street. Allow approximately two hours for the full circuit. Tickets are available on the day direct from the Guide: £10 per person; up to two under 16s free with accompanying adult.

    Please note, there are multiple steps along the way.

    Check our website for the latest information: www.chestertours.org.uk

    The Walls Walks takes place every Saturday afternoon at 2.30pm until the end of October 2022. Allow approximately two hours.

    Meet your Guide at the Town Hall Visitor Information Centre on Northgate Street in time for a 2.30pm start.

    Tickets are available direct from the Guide on the day: £10 adults; up to two under 16s go free with an accompanying adult.

    Not suitable for wheelchairs, pushchairs or those with walking difficulties due to multiple steps along the way. We recommend The Chester Tour as an alternative which takes place every day at 10.30am and again at 2pm from Good Friday until end October. Tickets as above, direct from the Guide on the day: £10 adults; up to two under 16s go free with an accompanying adult.

    Any queries to chesterwalkingtours@gmail.com

    Website: www.chestertours.org.uk

     

     

    Contact Details:

    Chester Visitor Information Centre, Town Hall Square, Northgate Street, Chester, Cheshire, CH1 2HJ

    Website

    Web Site

  2. Chester Racecourse

    Chester

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

    Add Chester Racecourse to your Itinerary

    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

  3. 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!

    Add Chester Rows to your Itinerary

    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

  4. The Grosvenor Shopping Centre

    Chester

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

    Add The Grosvenor Shopping Centre to your Itinerary

    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

  5. 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
  6. Grosvenor Park

    Chester

    Grosvenor Park is a grade II* registered, green flag award winning park dating back to 1867 covering 20 acres. It's the main ornamental park in Chester whose layout was designed by Edward Kemp.

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    View of the River Dee from Grosvenor Park. Photo credit Jeff Buck
    Family fun on Grosvenor Park Miniature Railway
    Grosvenor Park Miniature Railway
    Grosvenor Park Open Air Theatre
    View of the River Dee from Grosvenor Park. Photo credit Jeff Buck
    Family fun on Grosvenor Park Miniature Railway
    Grosvenor Park Miniature Railway
    Grosvenor Park Open Air Theatre

    Grosvenor Park is a grade II* registered, green flag award winning park dating back to 1867 covering 20 acres. It's the main ornamental park in Chester whose layout was designed by Edward Kemp. It is extremely popular with residents and visitors to the city alike. Situated just outside the city walls and overlooking the River Dee its one of the finest examples of Victorian parks in the UK. With formal avenues lined with trees, statues, large sweeping lawns surrounded with ornamental shrub beds and display bedding, for which the park has become well known. The bedding displays are planted twice yearly to provide a spectacular and colourful display throughout the Spring and Summer months. There are a number of restored, newly introduced and Grade II* listed features to explore all year round including the Second Marquess of Westminster Statue, Billy Hobby’s Well Community Garden, St Mary’s Nunnery Arch, the Quarry Garden and more. 

    The park is a great place to visit with the kids as its home to the popular miniature railway and a great play area. Enjoy a fun filled train ride, open during weekends, public holidays and school holidays Feb to Nov and weekends Dec to Jan. Summer: 10.30am to 5pm. Winter: 11.00am to 4pm. The play area is in a fully accessible area providing play and exploration for everyone. It was designed by local artist, Andrew Small using a range of natural materials.

    The park is home to the Lodge, now the Lodge Cafe, set in landscaped grounds offering light lunches, refreshments and even afternoon tea. Open Monday – Friday: 9am – 4.30pm and Saturday and Sunday: 9am – 5pm. 

    Every summer the team behind Storyhouse bring their performances to the park with Grosvenor Park Open Theatre. The sounds of popping corks, picnics unpacked and happy audiences are now the defining sounds of Chester's summer. And a great way to experience the park.

    However, despite this annual frenzy of activity, Grosvenor Park continues to retain its peaceful character and charm with visitors enjoying more informal activities in this attractive setting.

    Contact Details:

    Grosvenor Park Road, Chester, Cheshire, CH1 1QQ

    Tel:

    0300 123 7026

    Website

    Web Site

  7. Macdonald New Blossoms Hotel

    Chester

    Find Chester’s historic city centre on your doorstep when staying in New Blossoms, with elegant tradition and contemporary comfort in which to return to after time spent exploring famous Roman and medieval landmarks or enjoying some retail therapy.

    Add Macdonald New Blossoms Hotel to your Itinerary

    A suite at Macdonald New Blossoms Hotel, Chester
    A double room at Macdonald New Blossoms Hotel, Chester
    The bar at Macdonald New Blossoms Hotel, Chester
    A meeting room at Macdonald New Blossoms Hotel, Chester
    at Macdonald New Blossoms Hotel, Chester exterior
    A suite at Macdonald New Blossoms Hotel, Chester
    A double room at Macdonald New Blossoms Hotel, Chester
    The bar at Macdonald New Blossoms Hotel, Chester
    A meeting room at Macdonald New Blossoms Hotel, Chester
    at Macdonald New Blossoms Hotel, Chester exterior

    Find Chester’s historic city centre on your doorstep when staying in New Blossoms, with elegant tradition and contemporary comfort in which to return to after time spent exploring famous Roman and medieval landmarks or enjoying some retail therapy.

    From its enviable position near the impressive Roman Amphitheatre and pleasant walks along the picturesque banks of the River Dee, New Blossoms provides everything you need for a memorable stay in one of the most captivating short break destinations in England.

    Whether you’re looking to treat your partner to a romantic weekend away in the city or wish to explore the area as a family, there’s plenty of activity suiting all generations and holiday types - with attractive restaurants, sightseeing tours and iconic attractions such as Chester Zoo all easily accessible during your stay.

    Having opened in 1650, it’s safe to say the hotel has played an intrinsic role in maintaining the city as a haven for keen history fans and travellers alike when seeking an authentic urban space priding itself on its past - with a visit here representing a journey through time, as you take in ancient architecture at every turn.

    Scale the famous city walls, take a glimpse at the Eastgate Clock Tower as one of the most photographed clocks in the country and enlist a centurion or Roman soldier to guide you through the area as they portray how life would have been for its past inhabitants.

    Once your day of adventure is complete, the inviting Lounge Bar at New Blossoms will be well-stocked and ready for the talented bar staff to prepare something refreshing from a comprehensive drinks menu including everything from dazzling cocktails to soft drinks for the kids – as you settle into the cosy seating area and relax.

      It’s then time to make your way up to your comfortable accommodation, where you can switch off after taking in the local nightlife or horse racing at Chester Racecourse, with excellent en-suite facilities including an inviting tub and luxury ELEMIS toiletries, free Wi-Fi and graceful furniture to complete your home from home.

    When staying for a special occasion, make sure to upgrade to a Deluxe Room or Suite, with additional lounge area space, music docking station and fluffy bathrobes creating the ideal setting to spoil someone on their birthday or as part of an anniversary surprise.

    Awake the next morning and stay a little while as you tuck into a delicious cooked or continental breakfast from the dining area at New Blossoms. Plus, stay for a decadent take on the afternoon tea pastime over lunch before venturing out once again into the uniquely fascinating city of Chester and all its undoubted thrills.

    Contact Details:

    St Johns Street, Chester, Cheshire, CH1 1HL

    Tel:

    0344 8799113

    Website

    Web Site

  8. 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

  9. Cheshire Oaks Designer Outlet

    Ellesmere Port

    Trendsetters, foodies, label lovers, it’s time to make some noise for the infamous McArthurGlen Designer Outlet, Cheshire Oaks.

    Add Cheshire Oaks Designer Outlet to your Itinerary

    Cheshire Oaks Designer Outlet
    Kate Spade at Cheshire Oaks Designer Outlet
    25 new designer and premium brands at Cheshire Oaks Designer Outlet
    Burberry at Cheshire Oaks Designer Outlet
    The new and improved McArthurGlen Designer Outlet Cheshire Oaks
    Cheshire Oaks Designer Outlet
    Kate Spade at Cheshire Oaks Designer Outlet
    25 new designer and premium brands at Cheshire Oaks Designer Outlet
    Burberry at Cheshire Oaks Designer Outlet
    The new and improved McArthurGlen Designer Outlet Cheshire Oaks

    Discover a host of premium services at Cheshire Oaks Designer Outlet.

    Make your day even easier: from booking appointments at your favourite brands so you can shop at the most convenient time for you, shop handsfree with Dropit who can collect and safely store your shopping bags and you can also reserve your own parking space, discover your new favourite services to brighten your day.

    Trendsetters, foodies, label lovers, it’s time to make some noise for the infamous McArthurGlen Designer Outlet, Cheshire Oaks. So what’s the latest? Well, MORE. There are more stores, more choice and much more to discover. The open air shopping centre is home to over 140 designer and premium brands, offering up to 60% off RRP. Not to mention, they’ve made your day out even easier with free parking, handsfree shopping and extended opening hours. It doesn’t stop there. The new facilities also include a brand new play area and Under the Oak festival, including a rooftop terrace just in time for the summer months, ready to unwind with a cocktail and street food.

    Fashion lovers, rejoice! There’s hundreds of brands to shop at McArthurGlen Designer Outlet Cheshire Oaks. From iconic designer brands such as Burberry and Polo Ralph Lauren to everyday leisurewear from Nike and Adidas. Get a taste for luxury at PINKO, or stock up on signature underwear and more at Calvin Klein. Check out Jigsaw for this season’s trends, must-have footwear at Kurt Geiger, Tommy Hilfiger jeans, Mulberry for all your accessories and elevated basics at Levi’s too. And if all that wasn’t enough, the coolest high-end streetwear waits for you at one of the centre’s newest brand’s, Champion.

    Stay connected and fully charged with complimentary wi-fi and portable phone chargers, plus if you’re shopping in a group of 10 or more, receive an additional 10% off through the McArthurGlen Club. Visit Guest Services to activate before shopping.

     

    Contact Details:

    Kinsey Road, Ellesmere Port, Cheshire, CH65 9JJ

    Tel:

    0151 348 5600

    Website

    Web Site

Itinerary Distances

FromToDistance * (metric)
Chester Walls Walk (53.19173,-2.89234)Chester Racecourse (53.18919,-2.89788)0.42
Chester Racecourse (53.18919,-2.89788)Chester Rows (53.18865,-2.89191)0.36
Chester Rows (53.18865,-2.89191)The Grosvenor Shopping Centre (53.18866,-2.89041)0.09
The Grosvenor Shopping Centre (53.18866,-2.89041)The River Dee (53.18752,-2.88307)0.46
The River Dee (53.18752,-2.88307)Grosvenor Park (53.19052,-2.88297)0.3
Grosvenor Park (53.19052,-2.88297)Macdonald New Blossoms Hotel (53.19075,-2.88791)0.3
Macdonald New Blossoms Hotel (53.19075,-2.88791)The Chester Grosvenor (53.19074,-2.8888)0.05
The Chester Grosvenor (53.19074,-2.8888)Cheshire Oaks Designer Outlet (53.26362,-2.88124)7.32
Total Distance *9.29 miles
Estimated Journey Time18 minutes

* Approximate distance by road

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