Summary of the Best Things to Do in Chester
Situated right on the border between England and Wales, Chester is a beautiful city worth exploring when you are in the north of England. There is an abundance of attractions and activities in Chester that make it a delightful stop for travelers.
Chester is the type of destination that can easily be appreciated in a single day or over a weekend. However, if you wish to extend your stay, countless activities await, as the city boasts a rich history that spans back to Roman times.
To ensure you make the most of your visit, here are my top recommendations for places to explore in Chester. This will allow you to prioritize your adventure without the hassle of overwhelming planning. Enjoy your visit!
1.) Chester City Walls
The impressive Chester City Walls, constructed during Roman and Medieval times, are a must-see. These ancient fortifications once shielded the city and its residents from invaders.
Now, while modern threats are no longer a concern, you can still traverse a significant portion of these historic walls. Spanning over 2 miles, the walk around Chester City Walls can be completed in approximately an hour.
As you stroll along the walls, you’ll encounter notable landmarks including the Roman Gardens, the famous Rows, and Chester Racecourse.
2.) Grosvenor Museum
Located just a 10-minute walk from Eastgate Clock, the Grosvenor Museum offers a fascinating glimpse into Chester’s local history.
The museum houses a plethora of Roman artifacts, centuries-old paintings, and sculptures across its various exhibits. With a strong focus on Chester’s Roman heritage, it is a must-visit for history enthusiasts.
Best of all, entry to the Grosvenor Museum is completely free, making it an excellent choice for a 45-minute visit.
Afterward, don’t miss the nearby Cheshire Military Museum at Chester Castle, which showcases artifacts from the 1600s to the present day. It is worth a visit for those interested in military history.
3.) Chester Cathedral
Chester Cathedral stands prominently in the city center and is an unmissable sight while wandering its streets. With founding dates tracing back nearly 1,000 years, its initial construction began in the 11th century and continued until the 17th century.
Visiting the cathedral will take around 45 minutes, and it is worthwhile to explore the impressive nave, the Cloister Garth, and the Refectory, all of which trace back centuries.
Make sure to also visit the Abbey Gateway, located just outside the cathedral. Dating back to the 1300s, it once served as a gatehouse for Chester.
4.) Roman Gardens
Located near Pepper Street, the Roman Gardens offers a tranquil setting to explore Chester’s Roman history. This small garden follows the pathway of the Roman City Walls, showcasing ruins and artifacts that highlight the city’s rich heritage.
Situated alongside the River Dee, the Roman Gardens are free to enter, making it a convenient stop on your way to the riverbanks.
5.) Roman Amphitheatre
Just before reaching the Roman Gardens, you will find the ruins of the Roman Amphitheatre, which deserves a visit while you are in Chester. This amphitheater is recognized as the largest in all of Great Britain.
Although the site consists mostly of ruins and foundations, it still offers insights into what the amphitheater looked like thousands of years ago.
A visit here will only take about 15 minutes, and it’s conveniently located along the Chester City Walls walk.
6.) Chester Rows
The origin of the Chester Rows remains uncertain, but they are unquestionably a highlight of the city. These unique, covered walkways exist on the first floor of buildings along Watergate, Eastgate, and Bridge Streets.
Today, you can stroll through these historic shopping areas, where you’ll find various local retailers and boutiques. Dating back approximately 700 years, the Chester Rows continue to thrive.
7.) River Dee boat trip
If you’re in the mood for relaxation, head to the banks of the River Dee. Located just east of Bridge Gate, Chester Boats offers options for pedal boat rentals or you can join a river cruise.
Boat trips typically last around 30 minutes, providing an entertaining opportunity to learn about Chester’s history while enjoying the scenic waterways.
8.) Eastgate Clock
Situated along the historic Roman entrance to Chester, Eastgate Clock serves as a unique city gate that remains open. Historically, this site has been an entry way into Chester for centuries.
Though the original Roman gate is no longer standing, the Eastgate Clock, erected in the 1800s, proudly overlooks the bustling streets of the city.
Visiting Eastgate Clock is undoubtedly one of the best things to do in Chester, as it is among England’s most celebrated clocks, ranking alongside Big Ben in London. It is a delightful stop, created to honor Queen Victoria’s Diamond Jubilee.
9.) St Michael’s Arcade
Accessible from Bridge Street, St Michael’s Arcade has become a fundamental part of Chester’s city center, lined with pedestrian-friendly streets.
Inside, you will discover an array of quaint shops (around 20) showcasing the charming character of this historic city.
Exploring St Michael’s Arcade adds a unique touch to your Chester experience, highlighting its vibrant shopping scene amid the city’s historical backdrop.
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