Chester Travel Guide

Discover the best attractions, food, culture, transportation, and more with our comprehensive tour guide to Chester, England.


Introduction to Chester

Chester, located in the county of Cheshire in North West England, is a beautiful, historic city that dates back to the Roman times. Known for its well-preserved timbered buildings, Roman walls, and a picturesque riverside location, Chester is a popular tourist destination in the UK. Whether you’re looking for history, natural beauty, or great food, Chester has something to offer for everyone. This comprehensive tour guide will help you plan an unforgettable trip to Chester.

List of Places to Visit in Chester

Chester has a plethora of attractions that cater to all interests. Whether you’re looking for cultural experiences or outdoor adventures, you’ll find plenty to do in Chester. Here is a list of the most popular places to visit in Chester:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Chester Cathedral
  • Grosvenor Museum
  • Chester Roman Amphitheatre
  • Chester Castle
  • The Rows of Chester
  • St. John the Baptist’s Church
  • The Old Dee Bridge

Natural Attractions of Chester: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Chester Racecourse
  • River Dee
  • Chester Meadows
  • Grosvenor Park
  • Countess of Chester Country Park

Hiking/Biking Routes of Chester

Chester’s beautiful landscape and country parks offer wonderful opportunities for hiking and biking. Here are some of the most scenic trails in and around Chester:

  • The Sandstone Trail
  • The Delamere Forest
  • The Cheshire Cycleway
  • The Whitegate Way

Best Things to Do in Chester: Activities and Tours

From sightseeing to adventure sports, Chester has a range of activities that suit all age groups and tastes. Here are some of the best things to do in Chester:

  • Take a walking tour of Chester’s historic city centre
  • Enjoy a cruise on the River Dee
  • Visit the Chester Zoo
  • Walk along the Chester Walls
  • Go horse racing at the Chester Racecourse
  • Explore the city on a double-decker bus tour
  • Take a hot air balloon ride over Chester

Week-Long Itinerary for Chester

If you are planning to stay longer in Chester, here is a suggested itinerary for a week:

Day Activity
Day 1 Explore the historic city centre and visit Chester Cathedral and The Rows
Day 2 Take a cruise on the River Dee and spend time at the Grosvenor Park
Day 3 Visit the Chester Castle, Roman Amphitheatre, and walk the Chester Walls
Day 4 Spend the day at the Chester Zoo
Day 5 Take a hot air balloon ride over Chester and enjoy a picnic on the Meadows
Day 6 Go horse racing at the Chester Racecourse
Day 7 Explore the nearby Delamere Forest and go hiking or biking

Food and Drink Scene of Chester

Chester has a vibrant food and drink scene, with plenty of options ranging from traditional English fare to modern fusion cuisine. Here are some must-try dishes and local beverages:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Cheshire Cheese
  • Roast Beef and Yorkshire Pudding
  • Scouse (a local stew with meat and vegetables)
  • Sticky Toffee Pudding

Local Beverages

  • Chester Gin
  • Cheshire Cat Ale
  • Wincle Beer

Where to Stay in Chester: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Chester has a range of accommodation options available for all budgets. Here are some of the best places to stay in Chester:

  • The Chester Grosvenor (luxury hotel)
  • The Mill Hotel & Spa (mid-range hotel)
  • The Bunkroom Hostel (budget hostel)
  • The Cottage Guest House (bed and breakfast)

What to Buy in Chester: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Chester is known for its unique shopping experiences, with one of the oldest shopping areas in the world, The Rows. Here are some of the best souvenirs and local products to bring home from Chester:

  • Chester Cheese
  • Cheshire Gin
  • Local honey
  • Handmade jewellery and crafts from The Rows

Local Culture and Customs of Chester

Chester has a rich cultural history, with a strong influence from the Roman, Norman, and Tudor periods. The locals are friendly and welcoming, and the city has a relaxed vibe that makes it easy to explore. The customary greeting in Chester is a handshake, and tipping is expected in restaurants and for service staff.

Best Time to Visit Chester

The best time to visit Chester is during the summer months from June to August when the weather is warm and there are plenty of events and festivals happening. However, this is also the busiest time of the year, and accommodation prices can be steep. Spring and autumn are ideal times to visit Chester, as the crowds are thinner, and the weather is pleasant. Winter can be chilly and damp, but it’s also the best time to visit for Christmas markets and festive lights.

Do’s and Don’ts of Chester

Here are some general things to keep in mind when visiting Chester:

Do:

  • Respect the local culture and customs
  • Visit the local markets and festivals
  • Be courteous to the locals and other visitors
  • Explore the city on foot to get a true sense of Chester’s history and charm

Don’t:

  • Litter or pollute the environment
  • Damage historical landmarks or architecture
  • Overstay your parking time
  • Engage in loud or disruptive behavior at night

Safety and Health

Safety in Chester

Chester is a generally safe city, but visitors should still exercise caution and take necessary precautions. Here are some tips for staying safe in Chester:

  • Stay in well-lit and populated areas at night
  • Keep your valuables close and secured
  • Lock your doors and windows when sleeping or leaving your accommodation
  • Be vigilant when using public transport or walking alone at night

Health in Chester

Chester has a good healthcare system, and visitors can access medical care if needed. It’s advisable to have travel insurance that covers medical expenses in case of emergency.

Getting to Chester: Transportation Options and Logistics

Chester is well-connected by various forms of transport, and getting there is relatively easy. Here are some of the options available:

Airports Near Chester

  • Liverpool John Lennon Airport (19 miles away)
  • Manchester Airport (34 miles away)

Bus Stations Near Chester

  • Chester Bus Exchange
  • Boughton Heath Park & Ride

Other Options

  • Train: Chester has its train station
  • Car: Chester can be accessed via the M56 and M53 motorways

How to Get Around in Chester

Chester is a compact city, and most attractions are within walking distance from each other. For those who prefer public transport, there are various options available such as buses, taxis, and trains.

Where to Go Next from Chester: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Chester is conveniently located near some of the UK’s most beautiful destinations, which makes it an excellent base for exploring the surrounding areas. Here are some nearby destinations that are worth a visit:

  • Liverpool
  • Manchester
  • North Wales
  • Peak District

Conclusion

Chester is a charming city with a fascinating history and a vibrant culture. Whether you’re interested in exploring its historical landmarks, enjoying its outdoor activities, or indulging in its food and drink scene, Chester offers something for everyone. We hope this comprehensive tour guide helps you plan a memorable trip to Chester.

Shopping in Chester city centre Shopping in Chester city centre Interior of Chester's imposing cathedral, which was left untouched by Henry VIII during his dissolution of all the monasteries because he rather liked it! Interior of Chester's imposing cathedral, which was left untouched by Henry VIII during his dissolution of all the monasteries because he rather liked it! The River Dee, which runs through Chester The River Dee, which runs through Chester Chester's attractive shops draw shoppers from far and wide Chester's attractive shops draw shoppers from far and wide