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 Suburbs, Liquor & 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.
Item |
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Chester Walls Walk |
Chester Racecourse |
Chester Rows |
The Grosvenor Shopping Centre |
The River Dee |
Grosvenor Park |
Macdonald New Blossoms Hotel |
The Chester Grosvenor |
Cheshire Oaks Designer Outlet |
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)
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
Chester
Chester Racecourse is the oldest Racecourse in Britain & the oldest in the world still in operation.
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. Tickets and badges for 2021 fixtures from 25 June are now available to buy.
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!
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.
Chester
Please note some Grosvenor Shopping Centre retailers are operating reduced hours or different hours from those advertised.
**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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Chester
Macdonald New Blossoms Hotel is a stylish 67 bedroom hotel in the heart of the historic City of Chester, situated on the famous City Walls and near the Eastgate Clock Tower, said to be the second most photographed clock in England.
As well as benfitting from the Eat Out to Help Out scheme, diners will receive either a complimentary glass of Prosecco or free dessert. Why not add a room for just £50* for after your sumptuous meal?
Indulge in Afternoon Tea Monday-Wednesday and save £8.75 per person.
Macdonald New Blossoms Hotel is a stylish 67 bedroom hotel in the heart of the historic City of Chester, situated on the famous City Walls and near the Eastgate Clock Tower, said to be the second most photographed clock in England.
First opened in 1650, you won't find another more historical hotel in Chester, but you will find the hotel's period charm blends perfectly with modern luxury, creating the perfect environment to relax and unwind.
The hotel has the perfect location to sample all the delights that Chester has to offer including shopping, Chester nightlife, Dee River cruises, the famous Chester Racecourse along with historical attractions such as The Rows and City Walls. A 15 minute trip will take you to Chester Oaks Designer Outlet or Chester Zoo.
The guest bedrooms at Macdonald New Blossoms Hotel provide the ideal place to rest your head after a day's sightseeing, shopping or doing business in Chester.
All bedrooms have large, comfortable beds and excellent en suite facilities with luxury Elemis toiletries. The rooms' original Victorian features are complemented with free WiFi, flat-screen televisions and elegant furnishings. Superior rooms provide extra space and comfort, whilst the spacious suites give you even more room to relax.
The elegant, stylish and flexible function suites teamed with a city centre location, provide the perfect environment for a celebration or wedding. The event promise will make sure you get the environment and dedicated team to meet all of your needs.
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.
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.
Ellesmere Port
Trendsetters, foodies, label lovers, it’s time to make some noise for the infamous 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.
From | To | Distance * (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 Time | 18 minutes |
* Approximate distance by road