Top 10 Things to do in Chester

Things to do in Chester

Welcome to beautiful Chester, a city that is steeped in history and culture. Nestled within the picturesque Cheshire countryside, this charming city boasts an array of exciting activities and attractions for visitors of all ages. Whether you’re a fan of Roman architecture or wildlife encounters, Chester has something for everyone. Ready to explore!

1. Chester City Walls

Chester City Walls are a must-see attraction for any visitor to the city. These ancient walls have stood strong for over 2,000 years and offer stunning views of Chester’s historic centre. Walking along the walls is like stepping back in time, as you can witness the remnants of Roman, medieval and Victorian architecture throughout your journey.

The best way to start your walk along the wall is at Eastgate Clock, one of Chester’s most iconic landmarks. From there, you’ll travel around two miles through towers and gates that were once used to protect this magnificent city from invaders.

One highlight on your wall walking tour is King Charles Tower which offers breath taking panoramic views across Chester Racecourse and beyond. You’ll also discover St John’s Church which dates back to Saxon times before making your way onto Water Tower Street – another important landmark in Chester’s history.

Visiting Chester City Walls should be at the top of anyone’s itinerary when they come here because it truly encapsulates what makes this city so special: its rich history intertwined with enchanting modern culture.

2. University of Chester

The University of Chester is one of the oldest higher education institutions in the UK, with a history dating back to 1839. The main campus is located in the heart of Chester and offers a wide range of undergraduate and postgraduate courses.

One thing that sets the University of Chester apart from other universities is its commitment to student support. With small class sizes and dedicated staff, students receive individual attention and are given every opportunity to excel academically.

In addition to academic excellence, there are plenty of extracurricular activities available for students at the university. Sports teams, societies, and volunteering opportunities make it easy for students to get involved on campus and meet new people.

The university also boasts modern facilities including state-of-the-art lecture halls, libraries, science laboratories as well as excellent accommodation options both on-campus or nearby locations

If you’re visiting Chester or considering studying here- be sure not to miss out on exploring this historic institution!

3. Grosvenor Park

Grosvenor Park is a stunning oasis of greenery in the heart of Chester. This beautifully maintained park offers visitors an opportunity to relax and enjoy nature at its finest. The park features lush lawns, colourful flower beds, ornamental shrubs and trees that provide ample shade on hot summer days.

One of Grosvenor Park’s most popular attractions is its miniature railway. Visitors can take a ride on this charming train which takes them around the perimeter of the park while providing magnificent views of the surrounding landscape.

In addition to picturesque scenery and exciting rides, Grosvenor Park also has several play areas for children with swings, slides and other equipment suitable for all ages. There are even designated picnic areas where families can enjoy a leisurely lunch or snack amidst beautiful surroundings.

For those who appreciate art and culture, there is also an outdoor theatre within the park that hosts various performances throughout the year ranging from Shakespearean plays to contemporary dramas. This provides an excellent opportunity to experience live entertainment in a unique setting surrounded by natural beauty.

Whether you’re looking for a peaceful retreat or exciting family fun day out, Grosvenor Park will not disappoint!

4. Grosvenor Museum

Grosvenor Museum is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Chester. This museum showcases the history and heritage of Chester from Roman times to modern day. The building itself is an architectural masterpiece that’s worth a visit on its own.

The galleries are filled with fascinating displays, including exhibits about local industries, such as silk weaving and salt mining. There are also sections dedicated to art, natural history and archaeology. Visitors can see artefacts from around the world, including Egyptian mummies and Greek pottery.

One of the highlights of Grosvenor Museum is its collection of Roman tombstones – some dating back over 2,000 years! These tombstones provide insight into life in Roman Britain and give visitors a glimpse into what life was like during this time period.

The museum also runs special events throughout the year for all ages, including craft workshops for children, talks by experts in their fields and temporary exhibitions showcasing different aspects of Chester’s history.

Grosvenor Museum should definitely be on your list if you’re planning a trip to Chester. It’s educational but entertaining at the same time – perfect for families or solo travellers who want to learn more about this charming city’s past.

5. Chester Zoo

Chester Zoo is undoubtedly one of the top attractions in Chester, and it’s easy to see why. With over 35,000 animals and 500 different species, this zoo has something for everyone.

One of the highlights is walking through the award-winning “Islands” exhibit. This immersive experience takes visitors on a journey through six South East Asian islands where they can come face to face with Sumatran tigers, orangutans swinging overhead and exotic birds flying freely around them.

Another must-see exhibit is called “The Realm of the Red Ape”. Home to a family of critically endangered Bornean orangutans, this indoor habitat includes towering trees that allow these intelligent primates to swing across ropes high above your head!

And if you’re looking for something truly unique then try out their giraffe feeding experience where you can get up close and personal with these majestic creatures while hand-feeding them freshly cut lettuce leaves!

With so much to see and do at Chester Zoo, be sure to give yourself plenty of time when visiting!

6. Chester Cathedral

Chester Cathedral is a beautiful and historic building located in the heart of Chester. It was first built as a Benedictine abbey in 1092, making it over 900 years old. The cathedral has undergone many changes throughout its long history, including being rebuilt after a fire in the 13th century.

One of the most impressive features of Chester Cathedral is its stunning stained-glass windows, which date back to the medieval period. Visitors can also admire intricate wood carvings and detailed stone masonry throughout the cathedral.

The cathedral is still an active place of worship today and visitors are welcome to attend services during their visit. There are also guided tours available for those who want to learn more about the history and architecture of this iconic building.

In addition to its religious significance, Chester Cathedral has also played a role in popular culture. Fans of Harry Potter may recognize it from scenes in one of the movies where it served as a location for Hogwarts School.

Whether you’re interested in history or simply appreciate beautiful architecture, Chester Cathedral is definitely worth visiting when exploring all that this charming city has to offer.

7. Deva Roman Discovery Centre

The Deva Roman Discovery Centre is a must-visit attraction for history buffs and anyone interested in learning about the fascinating heritage of Chester. The centre is located on the site of an original Roman fortress, where visitors can explore the remains of a 2nd-century bathhouse.

At the centre, you’ll find a range of interactive exhibits that bring to life the story of Roman Chester. You’ll learn about how this once-great fortress operated as part of Hadrian’s Wall and get insight into daily life at the time.

One highlight is undoubtedly the reconstructed hypocaust system, which was used to heat water for bathing and provide warmth during cold weather. Visitors can walk around this impressive structure, seeing first-hand how it worked over two millennia ago.

Another highlight is the chance to handle artefacts from this period, including pottery fragments and coins. This gives you a real sense of connection with those who lived here so many years ago.

If you’re visiting Chester then make sure that you add The Deva Roman Discovery Centre to your itinerary – it’s an experience not to be missed!

8. River Dee

One of the most iconic natural attractions in Chester is the River Dee. Running through the heart of this historic city, the river has been an important part of its development since Roman times.

The River Dee offers visitors a peaceful and picturesque setting to relax and unwind. Take a stroll along its banks or enjoy a picnic with friends and family on one of its many grassy areas.

For those looking for more adventure, there are plenty of water activities available on the river including kayaking, paddleboarding and rowing. These activities offer unique perspectives of Chester from the water while also providing an adrenaline rush.

Another popular way to experience the beauty of River Dee is by taking a cruise down it. The cruises offer guided tours where you can learn about the history and architecture that surrounds this magnificent body of water.

As well as being beautiful, River Dee is also home to some interesting wildlife such as kingfishers, otters and herons. Birdwatchers will be delighted at spotting these creatures among others residing around this natural attraction.

Whether you’re seeking relaxation or adventure, visiting River Dee should definitely be top on your list when exploring Chester’s top 10 things to do!

9. Chester Racecourse

Chester Racecourse is a must-visit for anyone who loves horse racing or wants to experience the thrill of betting on horses. The racecourse is located in the heart of Chester city and boasts a rich history dating back to the early 16th century.

The stunning location of this racecourse adds an extra layer of excitement, as it’s set against the backdrop of spectacular views across the River Dee. Visitors can enjoy a range of facilities including bars, restaurants, and private suites that offer panoramic views over the course.

For those passionate about horse racing or just looking for an exciting day out, attending one of Chester’s races is worth experiencing. With a variety of race days throughout spring and summer featuring highly competitive action from some top-class horses – you’re sure to have an unforgettable time at Chester Racecourse.

In addition to watching horse racing, visitors can also take part in fun activities such as best-dressed competitions and live music entertainment during certain events. Whether you’re a seasoned fan or new to horse racing – make sure you don’t miss out on visiting this iconic venue while exploring Chester!

10. Storyhouse

And there you have it, the top 10 things to do in Chester! But before we end this list, let’s talk about one last spot that’s perfect for both locals and tourists: Storyhouse.

Storyhouse is a cultural centre located right in the heart of Chester. It offers a library, cinema, theatre, restaurant, and even a rooftop bar. Whether you’re looking to catch a movie or see a play, this place has got you covered. Plus, its stunning architecture makes for an Instagram-worthy photo op!

In addition to their regular programming, Storyhouse also hosts special events throughout the year such as outdoor concerts and festive markets during the holidays.

So if you’re planning your next trip to Chester or simply looking for something fun to do on the weekend with friends and family – be sure to add Storyhouse to your itinerary!