Things to Do in Chester – Best 10 Things
Chester was constructed in AD 70 as the Roman fortification of Deva Victrix, right on the border with Wales. Excavations at the amphitheatre indicate that if the invasion of Ireland had succeeded, Deva would have been the Roman capital of the United Kingdom in the third century. Deva’s old defences have left large curtains of ashlar blocks on the City Walls. Let’s look at some of the top things to do in Chester.
Medieval towers fortify these and include stories from the Siege of Chester during the English Civil War. The Rows, Medieval wood structures with elevated galleries seen nowhere else in the world, may be found on Chester’s straight Roman streets. And no discussion about Chester would be complete without mentioning the zoo, one of the world’s greatest and one of the first to employ humane cages.
Things to Do in Chester – Best 10 Things
1. The Chester Rows
The two-tiered galleries, accessible by stairs from the street level, are unique to Chester. The Rows, which date back to the mediaeval period, are home to many stores, many of which are independent boutique-type shops that provide something distinctive and unique to Chester’s retail offering.
Chester’s historic Rows border the four major commercial avenues in the city centre.
2. Roman Heritage
Chester was initially constructed to govern the local tribes of North Wales and northern Britain. Chester’s layout now retains the original Roman plan, with a defensive wall around the city that is the most complete in the UK, stretching over two miles.
It also has the most significant Roman theatre in Britain, which is free to visit and is utilised for entertainment and military training by the 20th Legion. You may also take a Roman Tour around the city, led by your centurion, to learn about Roman Chester.
3. Chester Racetrack
According to official records, Chester Racetrack is the oldest racecourse still in operation in England. It also claims to be England’s shortest racetrack, at 1 mile and 1 furlong. The historic and bloody Goteddsday football match took place at the Chester Racecourse.
The game was very violent and was prohibited by the city in 1533, only to be replaced by horse racing in 1539. Chester Racecourse now hosts 15 annual race meetings, attracting large audiences from the North West and beyond.
4. Chester Cathedral
Chester Cathedral is what makes the city appealing to a town rich in history. With a rich history spanning over two thousand years, it has some fantastic sites, such as the Nave Mosaics, which date back to 1880 and believe to be among the best in the nation.
There’s also Cathedral at Height, a guided tour that takes you behind the scenes and gives you unparalleled public access. The time takes you through the bell-ringing chamber, down to the fourteenth-century choir stalls, up to the top for panoramic views, and through the galleries.
5. Guided Tour
A guided tour is one of the most remarkable ways to learn about Chester’s intriguing history. The Visitor Information Centre offers walking tours, Roman tours, and sightseeing buses. They enable visitors to observe Chester’s buildings, architecture, and history from a fresh perspective.
6. River Dee Flowing
The river Dee is a popular gathering place for both tourists and residents. With rowing boats, pedalos for rent, and a bandstand and chairs, it’s the ideal spot to unwind on a beautiful day, with cafés, restaurants surrounding its banks and lots of views to admire.
Chester Boat offers daily river tours from The Groves, passing through the stunning Eaton Estate, home of the Duke of Westminster.
7. Shopping at Boutique
Watergate Area, dubbed ‘The Independent Quarter,’ is mainly packed with independents, ranging from galleries to apparel shops, fashionable pubs and charming cafés, all within a stone’s throw from Chester’s primary retail street and an essential must while visiting.
Chester is well-known for its eccentric, one-of-a-kind boutique shopping. Along the side streets and famed Rows, you’ll discover many odd private limited stores in addition to a wide choice of high street names.
8. Chester Zoo
Chester Zoo consistently recognises one of the best attractions in the nation, and a visit will show you why! It is home to approximately 21,000 creatures, including some of the world’s most endangered. The is constructed with wonderful artificial grass for animals and a rest area.
There’s something new to see around every bend, from majestic elephants and rhinos to fragile butterflies.
9. Chester Grosvenor Hotel
The Chester Grosvenor, located in the heart of the lovely Roman city of Chester, is housed in an antique structure with a black and white timbered façade. The five-star hotel, which stands near the historic Eastgate Clock, is one of the city’s most recognisable attractions.
It boasts a Michelin-starred restaurant, Simon Radley in the Chester Grosvenor, which has kept its prized star since 1990, as well as four AA rosettes. The hotel also has a beautiful spa with over forty rituals and treatments, making it an ideal location for Afternoon Tea.
10. Town Crier
Chester is a beautiful city with many distinct qualities that make it appealing to tourists and inhabitants. The history of the Town Crier is one of many strange and intriguing facts about Chester that many people are unaware of.
Chester is the only town in the United Kingdom that has kept the custom of regular noon proclamations at a defined location and time. The High Cross, located at the pedestrianised junction of Chester’s four significant streets, has been the location of words since the Middle Ages. You may witness the Town Crier from Tuesday to Saturday at noon from June through August.
Conclusion
Prepare to be busy if you’re looking for intriguing things to do in Chester. This booming metropolis knows how to have fun. Whatever your preferences are, you’ll be impressed by the variety of attractions available here. Continue reading to learn about some of our favourites. Discover what makes Chester tick with the top tours and day activities. Look at our 10 fun activities in Chester, and book confidently, knowing that we provide free cancellation and no additional costs.
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