Itinerary Planner

A Romantic Weekend Getaway in Chester

A Perfect Blend of History, Relaxation, and Style

For couples looking for a romantic and memorable weekend escape, Chester is an idyllic destination. With its rich history, beautiful architecture, and romantic atmosphere, it’s the perfect place to unwind, explore, and create lasting memories together. Whether you’re history buffs, nature lovers, or shopaholics, Chester offers something special for every couple. Here’s how to make the most of a romantic weekend break in this picturesque city.

Day 1: Explore the City’s History and Scenic Sights
 

A stroll through Grosvenor Park in Chester offers a peaceful retreat from the hustle and bustle. Situated alongside the River Dee, the park is a blend of well-maintained gardens, tree-lined avenues, and calm lakeside views. As you wander through, you'll come across colourful flowerbeds, small pavilions, and quiet spots ideal for sitting and enjoying a moment of tranquillity. With its mix of Victorian design and natural beauty, the park is a lovely setting for a relaxed walk or to simply sit by the water and watch the world go by. 

After your stroll, head down to the river for a relaxing River Cruise with ChesterBoat, the perfect way to experience Chester from a whole new perspective. Drift along the scenic River Dee as you relax and take in the stunning views of the city’s historic architecture, lush landscapes, and wildlife. You’ll enjoy a peaceful journey along the water, with knowledgeable guides sharing the rich history of the area. The gentle pace of the boat allows you to unwind, making it an ideal way to spend quality time together, soak in the beauty of Chester, and enjoy a tranquil moment on the river.

Afterward, head out on a leisurely walk along Chester’s famous Roman Walls. These ancient walls are the most complete city walls in England covering over 2.2 miles of the city. Offering stunning views of the city, the river, and the surrounding countryside, providing a peaceful escape and a sense of history as you stroll hand-in-hand. As you walk, take in the city’s unique blend of Roman ruins, medieval gates, and quirky streets.

Time for lunch, choose from one of the many cafes and restaurants or head to Chester Market where you can choose from a range of cuisines all under one roof. Or to make your day even more special, treat yourselves to an indulgent afternoon tea at one of Chester’s charming venues. 

Afterward, explore the Chester Rows - unique, covered walkways that line the city’s main streets. These medieval shopping galleries are perfect for browsing charming boutiques, picking up handmade gifts, or enjoying a quiet coffee in one of the city’s cosy cafés. 

Time for dinner. Chester is home to a fantastic array of dining options, perfect for a memorable evening out. For a special treat, Twenty Eight offers a stylish, contemporary setting and serves up mouth-watering dishes with a modern twist. 

For those in search of a more relaxed atmosphere with a dash of Mediterranean flair, Artezzan is a charming choice. Known for its vibrant and flavoursome menu, the restaurant blends fresh, local ingredients with Mediterranean influences, offering everything from tapas to wood-fired pizzas. 

If you're after a cosy, more informal dining experience, Cosy Club offers just that. With its inviting, eclectic interior and menu full of comfort food favourites, it's the ideal spot for a casual dinner Whether you’re in the mood for a hearty burger, a fresh salad, or something a little more indulgent, Cosy Club’s relaxed atmosphere and delicious offerings are sure to please.

For a dining experience with a touch of sophistication, North Light is an excellent choice. This stylish restaurant serves a menu full of seasonal British dishes, crafted with locally sourced ingredients. Whether you’re enjoying a delicate starter or a hearty main, the elegant setting and impeccable service make for a truly enjoyable evening.

And if you're looking for a unique dining experience, The Forge offers a great option. Known for its trendy atmosphere and innovative menu, The Forge serves up modern British cuisine with creative twists. It’s an ideal place for foodies who enjoy something a bit different, with a menu that showcases bold flavours and locally sourced ingredients.

End the Day with a Cosy Stay
 

After a day of exploring, unwind at one of Chester’s inviting hotels or bed and breakfasts. For a luxurious and romantic experience, stay at The Grosvenor Pulford Hotel & Spa, where you can relax in a beautiful room, unwind in the spa, and even enjoy a couple’s treatment. Stay at Cheshire's Large Hotel of the Year 2024, The Chester Grosvenor is a five red star hotel and 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.

At the heart of historic Chester, Hotel Indigo brings the quirky luxury of the internationally renowned brand to the city with public spaces and rooms inspired by the local neighbourhood. Hotel Indigo Chester combines the local character and charm with vibrant colours and textures to give the hotel a residential look and feel. 

Both the DoubleTree by Hilton and the Crowne Plaza offer excellent accommodations with a touch of luxury, ideal for a comfortable and memorable stay.

The DoubleTree by Hilton is a modern, stylish hotel located just outside the city centre. Known for its welcoming atmosphere, the hotel greets guests with a signature warm cookie upon arrival, setting the tone for a relaxing stay. With spacious rooms, an on-site restaurant serving delicious meals, and a fully-equipped fitness centre, the DoubleTree provides everything you need for a restful stay. 

For those seeking a more elevated experience, the Crowne Plaza Chester is a fantastic option. Set in a beautiful Georgian building with a contemporary twist, the Crowne Plaza combines historic charm with modern amenities. Guests can unwind in stylish rooms, enjoy the relaxing spa and fitness facilities, or dine in the restaurant. The hotel is ideally located within walking distance of Chester’s famous Roman Walls, the River Dee, and the city’s vibrant shopping and dining scene.

Day 2: Discover Hidden Gems and Indulge in Fine Dining
 

On your second day, take some time to explore Chester Cathedral. This awe-inspiring building, dating back to the 10th century, offers a peaceful sanctuary for reflection and awe. Don’t forget to take a moment to admire the intricate stained-glass windows and the impressive architecture. For an extra special experience, book a cathedral tour and learn about its fascinating past. Or for those a bit more daring, head up 216 steps to the roof on a tower tour, where you can take in the view encompassing one city, two countries and five counties! 

A visit to Storyhouse is the perfect addition to any romantic weekend in Chester. This cultural gem, housed in a stunning, restored Art Deco building, offers a unique and intimate setting for enjoying live theatre, film, and music. Whether you're a fan of classic plays, comedy, contemporary performances, or cinematic experiences, there's something special about sharing a night out at Storyhouse with your partner.

You can start your visit with a pre-show drink in the cosy, atmospheric bar, which serves a selection of cocktails, wines, and light bites. The building itself exudes charm, with its elegant design creating a relaxed and welcoming atmosphere that sets the stage for a memorable night out.

Once you’re settled into the theatre, enjoy a captivating performance in one of Storyhouse’s two main venues. From thought-provoking dramas to lighter comedies and everything in between, the intimate setting means that no matter where you sit, you'll feel connected to the action.

After the show, for an intimate dinner, head to one of Chester’s many restaurants. Sticky Walnut is a local favourite, known for its delicious, seasonal menu and laid-back yet stylish atmosphere. With a focus on modern British cuisine, Sticky Walnut offers a range of dishes crafted from locally sourced ingredients, with flavours that are both fresh and inventive. 

La Brasserie has been a firm favourite on Chester’s dining scene for over 20 years. In 2018 there was a contemporary re-design, while still continuing to stand the test of time with the same impeccable service for which The Chester Grosvenor has been renowned for since 1865. Offering modern, fresh cooking, La Brasserie’s vibrant 2 AA Rosette restaurant prepares beautiful dishes using flavours and ingredients from home and abroad.

If you're after something a bit more vibrant and relaxed, Chez Jules is a charming French bistro located just a short walk from the city centre. With its lively atmosphere and hearty menu, Chez Jules is perfect for a casual yet delicious meal. 

A romantic weekend in Chester is the perfect combination of history, relaxation, adventure, and style. With scenic walks along the Roman Walls, peaceful boat trips on the River Dee, indulgent afternoon teas, and the opportunity to shop along the unique two tiered rows, you’ll find plenty to do and see together.