10 Best Things To Do In Chester (Cheshire, UK) – 2023

Are you looking for the best things to do in Chester in Cheshire, UK? Then, you are in the right place! This blog is your ticket to discovering the best of what this historic city has to offer. Get ready to explore a place where the past meets the present in perfect harmony. 

In this blog, you’ll see the best attractions and hidden gems that make Chester a must-visit destination. From the ancient city walls to the charming Rows, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. Note, however, that Chester isn’t just about history; it’s a city of vibrant experiences. Take a boat trip along the picturesque River Dee or explore the local markets and independent boutiques for a taste of the city’s unique charm. Read on to learn more about the best things to do in Chester! 

Read More: 10 Best Things to Do in Cheshire (UK)

Best Things to Do in Chester:

1. Chester Zoo

It’s not often that the words ‘wildlife’ and ‘Chester’ go hand-in-hand, but when they do, it’s usually a reference to Chester Zoo, which is one of Britain’s most celebrated wildlife sanctuaries. A trip to Chester would, in fact, be incomplete without a detour to this place. 

Covering an impressive 128 acres of land, Chester Zoo provides a home to more than 20,000 animals of over 500 species. From the African-painted dogs to the spectacled bears of South America, the zoo is a biodiversity hotspot that perfectly captures the essence of global fauna.

Here, you can engage in a visual feast of nature, courtesy of the immersive, world-class exhibits. An excellent example is the Islands at Chester Zoo. This is a feature that offers an immersive journey through the tropical environments of six Southeast Asian islands. Realistically replicating habitats and offering close encounters with Sumatran tigers, orangutans, and Komodo dragons, this exhibit gives you a taste of an explorer’s life without leaving British soil.

For those who prefer their wildlife experiences tinged with a bit of the extraordinary, the zoo offers regular animal talks and feeding sessions. These informative and entertaining experiences provide a deeper understanding of various species, their habitats, and conservation needs.

The zoo’s commitment to conservation doesn’t end at informative talks. It is a cornerstone of Chester Zoo’s operations. The zoo takes pride in its role as a global conservation hub, working on several projects worldwide to preserve the world’s most vulnerable wildlife. Their efforts in preventing extinction have made significant strides in conservation. This investment in the future of our planet, manifested in the actions of Chester Zoo, is sure to resonate with visitors.

Last, but by no means least, there’s the botanical dimension to consider. Chester Zoo isn’t just about animals; it houses an award-winning garden team that meticulously maintains a collection of 11,000 different types of plants. It’s an environment that offers a blend of native and exotic plant life, nurturing a harmonious coexistence between the fauna and flora. 

2. Chester Cathedral

Chester Cathedral is no newcomer to the city’s timeline. Founded as a Benedictine abbey in 1092 and later transformed into a cathedral in 1541, this structure embodies layers of history within its walls. Every stone and stained glass window narrates a tale from the past, and as you roam its hallways, you will be immersing yourself in over a millennium of English heritage.

One cannot talk about Chester Cathedral without addressing its architectural grandeur. A mixture of different periods, from the Romanesque to the Perpendicular Gothic, each segment of the cathedral gives a nod to a distinct era. Its nave, boasting an awe-inspiring ceiling and striking woodwork, is a testament to Norman craftsmanship, while the stunning medieval quire stands as a symbol of Early English Gothic influence.

However, you must know that Chester Cathedral is not just a stoic monument frozen in time. It thrives as a vibrant community space. For music lovers, it’s a treat to attend one of the regular concerts or listen to the cathedral choir – a tradition unbroken since 1541. And those seeking a peaceful moment will appreciate the Cathedral’s cloister garden, an enclosed oasis of tranquility in the bustling city.

There is an enlightening educational dimension to your visit as well. The cathedral hosts various exhibitions and events throughout the year, providing intriguing insights into religious, historical, and cultural topics. It’s a place where learning and enjoyment go hand in hand.

3. Chester City Walls

 If Chester is the jewel of Cheshire, then the City Walls are the string that holds this sparkling gem together. Tracing their roots back to the Roman era, the Chester City Walls not only provide a captivating walk through history but also deliver unmatched panoramic views of the city.

These ancient walls, which once served as formidable defences for Chester, now guide locals and tourists alike on an unforgettable 2-mile circular stroll. As you navigate this pathway, you’ll be transported back in time, walking the same ground as Romans, Saxons, and Normans before you.

There are several key features within the City Walls’ trail that you must take note of. The Eastgate Clock, for example, is one you simply can’t miss. Built in 1897 to mark Queen Victoria’s Diamond Jubilee, this ornate timepiece, stands proudly over Eastgate and offers a delightful snapshot opportunity.

Moreover, a walk along the City Walls is incomplete without crossing the Watergate, which originally allowed access to the River Dee’s port from the walled city. It’s a stark reminder of Chester’s maritime past, having seen countless shipments of wine and other goods during its long history.

Aside from these iconic structures, the Walls also provide a vantage point from where you can admire other Chester landmarks. Spy on the Roman Amphitheatre, glance at the Cathedral, or gaze down at the beautiful black-and-white structures of the Rows. Every step reveals a new angle to the city.

4. Eastgate Clock

Standing in the centre of Chester, atop the historical city walls, as mentioned a while ago, is the Eastgate Clock. It asserts itself as a timeless landmark and as one of the most famous landmarks in the UK next to the Big Ben. 

Raised in 1897, the Eastgate Clock came to life as a commemoration of Queen Victoria’s Diamond Jubilee. Designed by John Douglas, the clock and its supporting arch show the quintessence of Victorian architecture, offering a delightful contrast to the Roman and medieval structures found throughout the city.

One striking aspect of the clock is its vibrant colour scheme. The combination of a gold-leaf face with a wrought-iron, deep blue frame creates a visual spectacle, especially when it gleams under the sun or glows under the moonlight. If you are a photographers, prepare your lenses; the Eastgate Clock is nothing short of photogenic.

Another element that adds to the charm of the Eastgate Clock is its location. Perched above Eastgate, it keeps an eye on the city’s comings and goings. And as it’s part of the city walls circuit, a stroll that takes you to the clock often comes paired with a panoramic view of Chester’s landscape.

Despite its grandeur, the clock doesn’t stand aloof from the city’s rhythm. Below it, Chester’s life unfolds in its variety, from the lively shopping scene at Eastgate Street to the cheerful buzz at the nearby cafes and eateries. The Eastgate Clock stands as a witness to this pulse, the modern heartbeat within a city rich in history.

5. Grosvenor Museum

As you continue your exploration of Chester, one cultural gem demands your attention – the Grosvenor Museum. Founded in 1885, this museum has been weaving tales of Chester’s cultural, historical, and artistic journey for over a century, with exhibits spanning from the Roman times to the 20th century.

The Grosvenor Museum resides within a Victorian-era building, the architectural charm of which is an exhibit in itself. Inside, however, a multitude of collections waits to capture your interest. The museum’s galleries are home to everything from archaeological artefacts and period clothing to fine art and natural history exhibits.

The museum’s Roman Gallery truly steals the show. This exhibition reveals the city’s roots as a Roman fortress, complete with artifacts like tombstones and household items. The gallery’s highlight is undoubtedly the 2,000-year-old ‘Chester Unearthed’ exhibit, a vividly detailed presentation of the Roman fortress and the lives led within it.

Art enthusiasts, on the other hand, are in for a treat at the Art Gallery, which hosts an impressive collection of paintings, drawings, and sculptures. Works by renowned artists like Charles Deane and Francis Bacon take centre stage, each offering a unique perspective on British art’s evolution.

If your interests lie in social history, the Period House, furnished as it would have been in the 17th century, offers an immersive experience. Step into the past as you move through the rooms, each filled with historically accurate furniture and décor.

Alongside these permanent exhibits, the Grosvenor Museum organises rotating temporary exhibitions, ensuring there’s always something fresh to explore. Along with these exhibits, engaging workshops and talks add another layer to your museum visit.

6. Chester Roman Ampitheatre

Treading through Chester’s historic tapestry, it’s nearly impossible to overlook the Chester Roman Amphitheatre, a relic of the city’s past that stands as the largest of its kind in Britain. A testament to Chester’s significance during Roman rule, the amphitheatre offers visitors a fascinating dive into the world of ancient spectacles and gladiatorial contests.

Laid out in the 1st century AD, the amphitheatre once seated around 8,000 spectators, buzzing with the excitement of public games, military exercises, and theatrical performances. Today, the remains of the amphitheatre transport you back to that thrilling era, offering a glimpse into a world that existed almost two millennia ago.

The amphitheatre isn’t merely a pile of ancient stones. It’s a stage where the drama of history unfolds. As you walk the semi-circular auditorium, you can almost hear the echoes of the past, the cheers of the crowd, the marching of Roman soldiers, and the thrill of theatrical performances. The structure’s partially unearthed state leaves plenty of room for the imagination to fill in the gaps, enhancing the experience of your visit.

While the amphitheatre itself is the primary attraction, it’s worth noting that the site is bordered by the Roman Gardens. Here, you can observe a collection of various Roman artefacts, including fragments of columns and other stonework, providing further insights into Roman Chester’s grandeur.

The Chester Roman Amphitheatre also hosts a variety of contemporary events. From theatre performances to historic reenactments, the site still echoes with dramatic energy, ensuring history and present-day culture coalesce in a unique blend. 

Read More: 14 Best Roman Places in the UK: Exploring Britannia’s Ancient Sites

7. Chester Racecourse

Established in 1539, Chester Racecourse has been the backdrop for hundreds of years of horse racing history. Today, the Roodee continues this legacy, with a calendar full of racing fixtures that captivate thousands of spectators every year. Whether you’re an avid equestrian fan or a casual observer, the palpable excitement of a race day is a unique experience.

The racecourse itself boasts an intriguing layout. Its oval, left-handed track provides a distinct challenge to jockeys and horses alike, contributing to the suspense and exhilaration of each race. Overlooking the racecourse are strikingly designed grandstands, offering excellent views and facilities that cater to the varied needs of the spectators.

Chester Racecourse, however, is more than just a sports venue. It’s a social hub that brings together people from all walks of life. The lively atmosphere of race days, peppered with an array of food stalls, bars, and often live music, creates an environment that’s as much about socialising as it is about horse racing.

When not hosting races, Chester Racecourse transforms into an event venue. From concerts and exhibitions to weddings and corporate events, the racecourse has demonstrated a versatile ability to host various functions without losing its unique charm.

Read More: Horse Racing in Great Britain (UK): Why British Love Horse Racing

8. Chester Roman Garden

Located close to the city walls and the Roman Amphitheatre lies a quiet oasis that’s steeped in history – the Chester Roman Gardens. This showcases remnants of Chester’s ancient past, presents a unique way to explore the city’s Roman heritage while enjoying the peaceful outdoors.

The gardens came into existence in the 1950s when a desire to display a range of Roman artefacts in a public space took shape. While it’s not a garden from the Roman era, it beautifully houses and exhibits Roman finds from across the city, acting as an open-air museum.

Walking through the Chester Roman Gardens, you’ll come across columns, pieces of Roman buildings, and other stuff. These fragments, some of which are from the Roman bathhouses, once formed part of the vibrant Roman city of Deva Victrix. Now, they lie artistically displayed against the backdrop of beautifully maintained lawns and flower beds.

One of the central features of the gardens is the reconstructed hypocaust – a Roman central heating system. This gives visitors an insight into the advanced level of engineering and architecture in the Roman period.

9. Chester High Street

Amid the cobbled streets and charming architecture of Chester, there’s one thoroughfare that holds a special place in the heart of the city – the Chester High Street. As you wander through its labyrinth, you’ll find it’s not just a place to shop, but also a tableau of Chester’s character, blending the old and the new in a unique ensemble.

Chester High Street is home to an array of retailers, satisfying a wide spectrum of shopping needs. From high-end fashion boutiques and international brands to independent shops and charming bookstores, the variety is extensive. Whatever you’re looking for, chances are you’ll find it here.

Yet, it’s the antique shops that truly set Chester High Street apart. These invite shoppers to step into the past. Each item on display has a story to tell, waiting to be discovered by the right person.

One such location that deserves special mention is the Chester Antiques Market. Housed in a period building, this place is an antique lover’s paradise. Whether you’re a seasoned collector or a curious onlooker, a visit to this market is a journey into a bygone era. From Victorian jewellery to mid-century modern furniture, there’s a chance you’ll stumble upon a unique piece that speaks to you.

Let’s not forget, shopping on Chester High Street is also about the experience. The Rows, a series of two-tiered medieval galleries unique to Chester, offer a distinctive setting. Shopping here is not merely a transaction; it’s a walk through architectural history with a variety of purchase options along the way.

Aside from shopping, Chester High Street boasts an eclectic mix of cafes, pubs, and restaurants, perfect for a refreshing pit-stop between your retail adventures. Furthermore, street performers often add a dash of entertainment, enlivening the atmosphere.

10. River Dee

The River Dee holds its own with a tranquil elegance. Winding through the heart of the city, it’s a place of recreation and relaxation. One of the river’s most iconic features, the Weir, deserves a special mention, not just for its practical role, but also for its contribution to the city’s scenic allure.

Constructed by the Normans in the 11th century, the Weir had a pragmatic purpose: to ensure there was a constant water supply for the mills along the river’s edge. Today, it plays an equally important role in maintaining the water level in the River Dee, preventing it from becoming tidal all the way to Chester.

More than just a functional structure, the Weir has become one of Chester’s visual landmarks. The cascading water creates a picturesque scene, particularly beautiful at dawn or dusk when the sunlight dances off the rippling surface. It’s a sight that has inspired photographers, painters, and poets alike.

Close to the Weir, you can find the Groves, a popular riverside promenade dotted with cafés and ice cream vendors. Here, you can relax under a canopy of trees, watch the world go by, or hire a rowboat for a leisurely sail on the river.

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