visit chester in one day

A 1 day Chester itinerary to help you plan the perfect day out in Chester

If quirky and historical settings are your thing, then you should plan a day out in Chester. The Northern English city is located about 1.5 hours from Manchester by train, and is the perfect place to plan a day trip. We have come up with a 1 day in Chester itinerary to help you plan the best things to see and do when you visit.

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A day out in Chester factsheet

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Before we look at planning a Chester itinerary, here is a little bit of background.

Country : England

Language(s) spoken: English

Currency: British Pound/ £

Population: Approximately 77,000

Located in the northwest of England, Chester is a popular student and tourist city. It has strong Roman roots, and was founded as a Roman fortress in 1 AD. The city still retains a good majority of its ancient Roman walls. It also has some distinct Tudor Style Buildings in Chester Town Centre, making it a fantastic place to visit for history lovers.

Before you start planning your day out in Chester, you probably want to know how to get there. The closest airports to Chester are Manchester and Liverpool . Manchester is better for international flights, and Liverpool only really does European flights with the more budget airlines.

From both airports you can easily get to Chester by train. In fact most people do arrive in Chester via the train. And the good news is, is that the main train station is close to all of the sights making it easy to find your way around this city. Once you are in the city it is pretty easy to walk to most attractions.

On a side note, Chester is also close to Wales , so can be included in an itinerary if you are planning on heading that way.

If you are planning on staying in Chester just that little bit longer, you will need to look at accommodation.

Chester is a popular tourist destination so you will find hotels covering all price ranges. There are a few hotels located right near the train station which is lucky when carrying those heavy bags. If you are looking at booking your best bet is to go with a hotel booking sight like hotels.com where you can compare different prices.

Chester is not a large place but our top tip is to try and get something central because you want to be close to the sights and the nightlife. There are also a lot of spa hotels in the city which if you are there for a romantic break is always a nice touch.

Here are our recommendations of things to do when spending one day in Chester.

Do a Hop on hop off sightseeing tour

If you only have a day in Chester our top tip is to do a sightseeing Hop On, Hop Off tour . We did this and hopped on the tour right opposite the train station. It cost us £12 each and it helped us orientate ourselves with the city.

We were also lucky enough to have a knowledgeable guide on the bus as opposed to a recording. It was a great opportunity to ask questions and learn all about the city before going out and exploring on our own. If you do the tour you can buy tickets for the boat tour as well at a discount so keep that in mind. But if you forget, you can still get £1 off boat tickets if you show your bus ticket.

Stroll through Grosvenor Park

Grosvenor Park is a great place to visit when doing a day trip to Chester. After doing the full circuit on the bus we hopped off here.

It’s perfect if you want to stroll around and admire the gardens or just chill out generally. We started at the ruins of St John’s church and then made our way into the gardens. The gardens really are beautiful and so green.

The park is on 20 acres of land, and there are various points that overlook the River Dee, which is the river that runs through Chester. The cool thing is that Grosvenor Park is actually considering one of the best and most complete examples of Victorian Parks, in England.

Take in the atmosphere around the River Dee

The River Dee is a 70 mile river that runs through Chester and Wales. Close to Grosvenor Park is a paved section with promenades, park benches, restaurants, and stands selling ice cream. It is a great place to stroll around with an ice cream cone in hand.

If you cross the bridge to the other side you can go for a walk along the river. It is also the perfect place to have a picnic and lie in the grass. The atmosphere along the river is incredible especially on a sunny day. You get to listen to the murmur of the tourists and locals alike as they soak in the views as well as the songs from buskers set up along the river.

This is also a good place to eat. Hickory’s , is a good choice and is a southern USA style restaurant. The cocktail selection is fab too! If you can try get a seat overlooking the river. It is fantastic on a warm day as well because there is a lot of outdoor seating. There is nothing like great food, great drinks and fresh air!

Do a boat trip

Another fun thing to do for your day out in Chester is to hop on a boat and explore the River Dee. We went with Chester Boat and it cost £7.50 for a half hour trip. There is a bar on board which we made full use of, particularly as the weather was lovely. The tour was very tranquil and gave us the opportunity to see some amazing riverside properties all laced with so much history. You can book tickets online in advance or purchase them on the day.

Alternatively you can rent your own motorboat or paddle boat and explore the River Dee yourself. Either way a boat trip is definitely a must for a day trip to Chester.

Explore the Roman Gardens and visit the Amphitheatre

History buffs will love Chester as there is so much to see. The Roman Gardens are one of our favourite parts of the city, as they contain fragments from old Roman Buildings. It is a beautiful place to sit or lay in the grass and relax. Nearby is the Amphitheatre which is apparently one of the largest stone built Roman Amphitheatres in the UK.

Walk the City Walls

The City Walls in Chester are the best preserved walls in the UK. In fact you can actually make your way around the city walls in about 1 hour. You get some really beautiful views of the city, so it is well worth doing.

Also a fun fact – Chester is also the only city in Britain that has retained the full wall. Built originally to defend the city it is believed that the walls were completed by the mid 12th century.

Explore the Rows

Unique to Chester, the Rows are a set of half timber galleries that you walk up a set of stairs to reach. They form a second row of shops above ground level and they are a great place to explore. You will find quirky shops, and cafes up here and it really is worth exploring.

Visit Chester Cathedral

One of the highlights during a day out in Chester is to visit Chester Cathedral. For starters entry is free so even if you are on a budget you can still visit. Although I should add that donations are welcomed.

The Cathedral, was actually a Benedictine Abbey in 1093. In 1250 the Cathedral was rebuilt in a Gothic style. You can see elements of both designs when you visit which is very cool.

When you visit you can tell when you enter it is the real home of the community. In fact when we visited we were so lucky to witness a full choir and orchestra performing . The gardens are also incredible and there is a really tranquil space with a water fountain and several benches to sit on.

Discover Chester town centre

Chester town centre is a great place to shop and an even better place to admire the old buildings. The centre particularly around Eastgate is a bustling hive of activity with buskers, shoppers and tourists making the most of the historical setting. Just don’t forget to look up!

See the Eastgate Clock

One must do in Chester town Centre is see the Eastgate clock. It is a really beautiful decorative piece and is one of the most photographed clocks in the UK, after Big Ben of course. It can be seen as you make your way across the city’s walls.

I know we have mentioned a few places already for eating and drinking when visiting Chester in a day. Here are some other suggestions though to help you plan your trip.

Eating in Chester town centre

Here are some of the best places to eat in Chester town centre and beyond.

Porta is one of our favourite tapas bar in Chester town centre. It’s perfect for all those Spanish inspired small plates, and they also have an incredible wine selection.

They also have an outdoor terrace so if you are visiting in the warmer months, it’s such a relaxing place to go. Tables are available on a first come first serve basis. They are closed on Mondays, but do serve food from 12pm to about 10pm most other days.

This is another favourite in Chester town centre. The Yard does some great Italian food including a cracking good prawn tagliatelle. This is one of those places you do need to book in advance, and you can do that via their website .

The Ship Inn

This isn’t quite Chester town centre, but it’s not miles away either. Located in Handbridge which is a short walk across the River Dee.

The Ship Inn does a lot of classic pub food, with a really cosy and welcoming atmosphere. They are open every day usually around 10am – 10pm.

Commonhall Street Social

For something a little more laid back head to Commonhall Street Social. It’s located down a side street in Chester town centre. They do craft beers, and some great food like burgers and nachos.

Drinking in Chester town centre

Here are some of the best places for drinks in Chester town centre and beyond.

Vin Santo is a must for wine lovers. It’s also an excellent place to go if you want to try some food and wine pairings or even cheese and wine.

Beer Heroes

Beer Heroes is one of our favourite spots for drinks in Chester. Located in Chester town centre, they stock over 350 craft beers. They also do tasting sessions although you do need to book these in advance.

Bear & Billet

For pub style food and drinks the Bear and Billet is a good choice. The pub is located inside Chester’s city walls, inside in traditional half timbered building which dates back to 1664. It’s a friendly place, and good if you want a drink with some amazing views over the city walls.

For lovers of cocktails and indie music head to Kuckoo. The bar is located on Watergate Street in the centre of Chester. It’s got a really fun vibe, and perfect if you are looking for something a little different during your day trip to Chester.

Here is a sample Chester itinerary to give you a bit of inspiration for your own trip to Chester.

After arriving in Chester in the morning nip across the road from the train station and do the hop on hop off bus tour, in order to familiarise yourself with Chester. Once you have done the full circuit hop off at Grosvenor Park. Take a wander through the park, whilst eventually making your way towards the River Dee. Head out on a 30 minute boat tour to see the beautiful houses and surroundings.

Have lunch at Hickory’s by the river. When you have finished make your way to the city walls to walk off the lunch. You will eventually reach the town centre, and once here visit the Chester Cathedral. Make sure you also checkout the Eastgate clock before having some afternoon tea at Hatters.

Late Afternoon

Before making your way back to the train station make sure you stop by the Amphitheatre and explore the Roman Gardens.

You might be wondering if a day trip to Chester is enough time to see the city. Personally we think it is enough time. Chester is a small place, and the main tourist attractions like the River Dee, Chester Cathedral, City walls, and Chester town centre, are all within walking distance of each other.

If you do decide to stay longer then you probably only really need 2 days at the most. This will at least give you some time to explore some of the quirky and fun bars in the city and experience the nightlife.

Chester really is a walkable city, so you won’t need to worry about navigating public transport on your day trip to Chester. A hop on hop off bus tour is a great way to get around the city if you don’t fancy walking.

Money is an important factor when visiting a new city, and so you might be wondering how much money you need for your Chester itinerary.

Chester is mid range when it comes to expense. It certainly isn’t as expensive as London, but maybe not quite as cheap as some of the smaller towns in England. A lot of the attractions in the city are free, like the City Walls, Roman Gardens, and Chester Cathedral.

You can also get some good deals on accommodation if you do decide to spend the night. A 4 star hotel in the city centre will set you back somewhere between £80-£120 per night.

When it comes to food a burger and chips plus a drink will usually cost you £20 or just under. It obviously depends on where you go, and the fancier the restaurant the more expensive it will be. A cocktail will cost on average around £10 and a pint is usually just over £5 but this depends again on where you go.

The best time of year to plan a day trip to Chester is during the warmer months. Summer is a good time to go with temperatures sitting around 25°C. Although keep in mind summer can be incredibly busy especially on weekends or during the school holidays.

Spring is one of our favourite times to go because the flowers in the city are in full bloom. And with so many beautiful parks it gives you the opportunity to see the daffodils, and other floral delights. Spring temperatures usually range between 3°C and 17°C.

If you are planning to visit Chester in winter, December is the best month to go. The city puts on a festive Christmas market just outside of town hall.

Here are some final tips for planning a day out in Chester.

Wear comfortable shoes, as you will probably do a lot of walking.
Be prepared for all weather – especially rain.
Book accommodation well in advance during busy seasons.
Book any restaurants for dinner or lunch on weekends especially.

If you are wondering if you should plan a day out in Chester, let this be your sign to go out and book it. Chester is a really magical and unique city. There is so much history that you just won’t get in other parts of England. It’s also a relaxed place that you can explore at your own pace. So for a real taste of English culture make sure you organise a day trip to Chester.

We hope this guide to planning a day out in Chester, has been useful. There is a lot to see and do in Chester, but if you plan your day carefully you really can make the most of exploring Chester in a day.

And if you are planning to visit any other historical UK cities we highly recommend York .

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How to Spend a Day in Chester: The Ultimate Itinerary

Wondering how to spend a day in Chester? This one-day itinerary will help you to experience the highlights of this charming city.

Despite its relatively modest size, Chester boasts nearly two thousand years of history. The city has witnessed the Romans, Vikings, and Normans. It flourished in the Medieval period and later underwent further transformation during the Georgian and Victorian eras.

Chester is home to many historic attractions, including the most complete set of defensive city walls in Britain. It features beautiful architecture, enjoyable experiences, and a wealth of independent shops, eateries, and art galleries.

Thanks to its compact size, Chester is an excellent destination for a day trip. That’s exactly how I visited, living as I do in the nearby city of Manchester.

This itinerary for a day in Chester includes all the main historic sites of the city, a visit to a museum, and recommendations for cafés and restaurants. I’ve also included one of my favourite afternoon teas in the city for good measure.

Without further ado, let’s dive into how you can maximise your next trip to Chester and enjoy everything the city has to offer.

Disclosure: Some of the links below are affiliate links, which means that at no additional cost to you, I may earn a small commission if you click through and make a purchase. Please note, I only recommend products and services that I know and love. Read full Privacy Policy here .

One Day in Chester Itinerary – Morning

This one day in Chester itinerary assumes that you arrive in the city nice and early in the morning to start your adventure.

10.00am – Walk Chester Walls

Ksenia standing outside just outside Eastgate with the Eastgate Clock in the background.

Chester boasts the oldest, longest, and most complete defensive city walls in Britain. Some parts of the walls date back to Roman times, nearly 2,000 years ago.

Over the centuries, they were modified and eventually ceased to serve as a defensive feature, becoming a walking promenade in the 18th century.

The main points of entry to the walls are at the four major gateways into the city: Northgate, Eastgate, Watergate, and Bridgegate, with other smaller entry points along the way.

Today, the walls offer a great way to get a feel for the city and provide amazing views over its many historic attractions. For this itinerary, let’s start our walk at Eastgate, above which sits the famous Eastgate Clock .

The elegant Eastgate Clock, installed in Victorian times to celebrate Queen Victoria’s Diamond Jubilee, is now considered the most photographed clock after Big Ben in London.

After admiring the Eastgate Clock, head north along the walls. You will soon reach one of the city’s most famous historic landmarks, Chester Cathedral . Although the current building was constructed in the 16th century, a church has stood there for nearly 1,000 years.

If you wish, you can leave the walls to explore the impressive interiors and tranquil courtyard of Chester Cathedral. Entry is £3.00 (US $3.80) per person. Alternatively, continue walking north along the walls, enjoying the views until you reach the next stop.

10.30am – Pit Stop at Rufus Court

As you continue walking along the city walls and taking in the views, you will shortly come across Rufus Court on your left, near Northgate. This historic courtyard is a hotspot for independent cafes, bars, and restaurants.

It’s a great place to have a quick pit stop with a hot drink and a pastry. Excellent options include Fika+ , which you can access directly from the city wall, or the Sunrise Patisserie , specialising in Pastel de Nata, the famous Portuguese tarts.

11.00am – Continue Walk Along Chester Walls

Once refuelled with a sugar and caffeine boost, you can continue your walk along the city walls. Along this section of the walls, you will come across the medieval Bonewaldesthorne’s Tower and Chester Racecourse , the oldest racecourse still in operation in the world.

The next attraction you will encounter is Chester Castle . Founded by William the Conqueror in 1070, only parts of the medieval structure remain today.

The castle is open to visitors from April to October. Be sure to check the opening times on the castle’s website before you go if you’re interested in visiting. Alternatively, you can simply enjoy it from the outside as you continue your walk along the walls.

Shortly after spotting Chester Castle, the city walls will lead you to the picturesque River Dee promenade, known as The Groves. Take some time to stroll along it and enjoy the beautiful views.

11.30am – Roman Amphitheatre and Gardens

Let’s continue along the city walls to the next set of historic attractions. Once you reach Newgate, take the stairs down to ground level. Just outside the gate and city walls, on the right, you will find the small but picturesque Roman Gardens .

These gardens contain numerous Roman artefacts discovered at various archaeological sites around Chester. Take a wander around this tranquil spot and learn more about the history of Roman Chester, thanks to the information boards located throughout the gardens.

Just a short walk from the gardens lies one of Chester’s most significant historic sites, the Roman Amphitheatre . Although today only a section of the amphitheatre is visible, it was once one of the largest in Britain.

The amphitheatre was originally used for entertainment and military training. Today, visitors can view the excavated areas of the amphitheatre and imagine what it was like to witness a spectacle there in times gone by.

Alternative: 10.30am – Chester Walking Tour (90 minutes)

If you would like to learn more about Chester’s fascinating history, instead of embarking on the self-guided walk suggested above, you can join a guided walking tour. Chester Walking Tours run daily guided tours starting at 10.30 am from the Town Hall Visitor Information Centre on Northgate Street.

The tour will cover the attractions featured in this itinerary. You can book your ticket in advance on the official website or directly from the guide on the day. The price of a ticket is £10 (US $12.70) per person.

12.00pm – Lunch

After a visit to the Roman Amphitheatre, you can return to the city walls at Newgate and walk back to where we started, at Eastgate. From there, you can go back to ground level and walk along Eastgate Street.

Eastgate Street is one of the streets where you will find the famous Chester Rows. However, before we take more time to explore them, let’s grab some quick lunch. Be sure to keep it light, as this one-day itinerary in Chester contains a decadent foodie experience later.

Popular choices for a light lunch are the Naughty Badger and the Jaunty Goat , both located on Bridge Street. To get there, just turn left once you reach Chester Cross.

Both places are popular with locals and visitors alike and serve delicious brunch staples, soups, and sandwiches.

One Day in Chester Itinerary – Afternoon

01.00pm – chester rows.

Chester Rows shopping galleries - one of the city's most famous architectural features.

After a pit stop at one of Chester’s popular independent cafés, it’s time to explore some more. If you chose to grab a bite at one of the suggested eateries, you will start this section of the itinerary on Bridge Street.

From there, take your time to explore the famous Chester Rows . These are a series of covered walkways connecting different buildings along Bridge Street, Eastgate Street, Northgate Street, and Watergate Street.

The Rows are accessible from street level via stairs, and today there are shops on both the ground and first-floor gallery levels.

The Rows are one of the finest examples of Medieval architecture. However, many facades today are Victorian replicas. The oldest surviving facade is the ‘Three Old Arches’ on Bridge Street, dating back to the 13th century.

The streets housing the Rows are a pleasure to wander around as they boast beautiful architecture and a vibrant atmosphere. Today, they accommodate a mix of independent and chain shops, cafés, and art galleries.

Take time to explore the Rows and check out some of the unique businesses located within the area.

02.00pm – Grosvenor Museum

The next stop on this itinerary is the Grosvenor Museum, just a short walk from the Chester Rows. It’s an excellent place to learn about the city’s history.

Discover what life was like in Roman Chester thanks to an extensive collection of archaeological artefacts found in the area, including rare Roman tombstones. There are also fascinating displays on Chester’s natural history and historic fine art from local artists.

The Grosvenor Museum also hosts temporary exhibitions, with the displays changing regularly. Check out the museum’s website to find out what’s on during your next visit.

Please note that the museum is closed on Mondays. Admission is free, but donations are always welcome.

03.30pm – Afternoon Tea

Ksenia enjoying an afternoon tea at Palm Cocktail Bar & Eatery

For something decadent and fun, I recommend including an afternoon tea experience as part of your one day in Chester. The city boasts great options, from classic afternoon teas in luxurious settings to innovative takes on this fine British tradition.

Chester Grosvernor

If you are after a classic experience, book a table at the Chester Grosvenor hotel on Eastgate Street. Their afternoon tea features delicious finger sandwiches, fluffy scones, and delicate sweet delights created by award-winning chefs.

If tea and coffee just don’t cut it, you can elevate your afternoon tea by treating yourself to a glass of champagne.

Traditional afternoon tea at Chester Grosvenor starts from £37.50 (US $48.00) per person. It’s a popular experience, so be sure to book in advance to avoid disappointment.

Palm Cocktail Bar and Eatery

For something funkier, head to the Palm Cocktail Bar and Eatery on Watergate Street. With its glamorous pink interiors, this Instagrammable spot is impossible to miss.

Palm’s afternoon tea serves a creative take on sandwiches featuring favourite British ingredients and international favourites, changing with the seasons. My husband and I visited Palm in January and enjoyed their festive selection, including delicious pigs in blankets.

Don’t worry, fluffy scones and sumptuous sweet treats are very much part of the experience, which includes replenishable tea, coffee, and hot chocolate. There’s also a cocktail version available.

Palm’s afternoon tea starts from £25.95 (US $33.00) per person. You can book your table in advance on the eatery’s website .

05.00pm – Grosvenor Park

No matter which afternoon tea you opt for, chances are you’ll be quite full afterwards. Let’s burn off some of those calories in the next part of this itinerary.

If your visit is in the summertime, head to the scenic Grosvenor Park . Just a note: if your visit is in winter, it might be dark by the time you finish your afternoon tea, so you might prefer to skip this section.

Established in the 19th century, the park features tree-lined avenues, ornamental flower beds, and large lawns – the classic elements of traditional Victorian gardens. Overlooking the River Dee, Grosvenor Park is simply a great place to relax and unwind.

06.00pm – Historic Pub

If you’re not quite ready to head home yet and still have the energy, why not enjoy a pint at one of Chester’s historic pubs to end the day on a high note? There are quite a few to choose from.

The Victoria Pub on Watergate Street is believed to be the oldest in Chester. Dating back to the 13th century, the pub features cosy interiors, exposed beams on a low ceiling, and a unique atmosphere that has remained largely unchanged for centuries.

It’s a fitting place to conclude a day of exploring historic Chester before heading home.

When is the Best Time to Visit Chester

Although winters in the UK are relatively mild, I recommend heading to Chester in late spring, summer or early autumn. This is when the temperatures are more pleasant, and the days are longer.

It’s worth noting that summer, especially July and August can get quite busy as this is when the school holidays take place. Be sure to book tables at restaurants, accommodation and activities in advance then to avoid disappointment.

If you do decide to brave the weather in winter, December is a great time to visit Chester as this is when you can experience the charming Christmas markets in the city. Dozens of traders showcase their unique crafts and local produce right in the heart of the city centre.

How to Get to Chester

Chester is connected to major UK cities such as London, Manchester, Liverpool, and Leeds by rail. Chester railway station is located a stone’s throw from the city centre, making it a convenient entry point.

You can also drive to Chester, where several car parks are available in the city centre, including Trinity Street, Delamere Street, and New Market. The costs vary slightly among these, but if you are spending a full day in Chester, expect to pay between £6.00 (US $7.60) and £10.00 (US $10.75) for the entire day.

I think taking the train is the easier way to get to Chester, as it simply reduces the hassle of dealing with traffic, which can be busy, especially on weekends.

How to Get Around Chester

Chester boasts a compact and walkable city centre. The attractions in this itinerary are all located within easy walking distance from each other.

Personally, I really enjoyed exploring the city on foot as it gives you a chance to take in the beautiful architecture and spot interesting features, public artwork and independent businesses.

In the past, visitors to Chester could also use the hop on-hop off sightseeing bus service to reduce the amount of walking, but on our last trip in January 2024 it was not operating. I recommend checking the official website of this service before you go if it’s something you would like to do.

Budget for a Day in Chester

The most expensive part of this itinerary will likely be the food, especially the afternoon tea. The historic attractions featured here are either free or low-cost.

If you decide to indulge in an afternoon tea as part of your day in Chester, budget approximately £100 – £120 (US $127 – $153) for two people. Without the afternoon tea, this budget could be easily halved.

Transport costs are not included in this estimate, and they will vary depending on your mode of travel and starting point. If you’re travelling to Chester by train, bear in mind that fares can vary depending on the day of the week.

If you’re planning an overnight stay in the city, add an additional £80 – £140 (US $102 – $178) per night, depending on your chosen accommodation’s standard. Opting for top-end luxury will naturally cost more.

Where to Stay in Chester

If you would like to stay overnight in Chester to extend your trip, here are some great options at different price points.

Budget: The Ormonde Guesthouse

Just a stone’s throw from the famous Chester Rows, this small hotel offers spacious, comfortable rooms with traditional touches. With free parking available, it’s an excellent choice for those driving to Chester.

There is no restaurant on site, but a variety of eateries are within a short distance. Whether you’re looking for breakfast or dinner, you’ll find what you need nearby.

Mid-Range: Oddfellows Chester Hotel & Apartments

Occupying an elegant Georgian building, Oddfellows hotel features unique interiors that blend classic design, original features, and modern touches with a splash of quirkiness. Each room in this boutique hotel has its own unique look and personality.

Oddfellows Chester is renowned for its excellent restaurant, offering a stylish setting and a sumptuous menu of modern British cuisine. For an indulgent treat, be sure to try their unique take on afternoon tea.

Luxury: The Chester Grosvenor

Situated in the heart of Chester city centre, The Chester Grosvenor hotel is a historic establishment offering traditional luxury and unparalleled comfort. Each room is individually decorated, featuring luxury finishes and stylish furniture.

The hotel houses two excellent restaurants: the award-winning The Arkle and the Parisian-inspired La Brasserie. To elevate your Chester experience, be sure to take advantage of the Grosvenor’s exceptional spa.

Final Thoughts

I hope this itinerary for an unforgettable day in Chester will inspire you to visit this charming historic city. You could even extend this to a whole weekend, including more experiences in the city itself or in nearby attractions like the famous Chester Zoo.

If you’re interested in exploring other great destinations in this part of the UK, take a look at these guides to weekends in Manchester and Liverpool . Although different from Chester in their feel and scale, these cities offer a wealth of attractions and activities to explore.

For history lovers, adding the city of York to their bucket list is a must. It’s one of those rare places where the marks left by the Romans, Vikings, Normans, and many others are still visible.

FAQs: How to Spend a Day in Chester

One day in Chester is enough to see the city’s main historic attractions. If you would like to take your time and include visits to attractions not located in the city centre, such as Chester Zoo, then allocating a weekend would be more sensible for this trip.

Yes, Chester is absolutely worth visiting, especially if you are exploring nearby cities or national parks in the North West or Wales. Chester boasts a beautiful historic city centre, featuring the most complete Roman and medieval defensive walls in Britain, charming architecture, and fun activities for the whole family. With its green spaces and a waterside promenade, it’s an ideal place for a leisurely stroll.

Chester is renowned for being home to many significant heritage sites. These include the largest Roman amphitheatre in Britain, the oldest racecourse, the most complete defensive city walls, and the unique Chester Rows shopping galleries. All of these are located within Chester’s compact city centre, making exploration effortless and enjoyable.

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How to Spend One Day in Chester

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Looking for the best things to do in Chester when visiting on a day trip? This itinerary shows you the best spots!

With Chester only being a short drive from my home in Manchester, I love visiting it. The beautiful buildings, the warm and cosy atmosphere and some great places to eat and drink.

The first time I visited Chester was during my first year living in the UK, and my roommate and I went down for the day. Unfortunately, we ended up. hiding from the rain in a cafe pretty much all day. But a day trip to Chester has so much more to offer than that!

This North West English city was founded as a Roman fortress in the first century, giving the city its rich history that can be found back anywhere in the gorgeous city centre. The Tudor style buildings, Roman ruins and friendly atmosphere makes Chester the UK city break destination. But what you should do when spending one day in Chester?

One day in Chester itinerary

Shopping in the Rows

The iconic Tudor styled buildings really give Chester that English feel. The Rows in Chester are a perfect example of this. This two-level galleried arcade was built in Victorian and Tudor style and is filled with amazing independent shops. Some parts of the Rows date back to the 13th century!

Coffee break at Flower Cup

Three of my favourite things put together into one coffee shop: brunch, coffee and plants. You can find this independent botanical coffee shop in Chester’s Rows. Alongside their adorable interior (plants and neon signs!), they serve some great speciality coffees. As well as a variety of filter coffees, they also serve teas from Manchester’s Tea From The Manor.

Flower Cup also does a crazy good brunch. Served all day long! Vegan options are available, too! If you happen to fall in love with any of the plants in the shop – no need for a tragic goodbye. Head over to their sister shop next door: The Violet Palm. They sell all the plants, pots and soil for you to take home with you.

Address: 61 Watergate St, South, Chester CH1 2LE

Capture the Eastgate Clock

When in Chester, you have to see the second most photographed clock in the UK (after Big Ben): The Eastgate Clock. The Eastgate of the ancient walls was built in Georgian times to allow coaches to get into the city, but the clock wasn’t introduced until 1897. It was a celebration of Queen Victoria’s Diamond Jubilee and has since grown into an important and iconic symbol of Chester.

Walk the ancient Chester City Wall

Chester’s ancient city walls are probably one of the biggest highlights you should check out when visiting Chester for the day. These city walls are the oldest, longest and best preserved in the whole of Britain.

Chester is also the only UK city with a full circuit of walls. With over 2000 years of age, these walls date back to when the Romans built them to protect the fortress of Deva Victrix in 70-80 AD. It now serves as a popular tourist attraction. You can walk the full circuit (1.8 miles/ 2.95 kilometres) and walk across all four gates.

Also worth noting is King Charles’ Tower. In 1645, King Charles watched the defeat of his troops from this tower during the English Civil War.

Fresh donuts at Dinky Donuts

Before heading up Chester’s Wall, you’d want to make a quick little pitstop for some sugary snacks at Dinky Donuts. This cute little donut shop is located right under the Eastgate bridge, right next to the steps that lead you up the wall. I tried some of the freshly made cinnamon sugar donuts and – oh my, they were amazing!

A perfect little snack for your walk on the city walls, especially when it’s a bit colder outside. What’s worth mentioning is that all their straws, cups, lids, trays and forks are made from non-plastic materials, their oil is reused and they make sure their business has minimal impact on the environment. I’m all for that and I’m so happy to hear that Dinky Donuts is doing their bit!

Address: Eastgate St, Chester CH1 1LD

Admire the Cathedral

Even though I don’t consider myself a religious person, there’s something about visiting cathedrals. And Chester’s cathedral is one amazing piece of architecture that should be admired. In total, it took almost 500 years to build.

This gorgeous cathedral was founded in 1092 and was built on a spot where a former church once stood. Around the year 1250, the cathedral was rebuilt in a more Gothic style.

As well as a gift shop, a cafe (with a stunning stained glass window), you can also find a miniature version of the cathedral built in Lego stones inside!

Address: St Werburgh St, Chester CH1 2DY Entree price: Free, but donations are welcome

Visit the Roman Gardens & Amphitheatre

Between the river Dee and the city walls, you can find Chester’s Roman Gardens. Because of Chester’s rich history and connection with Roman times, many artefacts and ruins remained in the city. These gardens were constructed in 1949 and display building fragments from the Roman fortress of Deva. You can also find the ruins of an old bathhouse, a Roman underfloor heating system and the famous amphitheatre .

Chester’s Roman amphitheatre is the biggest stone-built amphitheatre in the whole of Britain. It’s managed by English Heritage and it’s often a place where outdoor theatre productions are held.

Lunch at Jaunty Goat Coffee

I’m a sucker for independent cafes, as you might have noticed. My reasons for visiting Jaunty Goat Coffee? This cafe is so popular, they opened a SECOND cafe just a few streets from their first establishment.

The second cafe (which can be found on 128 Northgate) is completely vegan, which I absolutely adore. It’s actually the first fully vegan cafe in Chester! Alongside their clean and minimalist interior, I’m a big fan! You can get some incredible brunch/lunch items as well as coffees and a range of delicious loose leaf teas.

Address : 128 Northgate St, Chester CH1 2HT (Vegan) & 57 Bridge St, Chester CH1 1NG

Visit the Storyhouse

This cultural hub opened in May 2017 and houses a library, cinema, theatre and a cafe. As well as offering over 2000 yearly activities for local groups, the Storyhouse is also the home of many festivals including the Chester Literature Festival and the Storyhouse Festival of Languages.

It’s a perfect place to catch a movie or simply sit and get some work done with a coffee by your side. It’s a place of community and you can feel that through and through.

Address: Hunter St, Chester CH1 2AR

Dutch Snack at Chip’d

Walking through the streets of Chester, I definitely didn’t expect to find a little pick-me-up from my recent homesickness. But I did! Chip’d is a Dutch Style chip shop and it does an amazing job at traditional Dutch chips and fried snacks (bitterballen and frikandellen).

Their chips are prepared using a special Dutch frying technique, and they really do taste authentically Dutch! It really reminded me of all the snack bars in the Netherlands.

Address: 124 Northgate St, Chester CH1 2HT Opening hours: Open every day from 11 AM till 6 PM (with late opening hours on Friday and Saturday, when Chip’d is open until 8 PM).

Chester Zoo

Like I mentioned before, I’m always a bit wary when it comes to animals combined with tourism. We had a horrible time visiting owl cafes in Japan , for example… But Chester Zoo is definitely a zoo I can get behind. They are possibly the most ethical zoo in the UK .

The Zoo funds global charities that support animals all across the globe, as well as putting a lot of money into research to get closer to extinction prevention of some amazing species. You can find a list of all their current projects here. That’s definitely something to support!

Address: Chester CH2 1EU

How to get to Chester?

By train: From Manchester , it takes between 1 and 1.5 hours to get to Chester by train. From London, this journey takes about 2.5 to 3 hours.

By car: Driving to Chester is one of the easiest ways to get to Chester. You can park at the Race Court for a fiver per day (or a tenner if you’re planning to leave your car overnight). Make sure to bring cash, though! They don’t accept card.

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Nele (Nay-la) graduated from Manchester Metropolitan University with an English and Creative Writing Degree and has lived in the UK for nearly 10 years. She has had an interest in Japan and its culture for as long as she can remember. Since her first trip in 2018 surpassed all expectations, she has continued to return to Japan to explore more of all it has got to offer. You can read her full story here .

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1-Day Chester Itinerary

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Things to Do in Chester in One Day: Exploring One of England’s Most Historic Cities

If you’re looking for a few of the best things to do in Chester, then you’ve come to the right place. And, if you don’t have much time at your disposal, you may be pleased to know that all of the things to do in Chester that I’ve listed in this post can be completed in just one day in the city.

Inspired by my recent day trip to Birmingham , when last month’s payday rolled around and I found myself with a flexi-day at my disposal (one of the great benefits of working in the Public Sector), I decided that it was time to re-discover the delights of my old university city.

Much as I loved living in Chester, as a student I didn’t really have the disposable income to explore the place as a tourist might. I did explore the inside of a few of its pubs (the Old Boot Inn up on the rows was a firm favourite), spent many a Summer afternoon studying relaxing in Grosvenor Park, and became a regular customer of my closest supermarket – Tesco on Frodsham Street – but that was about the extent of my familiarisation with the city.

And once I moved away, Chester became somewhere I primarily used for the odd shopping trip every now and then. Because I’d lived there for three years, it didn’t feel exotic enough as a place to visit for tourism purposes.

But now, enough time had passed that I was curious. So, I did a quick bit of internet research on things to do in Chester and places to eat and drink, and hopped on a train early last Friday morning, aiming to arrive in time to enjoy breakfast in the city.

Some of the links in this post are affiliate links. All this means is that if you make a purchase through one of the links I have provided, I will earn a small commission as a result but the cost to you will remain exactly the same.

Things to do in Chester

1 | have breakfast at bean and cole.

Prior to visiting I contacted Bean and Cole via their Facebook page to ask if they served breakfast and whether they could send me a photo of their menu. Less than five minutes later two photos turned up in my inbox, one of their standard daily menu and one of their specials menu that changes every few weeks, along with an offer to adapt or combine any of the menu items to my personal taste. This may have been prompted by my question,

“is it possible to have avocado AND salmon toast?”

Ian McCardle and his partner Nicole were inspired to open Bean and Cole following a year-long trip to Australia. Although coffee is the primary focus here, they do have a small menu that focuses on seasonal food sourced from local suppliers. Bean and Cole has only been open since June 2018 and already they are rated number 3 out of a total of 352 restaurants in Chester on Trip Advisor.

Although they don’t serve eggs, as soon as I tasted my smashed avocado and rocket on toast with a side of fresh smoked salmon, I didn’t really miss not having them.

Address : 41 Frodsham Street, Chester, CH1 3JJ | Opening times : 08:30-17:00 hours Monday to Friday, 09:00-18:00 hours on a Saturday and 10:00-16:00 hours on a Sunday.

2 | Photograph the famous Eastgate Clock

The Eastgate clock is just a couple of minutes’ walk from Bean and Cole, and if you arrive there just after breakfast it should still be quiet enough for you to capture a photograph without the crowds. You’ll pass Lush on route, if you need to stock up on your eco-friendly toiletries (I’m a huge fan of their products but we don’t have a store in my hometown).

Said to be the most photographed clock in England after Big Ben, Chester’s Eastgate Clock was designed by architect John Douglas and was added to the top of the gateway in 1889.

3 | Walk the 2.9 kilometre circuit of the old city walls

If you’ve not visited Chester before, this is a great way to orientate yourself with the city. You can hop on the walls right by the Eastgate Clock and follow them in a rectangular-shaped circuit around the city.

Chester is actually the only city in Britain to retain the full circuit of its defensive city walls. Its walls are also the oldest (parts date back over 2000 years) and longest existing defensive city walls remaining in the UK. They incorporate several medieval structures (primarily towers), as well as four major medieval gates – of which the aforementioned Eastgate is one.

Not only will a walk along the walls give you a fantastic insight into Chester’s long history, but due to the fact that the majority of the circuit is completed along a raised walkway, you’ll also be treated to some fantastic views of the city as well as alternative perspectives of its famous landmarks.

4 | Visit the cathedral and take a tower tour

Chester Cathedral started life as a Benedictine Abbey in 1093, but has been functioning as a cathedral since 1541. It’s the most imposing building in the city and is definitely well worth a visit. The cathedral houses the most complete set of monastic buildings in the country, as well as a picturesque Georgian Square at its core.

If you’ve got a head for heights and are interested in learning a little more about the history of the cathedral, you can book yourself on one of their multi-award winning tower tours – Cathedral at Height . There are two tours to choose from – a 30-minute tour (the one I did) which visits the tower and bell-ringing chamber, or a 60-minute one which also goes up into the cathedral galleries.

The tours only run at certain times of the day and I would advise booking in advance to secure your place. The view from the top of the cathedral tower is arguably the best you’ll get of Chester without a drone.

View of Chester from the top of the cathedral tower

Even if you’re not much of a history buff, there is a regular calendar of cultural events to keep you entertained.

Saving the Deep is a topical, thought-provoking installation by Jacha Potgieter that’s currently on display (finishes on 31 October 2019) in the cathedral’s cloisters. It incorporates sculptures that have been created from waste collected from just three beach visits.

5 | Check out the medieval-era Rows

Chester Rows are covered walkways above the ground level buildings on four of Chester’s main streets (Watergate Street, Northgate Street, Eastgate Street and Upper Bridge Street) and are accessed by sets of stone steps, located at regular intervals along these streets.

Along the rows you’ll find entrances to more shops, cafes, restaurants and pubs that are, in most cases, not accessible from ground level.

The Rows are unique to Chester and no-one really knows why they’ve been built in this way, but records of their existence date back as far as 1293.

6 | Stop for coffee at the Jaunty Goat

You’re probably well overdue a coffee by now, so before heading outside the city walls, stop at The Jaunty Goat for a pick-me-up. There are two Jaunty Goats in Chester now – the original one on Bridge Street and the new one on Northgate Street, which is an entirely animal-free vegan cafe. If you prefer your coffee with cow’s milk, you’ll need to head to the one on Bridge Street.

I always favour independently-owned coffee shops over popular high street chains and Jaunty Goat serve great tasting, traceable coffee in a relaxed environment with beautiful, Scandinavian-inspired decor.

It’s not the cheapest but I’ve always received great service here and the staff are clearly passionate about their craft.

7 | Learn about Chester’s Roman history at Britain’s largest Roman Amphitheatre

Although you’ll find Roman remains all over the city (a window in the floor of Pret a Manger on Northgate Street reveals some original Roman pillars in the basement, and you’ll also find an old Roman heating system beneath Bridge Street’s Spud-u-Like ), Chester’s Roman Amphitheatre is definitely the star of the show.

You’ll find it smack bang in the middle of the city at the bottom of St. John Street, so a visit here does feel rather surreal. You can walk out the Travelodge hotel on Bridge Street (a symbol of the modern world) and be standing inside a piece of centuries-old history in less than a minute.

Also less than a minute away, on Pepper Street, you’ll find Chester’s Roman Gardens. Bordered by the city walls and containing fragments of excavated fortresses, the Roman Gardens were constructed in 1949 and are a peaceful little haven away from the crowds of Chester’s nearby shopping streets.

8 | Search for the medieval coffin of St. John

Just past the ancient Roman amphitheatre outside the city walls lies the half-ruined Church of St. John the Baptist . Dating back to the 11th century, the sandstone structure is a mix of Norman and early English Gothic architecture and is one of the oldest churches in Chester.

The church is pretty nice inside, but you’ll need to head to the ruins outside to search for the medieval coffin.

The ruined part of St. John the Baptist Church, Chester

It took me a while to find it, but if you walk inside the South Eastern Chapel (identifiable by the metal plaque on a low table with stones placed on top), turn around 180 degrees and then look up, you’ll see a wooden coffin (carved out of a single block of oak) set high into the right hand arch.

The coffin was discovered by a church sexton while digging up a grave in a disused section of the cemetery, and placed out of the reach of passersby upon order of the rector.

9 | Take a wander around Grosvenor Park

Grosvenor Park is a Grade II registered, Green Flag Award winning public park that overlooks the river Dee just outside of Chester’s historic walls.

I used to love spending time here as a student. I studied English Literature so a lot of my time working towards my degree was spent reading books, and I can’t think of a nicer place in the centre of the city to do just that – especially on a warm, sunny Summer’s day.

Something new I discovered about Grosvenor Park though, this time around, is the number of grey squirrels there are scurrying up and down the trees. This one even stood on the grass and posed for me.

You’ll also find some interesting pieces of artwork scattered around.

10 | Head down to the river

Once you’ve admired it from above in Grosvenor Park, you can then follow a series of stone steps down towards the river Dee. You’ll arrive at Queens Park Bridge, where a left-hand turn will take you to the Boathouse (an attractive riverside pub, which also used to be a firm university favourite) or a right-hand turn will take you a little further along the river to the Old Dee Bridge. For the purposes of this itinerary, you’ll need to take a right.

Admire the picturesque riverside views to your left before turning back into the centre of town up Lower Bridge Street.

Lower Bridge Street is home to some beautiful old architecture, including Ye Olde Kings Head, a timber-framed building that dates back to 1208.

11 | Admire some artwork courtesy of Chester Visual Arts

Chester Visual Arts are a charity whose primary goal is to create a permanent public art gallery in Chester. You can check out their website to find out about the exhibitions and installations currently on display in the city.

As I write this (August 2019), the major V&A (Victoria and Albert) exhibition ‘Chance and Control: Art in the Age of Computers’ is making its first stop on its tour outside of London, at the Old Library on Northgate Street. It features some really interesting artwork from the pioneers of digital art over the past 50 years.

The exhibition is open Wed-Sun 11:00-17:00 hours, until Sunday 8 September 2019. Admission is free but donations are appreciated.

12 | Enjoy some delicious plant-based food at Hypha

Hypha market themselves as:

“Chester’s first plant-based sustainable venue.”

This immediately appealed to me because, whilst I’m not vegan (I would love to be but I have such a weakness for cheese!), I do love vegan food, and every single vegan restaurant I’ve ever eaten at has been amazing!

Hypha was no exception.

Their small-plate menu (they don’t like to call it tapas because, well, it’s not Spanish) is micro-seasonal, so it changes regularly depending on what’s fresh and what’s most easily sourced in any given month.

It took me what seemed like an age of perusing the menu to finally narrow my choice down to three dishes. I went for:

Roast fennel and citrus hummus, with za’atar, extra virgin olive oil, fennel fronds and sourdough flatbread.
Kale, brown rice and avocado salad, with white sesame brown rice, micro mint and “pico de gallo” shrub.
Hand-cut dan dan noodles, with ginger and garlic minced tofu, mixed peppercorns, pickled pak choi, micro coriander, spring onion, white sesame and roasted chilli oil.

Every thing was absolutely perfect and bursting with flavour. And I just about managed to eat it all!

13 | Take a walk along the canal towpath

As I was heading back to the train station after my meal at Hypha, the quickest route there was along the canal towpath, so I was able to tick another activity off the itinerary.

To be honest, I’d actually forgotten Chester even had canals.

The Shropshire Union Canal skirts Chester’s old city walls, running for a total of 107 kilometres (66.5 miles) from Ellesmere Port to Autherley Junction Stop Lock, close to Oxley, north Wolverhampton.

Assuming you’re not leaving Chester along its canal towpath, you’ll need to jump off by the Old Harkers Arms. This brings you back up on to City Road, just minutes from Chester’s train station, from where you can head home.

Getting to Chester

Chester is located in the north west of England close to the border of Wales (in fact, my train journey from Shrewsbury takes me through the Welsh towns of Ruabon, Chirk and Wrexham). It’s 318 kilometres and a three hour forty minute journey by car from London. If you take the train, it’s slightly quicker.

Alternatively, it’s just an hour from Manchester or 40 minutes from Liverpool, so makes a great day trip if you’re visiting either of those cities.

If you’re travelling by train within the UK, you can save a lot of money by booking fares in advance. Book your tickets with trainline via Top Cashback and you’ll even get cash back too!

Where to stay in Chester

As I live only a 60-minute train journey from Chester and I had no plans to explore the city’s nightlife on a Friday night on my own, I didn’t factor in an overnight stay on this occasion. But I did my research on places to stay in Chester, should I visit again in the future with Stu or friends in tow.

Although I do splash out from time to time , I’m mostly a budget traveller, so all these properties advertise rooms on a Friday or Saturday night for under £100 (correct August 2019).

1 | Hotel Indigo

Take one look at the photos of this place and you’d think you’d be paying prices well in excess of £100; it’s stunning!

Newly opened in 2019 and located just inside the walls on the eastern edge of the city centre, Hotel Indigo has 75 guest rooms and its very own restaurant that’s owned and run by Chef Patron Simon Wood, MasterChef Champion in 2015.

Breakfast is a bit pricey at £17 per head, but I imagine that’s where the hotel makes its money.

2 | Base Serviced Apartments City Road

A short walk from Chester’s train station, Base Serviced Apartments City Road offer serviced apartments (complete with fully-fitted kitchen, dining area and lounge) and double rooms.

The double rooms even came in at under £50 per night on the dates I checked.

3 | The Coach House Inn

You can’t get much more central than this – right opposite Chester Cathedral. The Coach House Inn is, as its name suggests, a former 19th century coaching inn. There’s only eight rooms, so don’t leave it too late to book!

Both the pub (downstairs) and accommodation (upstairs) have won awards, and reviewers praise the “friendly staff,” “central location,” and “great breakfast,” the latter of which is included in the room rate.

4 | Roomzzz Chester City

Roomzzz is a modern apartment-style hotel located next to the city’s racecourse and just 300 metres from the the cathedral and central shopping area.

All apartments come with a fully-equipped kitchen, but if you’d rather not use it to cook all your meals, there’s a ‘grab-and-go’ breakfast included each morning.

5 | The Towpath Campus Accommodation

Really smart, modern, and brand new (opened July 2019) budget accommodation that’s located just 500 metres from Chester Cathedral, along – as the name suggests – one of the canal towpaths.

Each private room comes with its own shower room, and access to a huge shared kitchen and living area. For the dates I checked the nightly price for a double room was just £42.

It’s also just a stone’s throw from what used to be (and still is as far as I can fathom) one of Chester’s best live music venues – Telford’s Warehouse.

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13 Wonderful Things to Do in Chester, England _ Gallop Around The Globe

Kiara Gallop

Hi I'm Kiara, the travel blogger and photographer behind Gallop Around The Globe. I can usually be found hiking up mountains, getting lost in the cobblestone streets of my favourite cities, making friends with a furry feline or two, photographing cacti, or grazing on olives and cheese.

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Really really good blog on Chester, did I miss something ? did you actually do all this in the day. You must’ve been shattered by the end… Love your images as well. I haven’t tried Hypha yet, but 9 Elephants their sister restaurant is one of my favorites. I also recently did a things to do in Chester blog. Not as in -depth as yours https://inchesterwalls.com/2019/09/22/9-things-to-do-in-chester/

Haha, no you didn’t miss anything, I did actually do all that in a day! Obviously I didn’t spend a massive amount of time at each place, but I did do A LOT of walking (and only made one brief coffee stop) in order to cover that much ground. Your things to do in Chester blog looks great 🙂 If I’d have stopped overnight in the city, I would have loved to have seen a show at the Storybook Theatre, and I’m bookmarking 9 Elephants for my next visit.

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England Travel , Travel · June 27, 2021

14 Things To Do In Chester On A Day Trip

This post will be sharing 14 things to do in Chester on a day trip.

To officially kick off my 2021 Summer bucket list, I took a day trip to Chester about a week ago. For those that are new here, I live in England and we still have really tight travel restrictions. So for now, we can’t really take international trips because we have a very limited list of countries we can go to without quarantine. After been on lockdown for over a year and almost losing my mind, I decided that I was gonna take trips around England pending the time we are able to travel again.

So, after spending my birthday in York about two weeks ago, I drew up a list of cities I can take day trips to. To begin with, the North of England. While I’ve been to Leeds , Blackpool , Stoke-on-Trent , Birmingham and Manchester where I reside, there are still a few places I want to cover before the end of the Summer.

Getting To Chester from Manchester

The beauty about visiting neighbouring cities in the North of England is that they’re usually about an hour away. In fact, that’s my major motivation for still staying around the North. Anything more than two hours on a train exhausts me. That’s why I hardly go to London except it’s absolutely necessary.

As I typically do with my day trips, I went over to National Express and Trainline to compare prices and pick the cheapest option and shortest distance. For less than £15, I got a return train ticket to Chester via Manchester Victoria.

The journey took about an hour and before noon, I arrived at Chester Train Station ready to explore.

Here Are 14 Things To Do In Chester As A Solo Traveller

Similar to York, the city of Chester was also founded by the Romans as a fort as far back as AD 79. According to Wikipedia , It was initially used as a battleground between warring Welsh and Saxon kingdoms throughout the post-Roman years. The city also grew as a trading port until the Port of Liverpool overtook it. Over time, it has become a place of escape from busy and industries cities like Manchester and Liverpool. Read more about the history of Chester .

Like most cities in the UK, Chester is also one of those cities that has a lot of history. So it’s useful to trace it to better understand the city during exploration. So, if you’re looking to check out Chester for a day trip, here is a walking tour of mostly free things you can do.

Take photos by the iconic Eastgate Clock

14 Things To Do In Chester On A Day Trip

Once I arrived at Chester Train Station, I took a nice walk down to the city centre while marvelling at the architecture and taking landscape photos. Check out my Unsplash account for more images. Even without checking my itinerary, the first attraction I got to was the Eastgate Clock. It was right there in the middle of the city centre completely unmissable. Of course, I had to climb in and take photos. Unfortunately, this was where I found out that I forgot my phone mount at home. Imagine bringing a tripod without a phone mount. I was so sad. Plus I couldn’t for the life of me find anyone to take photos of me so I just kept it moving.

Fun Fact : The Eastgate Clock was built to commemorate Queen Victoria’s Diamond Jubilee of 1897.

Now, if you want to walk through the Chester City Walls you can completely start from this point. In fact, it is advisable to take the City Walls Trail and get it over and done with. After missing out on York’s City Walls, there’s no way I would miss Chesters’ for anything.

Visit the Chester Cathedral

If you decide to postpone the City Wall Trail a little longer and go through the Northgate like I did, then you might as well tick some attractions off your itinerary. The Chester Cathedral was built as far back as the year 907. During this time, it has been rebuilt about three times. The current structure and design have been maintained since 1250. I think there was a service going on when I got there. Otherwise, it is completely free to enter.

Stop by the Chester Town Hall.

There’s nothing I love more than iconic town halls with impressive architecture. While this was closed due to COVID, it’s nice to appreciate the grey and red sandstone, Gothic-style Town Hall with its tower and spire rising to a height of 160 feet. Don’t forget to grab a couple of souvenirs from the Chester Visitor Information Centre. For some reason, there was a scarcity of roadside souvenir shops in Chester.

See a movie or relax at Storyhouse

Ideally, this should be your last stop before your train back, this way, you can just relax with a movie, a meal or visit the library after a long day walking around the city, But because this post is a walking tour and Storyhouse is along the way, there’s no way to skip it without messing it up. So remember that you can always go back or stop right there; whatever works for you.

Climb the Chester City Walls

This was easily one of the highlights of my trip to Chester. Seeing as I unknowingly forgot to climb the York City Walls, I had to make up for it somehow. While the experience was exhilarating, it was slightly scary because I’m not that great with heights. Every single time, I thought I would fall off, I had to remind myself of how old those stone city walls were. Yeah, they might look crooked and disjointed in some areas but that doesn’t take away how resilient the walls are.

Remember the city of Chester was founded as a fort, so you get to see the Norman defences, Roman fortifications/walls, Chester Castle and the city gates. These include the Pemberton’s Parlour, The Water Tower, Bonewaldesthorne’s Tower, North-West Angle Tower and King Charles Tower . The best thing about this trail is the breathtaking city views. I had a lot of fun taking pictures.

If you can’t make it to Chester, check out this virtual stroll around the city walls.

Watch a show at Grosvenor Park Open Theatre

One of the great things about Summer in England is the events and festivals across the country. If you want to catch an event at Grosvenor Park Open Theatre, make sure you plan your trip to fall on any of those dates. Check their website for more details on Summer events,

Take a walk down the Queens Park Bridge

If you feel like you need a quick escape from the hustle and bustle of the city centre, you’ll enjoy this peaceful walk down the Queens Park Bridge with scenic views. This picturesque bridge suspended across the River Dee was built in 1852. It’s the perfect spot to relax and just enjoy the weather, especially during the Summer. I honestly cannot wait to go back and take more pictures.

Take a Boat Ride via the Chester Boat

If you feel like simply walking through the Queens Park Bridge is not enough, you can hire a boat just by the shore. Remember, the bridge is suspended above a river so the best way to thoroughly enjoy the scenic views is to hire a boat. For less than £10, you can sail across the River Dee for thirty minutes. Yeah, I’m definitely going back to Chester specifically for this boat ride. Make sure you book your tickets online as they’re usually cheaper.

Stop by the Parish Cathedral Church of St. John the Baptist

If you have noticed so far, I haven’t listed any museum. This is because they were all closed as at the time I visited. But for some reason, the cathedrals were open. Unlike the York Minister, you don’t have to pre-book or anything before going in. You can just walk in and join a service if you want.

This is a sandstone Anglican church that dates back to the 11th century.

Explore the Roman Amphitheatre

Just opposite the Parish cathedral Church of St. John the Baptist is the iconic ruins of Britain’s largest Roman amphitheatre. Built-in the late first century AD, it was used both for entertainments and for practising troop manoeuvres and weapon training. Read more about the history of the Roman Amphitheatre .

As a result of being mostly ruins, as far as I know, it was open and free to the public. You could clearly see a few people stop by and just marvel at the history right in front of their eyes. While a couple of people sat on the grass, you could see a bunch of kids listening to a tour guide dressed in Roman attire most likely narrating the history of the amphitheatre.

Talk a walk around the Roman Gardens

A stone throw from the Roman amphitheatre is the iconic Roman Gardens. This is also another surprisingly free to enter park and garden. It was constructed in 1949 by Graham Webster, then curator of the Grosvenor Museum, and Charles Greenwood to display the building fragments from the Roman legionary fortress of Deva, including pieces from some of the most important military buildings, the main baths and the legionary headquarters and general artefacts found throughout the city. Think of it as a garden-style outdoor museum. Read more about the history of the Roman Gardens .

Again, I’m suprised that it is free to the public. You can just walk in, take a nice walk, have a snack if you like and enjoy the scenery. I managed to get a few pictures taken by a stranger but they were not my favourite.

Shop or Grab at Bite at the Grosvenor Shopping Centre

During a day trip, it is important to factor in your meal breaks. It’s so easy to walk all day and forget to have a lunch break. Sometimes I do until I really get hungry and I’m forced to stop and take a break. If you’re a foodie, you can try out any of the restaurants that appeal to you. Otherwise, fast food always works. Don’t worry, you’ll probably burn off the calories from walking around the city.

The shops in this shopping centre are mostly clothing, accessories and electronic stores with a few coffee shops.

Visit the Sick To Death

If you’re curious about the gory history of medicine and how we have been able to survive various pandemics and plagues throughout history, you’ll find Sick to Death fascinating. Unlike the rest of the attractions, you’ll have to book your slot for a self-guided tour for £6.

Pick a few things at Chester Market

By the time I got to Chester Market at the end of the day, the stalls have all closed. So I couldn’t really grab anything. If shopping is one of your goals on day trips, you have to priortize them first. Otherwise, by the time you’re done exploring the city and back, they would have closed. This is England. These markets close at 5pm. Funny enough, this is exactly the same thing that happened to me at the Shambles Market in York.

As a travel blogger, shopping isn’t really my priority so I’m not so bothered if I get anything or not. My goal is to be able to visit and document as many attractions as possible.

In Conclusion,

Yes, I’m sure you noticed that I didn’t bother going to the Chester Zoo. That’s a trip for another day. There’s no way I could have squeezed that in one day.

As you can see, Chester packs quite a punch. I love how lowkey it is. This way, most attraction stay free to the public. Obviously, the more popular a city is with tourists, the less free the attractions are.

I hope you have found this list of things in the do in Chester very useful as much as I did.

A note of warning: there are quite a lot senior citizens in Chester. You’ll find them everywhere particularly taking a nice walk along the Chester City Walls. There’s nothing like aging gracefully in a calm scene city.

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England: What to do in Chester – 1 day itinerary

Last updated: 03/09/2022

Check out this complete itinerary to explore the best of the English city of Chester in just 1 day. Here you will find a lot of historical information, suggestions for attractions in the city and many more tips to have an amazing day in the city.

THE CITY OF CHESTER

Chester is a town located in the county of Cheshire about 300 km northwest of London and close to the border with the Wales . The city is crossed by the River Dee and has about 350 thousand inhabitants. It was founded as a Roman fort under the name of Deva Victrix in the year 79 AD and is one of the walled cities best preserved in Britain. The walls began to be built by the Romans and enlarged and strengthened by the Saxons, due to the threats of the Vikings. Chester was one of the last cities in England to fall under Norman rule after the invasion in 1066 . King William the Conqueror ordered a castle to be built to secure the Welsh border near the city.

A large amount of Chester's land is owned by the Duke of Westminster. “Grosvenor” is the name of the Duke's family and, therefore, several places in the city bear that name, such as: Grosvenor Bridge, Grosvenor Hotel and Grosvenor Park. Much of Chester's architecture dates from the Victorian era and many of the buildings were modeled in the Jacobean half-timbered, white and black style, commissioned by the Duke.

Currently, the city's economy is based on services that encompass tourism, retail, public administration and financial services. A curiosity is that Daniel Craig, the first blond actor to play James Bond (the agent 007) in the cinema, is born in Chester.

WHAT TO DO IN CHESTER

To facilitate your 1-day tour of Chester, all attractions suggested in this post have been placed on the interactive map below (blue color). In addition, tips for shopping and eating/drinking in the city have been included. Then, each of the attractions will be detailed.

1. CHESTER CITY WALLS

The walls surround the limits of the medieval city and constitute the most complete city walls in Britain , with the complete circuit measuring almost 3 km long . It is possible to walk on the walls and pass through old medieval gates (Eastgate, Northgate, St Martin's Gate, Watergate, Bridgegate, Newgate, and Wolf Gate), and for a series of structures , such as the Phoenix Tower (also known as Charles Tower), the Goblin Tower, Northgate and Bonewaldesthorne's Tower leading up to the Water Tower, and Thimbleby's Tower. Check the map of the main points of the wall by accessing this link .

2. CHESTER CATHEDRAL

Chester Cathedral is one of the city's main and most interesting attractions. It was built in 1093 over a former Benedictine monastery, dedicated to Saint Werburgh, a former Anglo-Saxon princess. The Cathedral has a mixture of architectural styles (Norman, English Gothic, Perpendicular Gothic and Tudor), as it has been modified several times. The church was extensively renovated during the 19th century and the bell tower was added in the 20th century. I was enchanted by the mosaics with religious passages and huge, colorful stained glass windows. In addition to holding religious services, the cathedral is also used as a venue for concerts and exhibitions. The church is beautiful, rich in details, with beautiful colored stained glass windows and a series of adornments. One of the highlights of the church is the area of the cloisters and the inner garden where the beautiful statue “The Water of Life” by Stephen Broadbent is located.

Address: St Werburgh St, Chester CH1 2DY, England
Schedules: Monday to Saturday from 9 am to 6 pm / Sunday from 1 pm to 4 pm
Entrance: free

3. EASTGATE & EASTGATE CLOCK

Eastgate is one of ancient gates of the medieval walls of Chester which stands at the original entrance to the Roman fortress of Deva Victrix. The original gate was guarded by a wooden tower which was replaced by a stone tower in the 2nd century, and which was replaced again in the 14th century. The current gate dates from 1768 and consists of a structure of three sandstone arches that leads to a walkway that forms part of the city walls. In 1899, a clock was added to the top of the portal to celebrate Queen Victoria's Diamond Jubilee two years earlier. This clock came to be known as the Eastgate Clock and became one of the icons of the city, as it is considered the most photographed watch in England after the Big Ben .

Address: 41-45 Eastgate St, Chester CH1 1LE, England

> THE GROSVENOR MUSEUM

Founded in 1886, it is a museum of natural history and archeology. It takes its name from the family of the Dukes of Westminster, large landowners in the county where the city is located. Its collection includes archaeological items from the Roman period, paintings, musical instruments and a room set up to reflect the Victorian period.

Address: 27 Grosvenor St, Chester CH1 2DD, England
Schedules: Monday to Saturday from 10:30 am to 5 pm / Sunday from 1 pm to 4 pm
Entrance: free | £1 permission to photograph

> CHESHIRE MILITARY MUSEUM

It is a military museum that tells the story of four British Army regiments attached to the County of Cheshire from 1685: the Cheshire Regiment, the Cheshire Yeomanry, the 3rd Carabiniers, the 5th Royal Inniskilling Dragoon Guards and the Eaton Hall Officer Cadet School. . The museum is located in the former A block at Chester Castle.

Address: The Castle, Chester CH1 2DN, England
Schedules: daily from 10 am to 5 pm
Entrance: £4

> OLD CASTLE OF CHESTER

Old Chester Castle stands at one end of the old medieval walls, next to the River Dee. In the castle complex, there are the remaining parts of the medieval castle, together with the neoclassical buildings, built between 1788 and 1813. Parts of the neoclassical buildings are now used as courthouses and as a military museum. It is possible to visit the old medieval areas through guided tours.

Address: Grosvenor St, Chester CH1 2DN, England
Schedules: between april and october every Tuesday and third Friday of each month, guided tours only – more information here
Entrance: £7

5. OLD DEE BRIDGE

Crossing the River Dee, the Old Dee Bridge is the oldest in the city. A bridge at this location was first built in the Roman era and likely had stone pillars carrying a wooden carriageway. The current bridge was largely the result of a major reconstruction in 1387. It was built in red sandstone, has 7 arches, all with different dimensions from each other. A tower was built on the bridge between 1399 and 1407 as part of the city's defences, and it was demolished in 1781.

6. ROMAN GARDENS

To honor the city's past of Roman colonization, a beautiful garden built in Roman style was created. Built in 1949, it sits outside the city walls and runs from Pepper Street to the River Dee. The project was undertaken by Graham Webster, then curator of the Grosvenor Museum, and Charles Greenwood to display building fragments from the Roman legionary fortress of Deva, including pieces from some of the most important military buildings, the main baths and legionary headquarters, and general artifacts found. across the city. Most of the Roman building fragments were unearthed in the late 19th century during excavations at Chester.

Address: Pepper St, Chester CH1 1DQ, England
Schedules: daily from 9 am to 6 pm

7. ROMAN Amphitheater

Chester's Roman amphitheater was the largest in Britain. It was built in the 1st century AD and was used for entertainment and military training. The amphitheater was outside the Roman walls and was probably used both for entertainment and for the practice of troop maneuvers and weapons training. In fact, there were two stone-built amphitheaters on the site. The first included access to the upper seating steps via stairs in the back wall, as in Pompeii, and had a small shrine beside the north entrance. The second provided access via the vaulted stairs. The two buildings differed from each other and from all other British amphitheatres, underlining the importance of Chester Romana.

Address: Little St John St, Chester CH1 1RE, England
Schedules: during hours with sunlight

8. CHURCH OF SÃO JOHN THE BAPTIST

The Church of St. John the Baptist was founded in 689 AD During the Middle Ages, it was a cathedral. Built in sandstone, it is located outside the city walls and is considered the finest example of 12th-12th century church architecture in Cheshire. Outside the church, there are ruins of old chapels.

Address: Vicar's Ln, Chester CH1 1SN, England
Schedules: daily from 10 am to 4 pm
Entrance: free / there are free guided tours available on request

9. GROSVERNOR PARK

Grosvenor Park is a 20-acre public park considered one of the finest and most complete examples of Victorian parkland in North West England. The land, which formerly consisted of fields, was given to the city by Richard Grosvenor, 2nd Marquess of Westminster. The park has ornamental flower beds, pastures, trees and trails. A number of cultural and horticultural events, including events at the Summer Music Festival, are held in the park. One of the highlights of Grosvenor Park is a miniature railway, built in 1996 to commemorate the centenary of the Duke of Westminster Railway.

Address: 9 The Groves, Chester CH1 1SD, England
Schedules: daily from 7 am to 5 pm – may vary depending on time of year
Entrance: free

10. CHURCH OF SANTA VERBURGA (ST WERBURG)

This is a Roman Catholic church dedicated to Saint Verburga. The current church was built between 1873 and 1875 and was designed to have a large bell tower, but this was never built. It was built in yellow sandstone and has gray slate roofs. The architectural style is French Gothic with lancet windows. Inside the church, the arcades are carried on alternating round and octagonal pillars. There is also a large pulpit dating from 1895.

Address: Grosvenor Park Rd, Chester CH1 1QJ, England
Schedules: undisclosed

TOURS AND EXCURSIONS IN CHESTER

Where to eat / drink in chester.

For when you're hungry (or thirsty), here are several suggestions for places to eat and drink in Chester. The idea was to put varied options that cater to all pockets and tastes.

RESTAURANTS AND CAFES

Pizza Express (Pizza)
Cafe Rouge (French food)
La Fattoria (Italian food)
Las Iguanas (latin food)
Piccolino (Italian food)
Chef's Table (British food with vegan and vegetarian options)
Upstaris At The Grill (British food)
Bella Italia (Italian food)

Mezze (turkish food)
The Slowboat (Asian food)
Bollicini (Italian food)
Chez Jules (French food)
blue bell (slaps)
Joseph Benjamin (British food)
Carluccio's (Italian food)
Atina Kitchen (Mediterranean and British food)
Step In India (Indian food)
marmalade (coffee)
Off The Waffle (coffee)

BARS / PUBS / GASTROPUBS

The Coach House
Fiesta Havana
The Brewery Tap
Brewhouse & Kitchen

WHERE TO BUY IN CHESTER

If you want to take advantage of your visit to Chester to do some shopping, the city center is full of very nice shops. In addition, there are two major malls in the city:

Forum Shopping Center
Grosvenor Shopping Center

WHERE TO STAY IN CHESTER

For those looking to stay in the city longer, here are some well-located and well-reviewed lodging options in downtown Chester:

The Pied Bull (3 stars)
Holiday Inn Express, Chester Racecourse (3 stars)
Hallmark Inn Chester (Westminster) (3 stars)
Mill Hotel & Spa Destination (3 stars)

BOOK NOW your hotel and save up to 50% . Travelers readers are with a SUPER DISCOUNT ! And the best, with FREE CANCELLATION *!

*check the hotels with free cancellation on the website

Chester goat (4 stars)
Macdonald New Blossoms Hotel (4 stars)

HOW TO REACH CHESTER

To reach Chester from London, take the train at London Euston station bound for Chester station. The trip takes approx. 2 hours . There are direct travel options as well as changing trains. Pay close attention before buying your ticket. All the attractions mentioned in the post can be easily known by walking through the streets of the city. To buy train tickets, we recommend the website TrainLine . For more information, read the post “ Tips for traveling by train in England “.

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England: What to do in Chester - 1 day itinerary - Travelers

See more travel tips from London:

BRIGHTON (Londoners' favorite seaside town)
CAMBRIDGE (University City)
CANTERBURY (England's first Christian city)
LIVERPOOL (Beatles town)
MANCHESTER (industrial revolution city)
OXFORD (University City)
STRATFORD-UPON-AVON (Shakespeare's city)
WINCHESTER (capital of England before London)
WINDSOR (city of famous Windsor Castle)

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Chester Travel Guide (with essential tips, itinerary & map)

By: Author Tracy Collins

Posted on Last updated: August 10, 2023

Our Chester Travel Guide includes recommended places to visit and things to do, accommodation options, tips and more for one of England’s most beautiful cities. Everything you need to plan your visit and essential reading for any visitor to Chester!

Plan your visit to Chester

Chester is a walled city located in Cheshire in England’s north west close to the border with Wales .

This historic cathedral city was founded in 79AD during the time of the Roman Empire when a Roman fort was constructed on the site. It is one of the best-preserved walled cities in England (other walled cities include York , Durham , Carlisle and Canterbury ) and has many medieval buildings located in the city centre.

Chester is one of England’s most beautiful cities and can be easily reached by train in around 2 hours from London which makes it possible to plan a day trip to Chester.

If you are considering spending one day in Chester or even a weekend in Chester ( staycation vacation ) our Chester guide contains all the information you need to plan your trip.

What you will find in this complete Chester Travel Guide

Map of Chester

When is the best time of year to visit chester, how many days do you need in chester, what is the best way to explore chester, by train from london, things to do in chester, accommodation in chester, tickets, tours & attractions in chester, best day trips from chester england, books to read before visiting chester, enjoy your visit to chester.

Chester travel guide – Visiting Chester FAQ’s

Chester is a great destination to visit throughout the year. While temperatures drop over the winter months to an average high of only 10-degrees centigrade it is still a popular time to visit due to the city’s annual Christmas market.

The warmest time of year to visit Chester is during the summer months of June – August. These are on average also the driest months to visit Chester.

Chester is a popular destination for those seeking a short break although a day trip to Chester will enable you to see many of the city’s attractions.

Chester is a great destination to add to a train trip itinerary of the UK due to its excellent transport links from cities such as Liverpool , London, Manchester Cardiff and Birmingham.

Chester is also a great base from which to explore North Wales and even the Lake District . Tours such as this day trip to North Wales which includes the Snowdonia National Park are an ideal way to see the amazing landscape associated with this stunning part of Wales.

The historic centre of Chester is easy to explore on foot. In fact, the centre is actually closed to traffic between 10:30 am and 4:30 pm!

Alternatively consider buying tickets on the Chester hop-on-hop-off bus tour and enjoy unlimited hop-on hop-off for 24 or 48 hours.

What is the best way to travel to Chester from London?

For timetables and tickets, we recommend the trainline . Take the train to Chester for a short break or incorporate it into your UK train travel itinerary.

Tip – If this is your first time catching a train in the UK read our complete guide to UK train travel which includes all the information you need to know to make travelling around the UK by rail a relaxing and stress-free experience.

Distance from London: 263 km
Time taken by train: 2 hours
Leave from: London Euston

Click the links for more information about the best things to do in Chester (plus the best places to visit in Chester too.)

THINGS TO DO IN CHESTER

LIVERPOOL TRAVEL GUIDE / THINGS TO DO IN LIVERPOOL

NORTH WALES TRAVEL GUIDE

MANCHESTER TRAVEL GUIDE

LAKE DISTRICT TRAVEL GUIDE

BEST PLACES TO STAY IN CHESTER

Find more special stays in my Accommodation Guide for England.

This is our selection of the best tours and attractions available in Chester.

Private Walking Tour: Experience a private walking tour of Chester and gain a fantastic insight into its multi-layered history stretching from its Roman origins, through historical events such as the English Civil War to today’s bustling city. Highlights include the unique shopping arcade called The Rows, historical streets and the 16th-century cathedral as well as the beautiful riverside along the Dee.
Admission Ticket to Sick To Death in Chester: Sick to Death offers a unique attraction full of learning and discovery as well as activities and fun things to do. This is ideal for families (although some areas may be parent advisory.) Experience science and medicine in a unique way which may be gory at times but will also leave you asking questions.
Fascinating Walking Tours Of Roman Chester With An Authentic Roman Soldier – An award winning tour which consistently receives four and 5 star reviews on trip advisor. A unique quality experience of the lives of those that built Britain biggest Roman fort and amphitheatre.

I have handpicked the best tours available from Chester through Get Your Guide (we book most of our day tours and organised activities through Get Your Guide due to their great customer service and cancellation policy) and Viator (another tour company we have used during our travels).

Lake District Tour – This tour gives you a day in the Lake District National Park, leaving from Chester. It’s an ideal way to see the amazing landscapes associated with this stunning National Park and UNESCO World Heritage Site.
North Wales tour – This tour gives you a day in North Wales including the Snowdonia National Park, from Chester. It’s an ideal way to see the amazing landscape associated with this stunning part of Wales and the National Park.
Yorkshire Adventure – Sightseeing Day Trip Tour – Spend the day exploring the Yorkshire Moors and sights including the family home of the Bronte Sisters and the Ribblehead viaduct .

This guide will have provided inspiration plus practical information to help plan your visit to Chester. You will find more inspiration and ideas to help plan your travels around England in these travel guides:

Devon Travel Guide (including tips, itinerary + map)
Northumberland Travel Guide (including tips, itinerary + map)
Cornwall Travel Guide (including tips, itinerary + map)
Peak District Travel Guide
Oxford Travel Guide
Cotswolds Travel Guide (with Essential Tips, Itineraries & Map)
10 virtual tours of famous landmarks in the UK
12 Historical Places in England you simply can’t miss

Looking for more inspiration for your travels in England? Check out my England Travel Planning Guide which has lots of ideas, tips and resources to plan your itinerary.

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One day in chester.

This weekend, I visited the historical English city of Chester, to celebrate my friend’s birthday and go exploring. It’s amazing what you can see and do in just a day in Chester.

How long should you Spend in Chester?

How long should you spend in Chester? In my opinion, two days in Chester is absolutely perfect. If you can manage three or more days, this will allow you to book some local activities. If you only have one day in Chester, is it worth it? Absolutely!

Chester – Getting the and Away

Chester is extremely accessible by train. You can visit as a day trip from Liverpool (approximately 40 minutes) and from Manchester (approximately 1 hour 20 mins). If you are flying into the UK, you can fly to Manchester Airport or Liverpool John Lennon Airport.

Travelling from London to Chester is quite a distance. You would definitely need to stay over for at least one night, preferably two, if you plan to do this.

If you are travelling on the cheap and want to get the Megabus, be aware that it does not stop at Chester. However, you can get the Megabus to Liverpool (approximately £17.00 to £25.00 return from London depending on the time and day) and then get the train from Liverpool to Chester for £6.90 (return price in July 2016 booking in advance).I travelled by train from York and had to change in Manchester . My journey was just over 3 hours. Remember that if you are travelling around England by train, it is much cheaper to book in advance.

Arriving in Chester

When I arrived at Chester train station at 1pm, my friends Mark and Michelle were there to greet me. It was the first time Michelle had seen my ‘brace face’! (I’m wearing braces at 36!). With a train at approximately 1pm the very next day, it was time to see how much we could pack into 24 hours in Chester!

We paroused a pop up market near the station, with gluten free cakes and hand made chocolates, before heading to their flat to drop of my bag.

Then it was a beautiful 15 minute walk down the river to the centre, from their flat in Hoole. There was an unexpected ‘pirate ship’ on the canal side – a barge decked out with pirate paraphernalia, and a woman wearing a pirates hat shouting ‘What’s a pirate’s favourite letter of the alphabet? rrrrrrrrrrr!’ (Bad joke, I know, but not mine, so please don’t judge!)

Chester City Centre – Eastgate and Eastgate Clock

When you arrive in the centre of Chester, head straight to Eastgate and the Eastgate clock. The stunning Victorian clock stands prominently on the original Roman gate to the city. The clock was built in 1897 and unveiled to the public in 1899, on Queen Victoria’s 80th birthday. The Eastgate clock is the second most photographed clock in England after Big Ben ( London ).

There is an astounding melting pot of historical architecture in the centre of Chester. Look carefully for the contrasting Medieval, Tudor and Georgian styles.

Medieval Architecture of Chester

‘The Rows’ are medieval buildings built in the four main streets of Chester cross. Look to your left and right on Eastgate and Watergate Street, and you can’t miss the ornate wooden beamed black and white houses. There is some historical evidence that these house date back to the 13th Century.

We had a lovely lunch at the Watergate Deli, before heading to the Roman Amphitheatre.

Chester Roman Amphitheatre

The Roman Amphitheatre in Chester is the largest so far uncovered in Britain and dates back to the 1st Century AD, when the fort of Deva Victoria was founded (this fort is what later developed into the city of Chester). The amphitheatre would have been used for cock fighting, bull bating, wrestling and gladiator style combats.

Nearby the Amphitheatre, we went for a drink in ‘The Church’, which is, as it sounds, a Church converted into a bar. Seems rather sinful to drink in here, but I guess that’s all part of the fun! If you want to have a drink there (and you really should) I recommend that you go early on, especially on a weekend, as it can get very busy and full of hen parties and stag dos!

The Parish Church of St John the Baptist and Eastern Ruins

From the Roman Amphitheatre, we walked round past the Parish Church of St John the Baptist, to see the Eastern ruins of the Church. The ruins include part of the Norman Chancel, the 14th Century Lady Chapel and two medieval side chapels. After the Dissolution of the Monasteries under Henry VIII, the Eastern chapels and the transepts were abandoned, the parishioners built a new Eastern wall, leaving the ruined East end just outside the Church (not the one that serves alcohol this time!).

City of Chester Queens Park Suspension Bridge

The Queens Park suspension bridge allows pedestrians to cross the River Dee. It was constructed in 1923. From there, we walked along the riverside back to the highly sought after district of Hoole.

Drinks along the River Dee

We finished the night with a drink at the Old Harkers Arms on the Riverside, which, if you look at one side of the wall, fools you into thinking that it’s a library rather than a pub! Here, I celebrated 31 years of friendship with my bestie – wow, that makes me feel old! 😉

Breakfast at the Mad Hatters Tea Room

Calling all ‘Alice in Wonderland’ fans…the next morning we were up and out for a leisurely breakfast at The Mad Hatters Tea Room ! This place was full of character and inspiration from Lewis Carols novel. The walls are splattered with oversized playing cards, upside down tea pots hang from the ceiling and the odd Flamingo looks apprehensive about being used for a game of croquet!

The menu displayed food options with prices listed as 7 1/2 (£7.50) and 5 1/4 (£5.25) and we took away the most delicious cupcakes. It was so good, it deserved a blog in it’s own right (watch this space!).

Walking the City Walls of Chester

From there, we started to walk the city walls at Water Tower, which used to protect the medieval port of Chester.

Construction of the city walls started between 70-80AD as a wooden palisade, then they started to use sandstone around 100AD. The walls were extended after the Norman conquest (11th Century) to form the medieval walls of the city.

We walked round the Roman Walls of Chester, past the King Charles Tower. This was where King Charles I saw that they were losing the English Civil War, and fled.

The full circuit of the city walls is 1.8 miles (2.95 km). It can be hot in the summer and cold in the winter (take a raincoat), and the walk usually takes around 45 minutes. If you would like more information and a map of the city walls, follow this link .

One Day in Chester: Abbey Square

We descended the city walls by Chester Cathedral and walked through the Abbey Gateway. This 14th Century Gateway was the main entrance to the Abbey of St Werburgh, which is now the Cathedral. Directly facing the Abbey Gateway is Chester Town Hall.

Also on Abbey square, look out for Jayna the elephant. This bronze sculpture was a gift from Chester zoo to the people of Chester to celebrate the strong friendship between the Zoo and the City. Jana means ‘life’ in Hindi, and this symbolises the Zoo’s global role in conservation

If you’re lucky, you will see the vintage bus pull up near Abbey square (you can book tours online). The bus goes from the town hall Monday to Saturday and from Chester Cathedral on Sundays.

Chester Cathedral

Our fantastic weekend ended with some photography of Chester Cathedral . There are daily tours and tower tours in the Cathedral, as well as falconry displays and experiences that can be booked. Sadly, just one day in Chester didn’t allow time for this. If you have 2 or 3 days in Chester, these activities will certainly possible.

What to see and do in Chester

One day in Chester – Follow the above itinerary and you will not be disappointed.

48 Hours in Chester – In addition to the above, go inside the Cathedral, walk the full length of the walls and perhaps book some falconry. There will also be time for the vintage or open top bus tour.

3-5 Days in Chester – Animal lovers could incorporate Chester Zoo into their plans! You could also consider a visit to Chester Racecourse (the oldest racecourse in Great Britain). If you like Museums, explore the Grosvenor Museum (Natural History, Art and Local Silver) or the Cheshire Military Museum.

Other Recommended UK Cities

If you enjoyed this blog, and like historical UK cities, you might also like to read about Things to do in Oxford and York, UK .

Liverpool and Manchester are the to Northern Cities that you should visit (Liverpool in particular if you are a Beatles fan!)

London is, of course, not to be missed, but it can be expensive. Check out my blog on How to see London on a Budget .

Templeseeker

Hi, I'm Amy and I have over 25 years of travel experience. I love seeking out temples, Churches and other religious and historical buildings. My BA (Religions and Theology) and MA (South Asian Studies) were gained from the University of Manchester. When I'm not blogging about Europe, Asia and the Middle East you will find me at home in Liverpool with my husband and Blake the Patterdale terrier! Come and join me on my templeseeking journey around the world!

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8 Best Things to Do in Chester, England Or What to See in Chester in One Perfect Day

By Author Rossi Thomson

Posted on Last updated: 4th September 2022

Categories England , Lists

The city of Chester in England is 2,000 years old and stands out with its Roman ruins, medieval cathedral, the second most photographed clock in England (after Big Ben) and a lovely bunch of black and white Tudor houses.

All this history and yet, the city feels very modern and vibrant..

Chester is a pleasure to explore and makes for a great day trip from London which is about two hours away by train.

I have to admit that my visit to Chester this summer happened completely by chance.

The city had never been on my travel wishlist. Spending a day there though left me grinning like the proverbial Cheshire Cat. For, yes, Chester happens to be Cheshire’s county town.

It all happened like this:

On a grey August day during our yearly visit to England this summer, I was busy looking at the map musing over the stopovers for our road trip to North Wales . This is when the name of Chester jumped out at me. We were to drive past it right before crossing from England into Wales. Spontaneously, a decision was made to stop at Chester for a couple of hours at most.

I didn’t even do a search for sights or other things of interest that we could potentially do there. The city’s name sounded really cool, it had a certain ring to it and, I thought, even if we didn’t like it that much, we could simply jump back in the car and continue to the island of Anglesey – our final destination for that day.

I am happy to report that Chester turned out to be an amazing destination all in itself.

The time that we had originally planned to spend there quickly tripled in length. We filled it with (among many other things):

gawking at Chester’s stunning black-and-white Tudor houses,
wandering in its cavernous cathedral,
window shopping in the city’s unique Rows,
taking selfies with Chester’s Eastgate Clock (which happens to be the second most photographed clock in the UK after Big Ben!);
and even meeting Chester’s town crier which turned out to be the highlight of our day.

So, just in case you are looking for ideas for a great day out in England, may I wholeheartedly recommend Chester?! It’s an exciting, multilayered city built on the foundations of several historical periods to create something new and quite unique.

You can easily get to Chester not only from London but also from Liverpool, Manchester, Birmingham, and Leeds, to mention but a few of the many possible departure points.

If you are wondering what to do once in Chester, England, fear not! There are many things to get up to, see, and enjoy there. And to make it easy for you, I have prepared this very handy shortlist giving you first-hand tried and tested tips and details about the best sights in Chester to enjoy in one perfect day.

Let’s start! Here they are:

1. Chester Cathedral

A thousand years old, Chester Cathedral is an unmissable sight in the city of Chester. If you don’t have time to do anything else there, head straight to the cathedral for a substantial introduction to the medieval and modern history of Chester in archaeological, religious, and art terms.

Plus, Chester Cathedral – which is dedicated to Christ and the Blessed Virgin Mary – is a centre of musical excellence and has the longest-serving volunteer choir in England. You can listen to it six days a week during the choral evensong.

If you are spending a whole day in Chester, then put at least an hour (even better two) aside to spend in and around Chester Cathedral taking in its stunning architecture, beautiful gardens and myriad of curious details that make it such an unmissable sight.

For example, did you know that the cathedral’s nave was started in 1360 but it took over 130 years to build? The reason was the lack of workmen as the local population had been decimated by the Black Death.

Chester Cathedral is free to visit. While there, I was stunned to read that keeping the cathedral open for the public costs £5,500 per day! As such donations are much appreciated.

Complimentary guided tours of the Cathedral are held Monday to Saturday. Plus, you can take a Height Tour (paid for) to the top of the cathedral’s central tower. At a height of 125 feet (just over 38 metres), you will see both England and Wales.

What I particularly loved seeing in Chester Cathedral was its Victorian mosaics. Made between 1883 and 1886, they depict four Old Testament characters.

These huge mosaic panels reminded me of the stunning mosaics in Ravenna and at St. Mark’s Basilica in Venice, although, of course, they all are very different in style.

Some interesting spots and sights to see inside and outside Chester Cathedral are:

Consistory Court (c.1590) – the most complete example of a church court in England;
Chester Imp – a carving of the devil in chains to scare the evil spirits away;
Medieval Quire Stalls (1380) – made of oak, they represent the finest medieval woodcarving in England;
Lego model of Chester Cathedral – made of 350,000 Lego bricks. Plus, during our visit, huge sea creatures recreated with Lego bricks were displayed in the cathedral. Called ‘The Deep’ the exhibition highlighted the diversity of ocean life and the environmental threats it faces. It was quite unusual, to say the least, to see the Lego models positioned in the large medieval body of the cathedral. Great contrast of colours, shapes, and aesthetics!

2. Chester’s Tudor and Mock Tudor Buildings

The first thing that will grab your imagination when you find yourself in Chester are the city’s black and white Tudor buildings. There is an abundance of these stunning timber-framed old houses. You will feel like you have found yourself in an English historical tale.

Take your time walking up and down Chester’s central streets and just feast your eyes on the shapes and decorations of its Tudor buildings. Watergate Street, Eastgate Street, Northgate Street, St. Werburgh Street and Bridge Street are particularly rich in timber-framed jettied houses but feel free to stray further afield for more black and white gems in the city’s historic centre.

You will soon notice that while some of these Tudor buildings look rather flash and gleaming, others seem to be a bit more battered by the hands of time. Thus the black colour of their timber-framing has paled under the elements and their walls and floors look quite warped.

This is because Chester has both original Tudor buildings built as early as 1603 and mock Tudor buildings erected in the second half of the 19th century during the Tudor Revival in English architecture. It’s interesting to note that the Tudor Revival incorporated not only original Tudor elements but also several medieval ones. As a result, the 19th-century mock Tudor buildings look even more stunning than the original Tudor ones.

Original or mock, the Tudor buildings in Chester are simply beautiful. Each comes with its own decorative details which make you want to stand there for hours trying to spot and decipher them all.

I particularly loved seeing the Art Gallery building on Bridge Street with its Biblical scenes carved out of black wood on blue background.

Some of the most notable Tudor and mock Tudor buildings to see around Chester are: Stanley Palace on Watergate Street, the Tudor House on Lower Bridge Street, as well as the iconic building known as 1 Bridge Street.

Many of Chester’s Tudor and mock Tudor buildings nowadays are used as shops and cafes so you can enjoy some retail therapy or a cup of coffee surrounded by stunning architecture.

3. Chester’s Rows

700 years old, Chester’s Rows are a feature unique to this multilayered city where different cultures and building practices existed in close succession to one another.

The Rows are long galleries that run through several buildings in the historic centre of Chester. Unlike galleries (or porticoes) in Italian cities, for example, though, Chester’s Rows are on the first floor of the buildings. It may be difficult to visualise, so let me use some photos here.

Basically, you have large buildings which are stuck next to one another. On their ground floors, there are shops, bars, and eateries. The unusual thing is that every now and then there is an outside flight of steps which allows you to go from the ground up to the first floor of the buildings. This first floor is like a large terrace giving you a lovely view of the street below.

All these terraces are connected with a long walkway – it’s like a street inside the buildings. At this level, there are shops, cafes, and bars, too. Plus there are also doors to the upper residential floors.

This way, you can walk from one end of the street to the other completely ensconced inside the long line of buildings. You can also shop on two levels or sit to have a nice cup of coffee with a great view of the street hubbub below.

Chester’s Rows are a great sight to explore. They are also unique to the city and can be seen on all four main streets of Chester. Traversing the walkways makes you feel close to the city and its secrets. It’s quite magical, really.

While the origin of the Rows is not precisely established, there are several theories. One is that the Rows were built on the rubble left over from the Roman period. Another is that due to a devastating fire in the 13th century, the houses had to be rebuilt with stone undercrofts which gave rise to the two-storey design of the local shops.

4. Eastgate Clock

Eastgate Clock is a very elegant and eye-catching timepiece which adorns the three-arched 18th-century gateway over Chester’s central Eastgate Street.

Shaped like a turret, this colourful clock was placed there in 1899 to commemorate Queen Victoria’s Diamond Jubilee which had been celebrated two years prior to that.

The locals claim that Eastgate Clock is the second most photographed clock in the UK. It’s topped only by London’s Big Ben. I happily contributed to Eastgate Clock’s photo fame by snapping it from several different angles. It posed like a true star!

It’s curious to point that Eastgate Clock stands on the spot where the original gateway into the Roman town of Deva Victrix (Chester’s Roman name) had once stood. As such, the clock serves as a nice link between the past and the present, reminding us all that time flies but memories stay with us.

There are steps that lead all the way to the top of the gateway on which the clock stands. From there you can enjoy lovely views over Chester’s historical centre and then walk on the Roman walls which surround the city to this day.

5. Chester’s Town Crier at Chester Cross

Who would have thought that our very best experience in Chester would be meeting the town crier?!

Traditionally, a town crier was the person with a loud and clear voice who was employed to make public announcements in the streets or the marketplace of a town. In other words, he was like a walking newspaper or an old-fashioned podcast, if you like, telling people of yore what were the news of the day. Like, who was about to be beheaded for stealing a hen or how much new tax the king was levying on his subordinates. You get the drift!

And then, obviously, newspapers, radio, TV, and, of course, the internet sprung on us leaving town criers jobless Europe-wide. Thus, the profession fell into oblivion like so many other honest professions of the past like scribes, for example, or hangmen, if you wish.

Well, guess what! Chester has revived the lovely town crier’s tradition and claims to be the only place in Britain with regular midday proclamations at a fixed day and time (Tuesday to Saturday, June to August). We came across one of the two town criers of Chester at Chester Cross. Dressed in historical garb, he was getting ready for his proclamation and soon a large crowd of tourists and other curious people had gathered around him.

Chester’s town crier – David Mitchell – put on a real show for all of us. It was fun, it was entertaining, there was lots of historical information weaved in, too. Above all, David was a real-life embodiment of English humour – dry, sarcastic, a bit self-deprecating and with lots of play-on-words. He got us to cheer, laugh, and generally made us feel very welcome to Chester.

Curiously enough, Chester’s other town crier – Julie Mitchell (who is also a historical costume maker among many other things) – happens to be David’s wife. We didn’t have a chance to see her perform her town crier’s duties on the day we were in Chester. Maybe next time!

Click here to find out when you can see the Chester’s Town Criers perform. On the right day and at the right time, you will find him or her at Chester Cross – the intersection of the former main Roman roads, presently Chester’s main streets. A cross – known as Chester High Cross – has been standing at this spot since the 14th century. The current one was placed there in 1476 but then it got badly damaged in the following centuries before being restored a few decades ago.

6. Chester’s Roman Heritage

Chester is a city founded in 79 AD by the Romans. Vestiges of their presence here survive even though almost 2,000 years have passed. The Roman castrum (town and fortress) established at this place was called Deva Victrix. Chester’s four main streets – Eastgate, Northgate, Watergate, and Bridgegate – follow exactly the main roads that were built by the Romans.

In addition, don’t miss the following sights in Chester in order to feel the Roman spirit of centuries long past:

Roman Walls – these are the most complete Roman city walls preserved in England. You can walk on them in order to see the city of Chester from above and gain a better understanding of its history and heritage – from its Roman days to our present times.
Roman Amphitheatre – the largest Roman amphitheatre in England. In comparison with the one in Verona , Italy, for example, not much has survived the test of times. Still, you can see the outline of the amphitheatre and sit where once 8,000 to 10,000 Roman soldiers and civilians used to sit to enjoy the spectacles. Only the northern half of Chester’s Roman Amphitheatre is uncovered. The rest remains underneath nearby buildings.
Roman Gardens – for more Roman remains and artifacts head to the charming Roman Gardens which run parallel to the city walls down to the River Dee.
Grosvenor Museum’s Roman collection – immerse yourself in Roman history in the Roman archaeology collection of Chester’s unmissable Grosvenor Museum.
Roman Tours – alternatively, you can join a tour of Chester led by a Roman soldier who also happens to be a skilled guide. Ask at the local Visitors’ Centre about times and prices.

7. Chester’s Landmarks

Beyond its Roman heritage and Tudor black-and-white buildings, Chester has many more sights which are worth it of your time. Here is a handy shortlist to get you started:

Town Hall – Built in the Gothic Revival style, Chester’s Town Hall stands out with its 160-foot (almost 49 metres) tall spire. You will find it right opposite the main entrance of Chester Cathedral. Chester’s Visitors’ Centre is on the ground floor of the Town Hall. Head there if you need any information about the city and its sights and/or if you want to book tickets for tours.
Chester Castle – It looked stunning but this mighty castle was closed for repair works on the day we made it to Chester. Our loss! The castle stands on a small hill overlooking the River Dee. Next to it are some impressive Neoclassical buildings which serve as Chester’s Town Court and Military Museum. Nearby you will also find the Roodee (see next bullet point).
Chester Racecourse, known as the Roodee – officially, this is the oldest racecourse still in use in England. It stands at a place which used to be a bustling Roman port (before the River Dee silted). Apparently, you can watch the races for free from the adjacent Roman walls. There were no races at the time we passed by the Roodee so we admired its green expanse and tried to imagine what it must have looked like many centuries ago when boats instead of horses had the run of the land.
Chester Market – a large covered hall with dozens of stalls. From books and vinyl to fish, meat, spices, and nuts, the market is a great place to get some locally produced food. Chester Market was our first experience in the city. You will find it inside the centrally located Forum Shopping Centre where we parked our rental car during our exploration of Chester.

8. Chester’s Grosvenor Buildings

Everywhere you go in Chester, you will keep coming across one name – Grosvenor!

From Chester’s posh shopping centre called the Grosvenor to the local fab museum called the same, the name of Grosvenor is all over this beautiful English city.

I was curious to find out why and it turns out that all the Grosvenors in town are named after the Duke of Westminster whose family name is Grosvenor. The Grosvenor is an English aristocratic landowning family. Many of their properties are in Chester where in the 19th century many iconic for the city buildings were erected thanks to the investments of the Grosvenor Family. Among them are:

Grosvenor Museum – a very well-organised museum with a rich collection split into several thematic sections – from Chester’s Roman past to the city’s silver heritage and art. It’s free to visit (a small donation of £3.00 is appreciated) and there is lots to see and admire there, so put some time aside to enjoy it fully.
Grosvenor Bridge – this was the longest single-span stone arch bridge in the world when it was opened by Princess Victoria (later Queen Victoria) in 1832.
Grosvenor Shopping Centre – a very nice place to indulge in a spot of retail therapy while in Chester.
Grosvenor Club and North and South Wales Bank – a historical building nowadays occupied by the HSBC Bank. You will find it next to Eastgate Clock. I particularly loved the shields which decorate its facade. The arms are of the twelve former shires of Wales.
Grosvenor Park – a fine Victorian park with a miniature railway.

What I Loved the Most about Chester, England

I had a great time in the city of Chester in England.

The city felt very vibrant, clean, and friendly. It could be because we really lucked out with the weather. It was a gorgeous sunny day, one of those that make historical English buildings really stand out against the blue sky and Chester was taking full advantage of this to showcase its best sights. Plus, there were lots of people on the streets, the coffee shops and the eateries were bustling and street musicians were singing and playing their heart out in the historical city centre.

I found Chester’s central part very easy to orientate myself in and to explore. The main streets were wide and filled with light and all sights we managed to squeeze in were very close to one another thus making the city very walkable even with a small child.

What I loved the most about Chester were the original Tudor buildings and their mock counterparts. They were stunning to look at and I couldn’t help it but wonder how people – so many centuries ago – had managed to manipulate wood in so many swirly intricate designs. What tools and the wood from which trees did they use?! I would definitely love to learn more about it.

Chester is a city rich in details and everywhere you look try to spot as many beautiful details as you can. From floral patterns…

and ladies’ breasts on mock Tudor buildings…

to stone demons and scribes on Chester Cathedral…

the more you look, the more curious images you will come across. They definitely had my imagination fired and, if I had had the time, I would have spent hours just chasing them up and down Chester’s streets to take endless photos of them.

What We Missed in Chester, England

It was amazing that we managed to see so much of Chester in such a short amount of time, considering that (and as I mentioned above) I didn’t do any research in advance. The city is very easy to walk around and navigate, organically coming across its most important sights as you take your time to explore its walled central part.

Had we had more time though, I wish we could have seen and done the following activities, too:

River Cruise – the picturesque River Dee flows through Chester and it is inextricably linked to the city’s ancient past. River cruises run regularly taking you on a lovely journey past important historical buildings and sights. We couldn’t squeeze a river cruise in our day in Chester but it would have been nice to have the river angle when getting to know this beautiful city in England up close and personal.
The Ice Cream Farm – a free to enter kids’ amusement park which boasts the world’s largest ice cream shop where 50 different flavours of ice cream are sold. It sounds quite exciting, especially, if you travel with a child. In any case, this place is about half an hour away by car from Chester Cathedral so we wouldn’t have had time for it no matter what but it’s something I would like to see if I am ever in that area again.
Chester Zoo – this happens to be the most visited zoo in the UK and the third best zoo in the world. There are 27,000 animals there and the zoo spreads over 125 acres. They say you need a whole day to see and explore it all, so plan accordingly.

In Conclusion

Chester is an exciting city to visit in the county of Cheshire in England.

With a rich multilayered history starting when Britannia was a Roman province, nowadays Chester is a great destination for a day trip from many larger English cities as well as from the British capital London.

Chester is very walkable and its many sights and landmarks are close to one another making it easy to see lots in a short amount of time with or without kids in tow. Don’t miss the 1,000-years old Chester Cathedral, the Roman walls, the Grosvenor Museum and the many Tudor and mock Tudor black and white buildings which make a visit to Chester so unique and memorable.

The above blog post gives you detailed first-hand tried and tested information about the best places to see and experience in Chester, England. Logically organised, this list of the eight best things to do in Chester will give you plenty of ideas about how to spend one perfect day there.

Enjoy spending a day exploring the sights of Chester, England!

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21 Best things to do in Chester, England

David Angel
England , United Kingdom

About the author: David Angel is a British photographer, writer and historian with 30+years experience exploring Europe. His work regularly appears in global media including the BBC, Condé Nast Traveler, and The Guardian.

Chester is one of the best cities to visit in England, indeed Great Britain. It’s one of the most captivating cities in the country, with a wealth of medieval (and medieval-inspired) architecture.

There’s nowhere else in the world like the Chester Rows, a warren of centuries-old walkways among the black-and-white half-timbered houses. You can shop, stop at cafes and pubs or simply wander back into the mists of time.

You can also walk its ancient city walls or if you’re travelling with kids it has one of the best zoos in Europe on the edge of town.

My guide to the best things to do in Chester covers all options. I show you all the historic sites, from Roman to medieval to Victorian, some of the best places to stay and eat, and Chester Zoo. I also suggest the best places to go near Chester, including across the border in North Wales and Liverpool. Enjoy!

Table of Contents

Why Visit Chester

image of chester orws on bridge street chester england uk

Chester is one of the most beautiful cities in England, with a wealth of medieval architecture and half-timbered houses around the city.

It has one of the finest cathedrals in northern England, with parts of the church around a thousand years old.

Chester is renowned for its Rows, a series of unique covered walkways with shops and cafes above street level.

It’s also rich in Roman history, and was the largest city in this part of Britain when the Romans conquered it 2,000 years ago.

There are also plenty of fun things to do in Chester with kids, with the excellent Chester Zoo on the outskirts of the city, and the Deva Roman Experience for those with an interest in history.

image of chester clock eastgate chester engalnd uk

Chester is on the border with North Wales, and an excellent base for venturing into this wonderful part of the world. The gorgeous Snowdonia National Park and some of the great Castles of North Wales are little more than an hour away, as are some of the best beaches in North Wales.

Chester is also very close to Liverpool or Manchester, within easy reach by train, bus or car.

Things To Do In Chester

Chester cathedral .

Chester Cathedral is one of the best cathedrals in the North of England. It was originally the Abbey of St Werburgh – the patron saint of the church – which was unusually spared destruction in the aftermath of King Henry VIII’s Dissolution of the Monasteries. It has been a Cathedral since 1541, but all the surrounding monastic buildings, including the cloister and refectory have survived.

The dark red sandstone cathedral was built over 500 years, beginning with the foundation of the Abey in 1093. Some arches from this Romanesque period survive in the north transept, and much of the body of the church – including the Gothic chancel and Lady Chapel – were completed in the 14 th century.

image of greene memorial chester cathedral england uk

Further work was completed in the 16 th century, including the intricate great west window, a superb example of the English Perpendicular style. The Victorians also left their traces in their restorations, and there are also some 20 th century additions including the modern west window.

While visiting the Cathedral, take time to explore the monastic buildings, particularly the lovely cloister garden, and its fine Water of Life sculpture. The Refectory café is also a spectacular setting for an afternoon coffee and slice of cake.

Chester Architecture

image of black and white house in chester england uk

Chester’s architecture is outstanding, one of the finest of any city in England. It’s easily one of the most beautiful cities in England, its central streets lined with black-and-white half-timbered houses. The oldest buildings are from the 13 th century, and many date from the late 16 th and 17 th centuries.

Many were also added 200 years later by the Victorians. You can tell some of their buildings apart from their medieval counterparts by the inscriptions on the facades, and some of the painted figures are also a bit of a giveaway.

Explore the unique Chester Rows

image of interior of one of the chester rows england uk

Wandering the famous Chester Rows is one of our favourite things to do in Chester city centre. They are the main reason many people visit Chester, and are unique in Europe.

image of waterstones shop in the rows chester england uk

The rows are a series of covered passageways one storey above ground level, running along four streets in the centre of Chester. Shop, café or restaurant premises occupy the buildings at street level, and there are walkways above, accessed via flights of steps at intervals. At this level there are more shops and businesses – some of which are connected to the premises on the ground floor, and some are entirely separate.

The shops in these walkways are set back a few metres from the street. The passageways are covered, with most of the buildings between two and four storeys higher. These passageways – along Eastgate, Northgate, Watergate and Bridge Streets – are the Chester Rows.

Nobody knows how the Chester Rows came into being. There are various theories. One is that they were built on the rubble of ruined Roman buildings; writer George Borrow (best-known for his travelogue Wild Wales ) suggested that they were built so shopkeepers could defend their wares from raiding Welsh robbers!

Ultimately this is all guesswork. We do know that the Rows had come into being by the late 13 th century but that the walkways we see today are later, most likely from the 17 th to 19 th centuries. They are a fantastic warren of passages, with a vast range of shops, many of which are small and independent. There are also many great cafes and a few 17 th- century pubs to be discovered. A wonderful way to spend a day in Chester.

Take a walk under the ornate late Victorian Eastgate Clock

image of eastgate clock chester england uk

The famous Eastgate Clock stands on the site of the main Roman gateway to the city of Deva Victrix. It is frequently said to be the second most photographed clock in England after Big Ben in London. I certainly can’t think of one to rival it, and it’s undoubtedly one of the most famous landmarks in England .

image of the chester clock eastgate chester england uk

The ornate clock was built on the 18 th century sandstone bridge which forms part of the city walls of Chester. It was completed in 1899 to commemorate the Golden Jubilee (60 years) of Queen Victoria’s reign two years earlier. You can walk below it at street level, or climb the stairs and walk right underneath the clock. It’s only a minute’s walk from a beautiful view of Chester Cathedral.

Enjoy the circuit of Chester City Walls

The city walls of Chester are the most complete circuit of ancient town walls in the UK. They were begun by the Romans to fortify the garrison town of Deva Victrix, and were built in the 1 st and 2 nd centuries AD. They should be on anyone’s Chester itinerary as they are such an unusual way to see the city. And you can comfortably complete the circuit in a couple of hours or so.

Some original sections of the walls remain, but they didn’t comprise a complete circuit – this was probably finished the best part of a thousand years later after the Norman Conquest.

The walls – or at least sections of them – fulfilled a defensive function as late as the English Civil War (1642 to 1647). However, after this they gradually became more appreciated as somewhere to visit and explore.

You can almost walk the complete circuit of Chester Walls, save for sections currently being restored. I particularly recommend the section between Chester Cathedral and the River Dee, which offers superb views over the streets and rooftops of Chester.

Seek out a few of the many medieval Chester pubs

image of ye olde kings head pub chester england uk

One of my favourite Chester things to do is exploring some of Chester’s centuries-old pubs. Many of them are in 17 th -century half-timbered buildings around the city centre.

It’s amazing how many of them have survived, especially given the recent economic downturn, but most street corners seem to have one. The buildings are wonderfully evocative, intimate watering holes serving superb beer.

One of my favourites is Ye Olde King’s Head, near the bottom of Bridge Street and the river, and I also recommend Ye Olde Boot Inn (there are quite a few Ye Oldes around the city!) upstairs in The Rows on Eastgate Street.

Explore Roman Chester

image of via decumana roman street sign chester england uk

Deva – also known as Deva Victrix – was one of the most important Roman towns in Britain. It was a major garrison town in a strategically important location, close to routes to Eboracum (later York), North Wales and Ireland.

There are substantial Roman remains around Chester, including parts of some sections of the city walls.

image of chester roman amphitheatre england uk

The most notable Roman sites in Chester include the substantial amphitheatre, the nearby Roman Garden and the adjacent baths (thermae).

The Roodee racecourse (see below) served as the Romans’ port, and marks on the city walls there where Roman ships once moored are still visible.

Take a boat trip on the River Dee

image of boats on the river dee in chester

The River Dee around Chester is gorgeous, and a great way to see it is on a short river cruise. Chester boat tours depart from The Groves, on the right bank (north side) of the river, near the Old Dee Bridge.

Shorter cruises run beyond the suspension bridge upstream to the Earl’s Eye meadow on the outskirts of the city. Longer cruises (2 hours) run through the Duke of Westminster’s estate nearby, running as far as the elegant Aldford iron bridge. One of the best things to do around Chester if you’re in the area for a few days.

Lunch at Chester Market

image of the dining area in chester market england uk

Chester Market – just behind the City Hall and Storyhouse (see below) – is a great place to spend an hour or two. I met up there with some old friends from North Wales for a few hours, and the place was buzzing the whole time.

There are various food stalls, cafes and eateries around the central seating (and eating) area. It’s open all day and into the evening. And if you’re driving into the city, one of the main car parks is next door.

Visit the Art Deco Storyhouse, One Of The Best Arts Centres in the North of England

image of storyhouse centre chester england uk

The Storyhouse is a fantastic arts centre in an Art Deco cinema a two-minute walk from Chester Cathedral.

It comprises an excellent library (with a superb children’s section), a restaurant, theatres and an independent cinema. We spent most of our time in the kids’ library with Our Little Man, and we loved the innovative reading spaces created for them.

We were also impressed by the inclusivity of the place, including the message on the floor inside one of the entrances. It read, ’Come Inside, keep war, you’re safe now.’ Very touching. I also liked the numerous Benjamin Zephaniah (a British poet) quotes around the walls

Treat the kids to a day out at Chester Zoo

Image of a mother and baby Sumatran orangutans

Chester Zoo is the largest zoo in the UK, with an astonishing collection of animals from around the world. I visited a few times on day trips from North Wales during childhood holidays, and again with Faye more recently.

The array of animals is staggering. Our favourite Chester Zoo experience was a face-to-face encounter with a beautiful female orangutan who took a great interest in our camera and the images in the back of it.

Other stars of the show include the giraffes, black rhinos, Asian elephants and the elusive aye-aye, a fascinating nocturnal lemur from Madagascar.

The Zoo is easily one of the best things to do in Chester with kids, but I suggest trying to pick a dry day if you do visit. Entry for a family of four works out at over £100 without a donation, and from experience it’s far better without the rain!

Take a walk over the Old Dee Bridge

The Old Dee Bridge is one of the most picturesque places to visit in Chester. It’s on the original site of the first crossing of the river in the city, built by the Romans.

The present structure – a series of seven red sandstone pointed arches – dates from the 14 th century. The construction was ordered by Edward, the Black Prince, and a local levy was introduced to cover the costs of its upkeep.

It’s a quirky bridge, with seven arches of irregular length. You can cross the Bridge on foot or by car, but if you’re driving, you may have to wait. The bridge is narrow, only wide enough for one lane of traffic. So you may be stuck waiting behind a red light for a couple of minutes before you can cross. Do what I did and walk!

Discover the only intact in situ Roman Shrine in Britain at Handbridge

image of the roman shrine of minerva chester england uk

The ancient Roman shrine of Minerva isn’t one of the most obvious things to see in Chester. But if you head as far south as the Old Dee Bridge it’s only a few more minutes’ walk to this remarkable ancient survival in the park in Handbridge, just across the river.

The entrance to the park, known as Edgar’s Field, is just beyond The Ship Inn as you walk south from the Old Dee Bridge. It’s around 150 metres from the entrance, beyond the playground, and just to the left of the main pathway.

It consists of a stone carving of Minerva, the Roman goddess of war. The figure is carved onto the sandstone rock face, which is believed to have been part of a small quarry. As you’ll see, the carving is quite worn, and partly protected by a hood framing it.

Delve further into Chester History at the Grosvenor Museum

image of front of grosvenor museum chester

The Grosvenor Museum is Chester’s local museum, covering the city and Cheshire’s history. There is a great section on the Romans, and I also recommend the Period House, a series of rooms decorated and fitted out in the styles of different eras from the 16 th to early 19 th centuries.

Travel 900 years back in time to Chester Castle

image of chester castle cheshire england uk

Chester Castle was founded a few years after the Norman Conquest in 1070, and later expanded and rebuilt in the 12 th century. Towards the end of the 13 th century it served as King Edward I’s headquarters for his invasion and occupation of North Wales. The outer bailey – pictured above – was added around this time.

You enter through the Neoclassical gateway, and follow the signs right to the Castle. The 12 th -century Agricola Tower has a fine chapel (St Mary de Castro) with rare 13 th -century wall paintings.

It’s one of the most intriguing Chester tourist attractions, but opening hours can be limited, especially in the off-season.

Indulge in afternoon tea at Katie’s Tea Rooms

image of katies tea rooms chester engfland uk

Your visit to olde worlde Chester wouldn’t be complete without a little traditional indulgence. The best place we found was Katie’s Tea Rooms on Watergate Street, a couple of minutes’ walk from Chester Cross.

They do the classic English afternoon tea with finger sandwiches, scones and cake, and also English breakfast, sandwiches and light meals.

Watch horse racing at the Roodee, the oldest racecourse in the world still in operation

I confess that we are not followers of horse racing. However, those of you who are may well be intrigued by the prospect of visiting Chester Racecourse. It is believed to have been founded in 1539, and is recognised as the oldest racecourse in the world which is still in use.

Also known as the Roodee, the racecourse is relatively small, at just over a mile in length. It’s located on a bend of the River Dee, with a section of the Chester City Walls also running along part of it.

Places To Visit Near Chester

Chester is only a mile or two from the Welsh border, and has its own Welsh name, Caer. It’s an ideal base for day trips to North Wales, whether you’re heading for the coast, Anglesey, the mountains of Snowdonia or the World Heritage Castles in North Wales. Here are a few top suggestions for day trips from Chester.

Llangollen

The country town of Llangollen is thirty miles or so up the Dee Valley from Chester, in the heart of an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty.

Image of Dinas Bran Castle near Llangollen Wales UK

There are enough things to do in Llangollen to warrant a couple of days’ stay, from the haunting ruins of Dinas Bran Castle and Valle Crucis Abbey to Plas Newydd, the home of the famous Ladies of Llangollen in the late 18 th century.

Pontcysyllte Aqueduct

This remarkable bridge carries the Llangollen Canal 36 metres (138 feet) above the Dee Valley a few miles downstream from Llangollen. It’s one of the greatest landmarks in Wales , and one of four UNESCO World Heritage Sites in the country, completed in the early 19 th century by master engineer Thomas Telford.

Image of Pontcysyllte Aqueduct above the River Dee in Wales

You can walk across the Aqueduct, or take a trip in a horse-drawn narrowboat. But you’ll need a head for heights as one side is open to the elements with no railings.

It’s in the county of Wrexham, one of Cheshire’s Welsh cross-border neighbours.

Snowdonia National Park

Image of Tryfan mountain in Snowdonia Wales

Also known by its Welsh name Eryri, this spectacular mountain range is one of the most beautiful landscapes in Wales and the UK. This tour from Chester takes you to the stunning Llyn Ogwen lake below the mighty Tryfan peak, also calling at the popular village of Betws-y-Coed and the seaside town of Llandudno.

Another tour from Chester follows a different route, taking you into the heart of Snowdonia, while also stopping at the gorgeous riverside town of Conwy , home to one of the finest Castles in North Wales .

Clwydian Range

The Clwydian Hills are part of the same Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty as the Dee Valley around Llangollen. The long-distance Offa’s Dyke Path follows the upper ridge of this series of hills, which command superb views over the patchwork of fields of the Vale of Clwyd below.

Beyond these, on a clear day, you’ll be treated to the breathtaking sight of the distant peaks of Snowdonia. The walk between the hillforts of Moel Famau and Moel Arthur offers some of the best views.

See Also : 27 of the Best Places To Visit In North East Wales

Where To Stay In Chester

There are plenty of great hotels in Chester, both in the city centre and in the countryside around the city.

The Chester Grosvenor is the best luxury option in the city, and the location is as central as you can get. It’s within a few metres of the Eastgate Clock, with the Rows and Cathedral both a couple of minutes’ walk away.

Hotel Indigo is another fabulous Chester hotel, only five minutes’ walk away from the main Chester sights. It’s also right next to beautiful Grosvenor Park and a short stroll from the River Dee and city walls.

The Mill Hotel Chester is a great choice between the station and city centre, housed in a red brick converted mill next to the Shropshire Union Canal. The Queen at Chester Hotel BW is a gorgeous grand hotel across the street from the train station, ideal if you’re travelling by public transport.

There are also several options in the villages around Chester. I once stayed at the splendid Rossett Hall Hotel, a fine Georgian country house with gardens a short drive just across the border in Wales.

How To Get To Chester

The city of Chester is easy to reach from wherever you’re travelling.

The closest international airports are Manchester and Liverpool, both of which are around an hour and a half away by public transport. Each journey entails a change of train or bus en route.

Chester is well connected by rail and is on the main line between North and South Wales (which runs along the English side of the border with Wales. There are direct trains from Liverpool Lime Street (47 minutes) and Manchester Piccadilly (1 hour 10 minutes and upwards). If you’re travelling from Ireland, the direct train from Holyhead Port to Chester takes between 1 hour 36 minutes and 2 hours.

If you’re travelling from London to Chester by train, direct services from London Euston take as little as two hours.

If you’re driving, Chester is very close to the A55 North Wales Expressway, so has great connections to the west. The M53 connects Chester with Liverpool via the Wirral peninsula, and the M56 links Chester with Manchester.

Things To Do In Chester – Final Words

We had a wonderful time revisiting Chester, somewhere I had visited many times in the past. We stayed for five days on this visit, which was enough to see everything in the city and also explore beyond.

Chester makes a great base for travelling around the northwest of England and North Wales. It’s much smaller, more intimate (and beautiful!) than Liverpool or Manchester. It’s somewhere we’d happily return to as a couple or family.

Image of David Angel found of Delve into Europe Travel Blog / Website

David Angel is a British photographer, writer and historian. He is a European travel expert with over 30 years’ experience exploring Europe. He has a degree in History from Manchester University, and his work is regularly featured in global media including the BBC, Condé Nast Traveler, The Guardian, The Times, and The Sunday Times. David is fluent in French and Welsh, and can also converse in Italian, German, Portuguese, Spanish, Czech and Polish.

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15 Top-Rated Attractions & Things to Do in Chester

Written by Bryan Dearsley Updated Dec 28, 2023 We may earn a commission from affiliate links ( )

Chester, the county town of Cheshire, is noted for its vast array of historic monuments, including its magnificent medieval city walls.

Chester's roots date back to Roman times, and the Vikings, Danes, Saxons, Scots, and Normans also occupied the settlement at various times. By far the greatest influence on the city, however, was its maritime trade along the River Dee from the 12th to 14th centuries, which brought with it commercial and cultural prosperity.

The Old City has been a conservation area for more than 50 years and retains numerous well-preserved half-timbered houses, as well as the Rows , its magnificent two-tier medieval arcades. Add to this mix its attractive bridges, parks, and riverside walks, as well as the city's many musical festivals, excellent shopping, and one of the world's top zoos, and it's little wonder Chester ranks so highly on England's most popular places to visit.

Learn more about these and other great attractions with our list of the top things to do in Chester, England.

1. Take a Walk along Chester City Walls

2. see the historic chester rows, 3. watergate and lower bridge streets, 4. chester cathedral, 5. chester cathedral choir, 6. chester roman amphitheatre, 7. take the kids to chester zoo and the blue planet aquarium, 8. dewa roman experience, 9. the roman gardens, 10. enjoy a riverside stroll through the groves, 11. st. john the baptist's church, 12. grosvenor museum, 13. cheshire military museum, 14. cheshire workshops, 15. beeston and peckforton castles, where to stay in chester for sightseeing, chester - climate chart.

Built mostly of red sandstone, Chester's City Walls follow the even older Roman walls, except where they extend to the river to include Chester Castle . The complete circuit - the best preserved of its kind in Britain - is a nearly two-mile walk taking in the four main gates: Northgate, Eastgate, Bridgegate, and Watergate.

At Eastgate, you'll see a clock erected in 1897 to mark Queen Victoria's Diamond Jubilee, while at Northgate, traces of Roman foundations can still be seen. Another must-see while walking the walls is King Charles' Tower . It was here in 1645 that Charles I is said to have witnessed the defeat of his troops at Rowton Moor during the English Civil War. The tower houses a small civil war museum, and evidence of the conflict can still be seen at places along the wall.

Other City Wall highlights include Morgan's Mount, an impressive watchtower; Pemberton's Parlor, a semicircular tower with great views of the river area; and Bonewaldesthorne's Tower, a solid sandstone Water Tower built in 1325. You'll also pass Grosvenor Bridge, adjacent to the Rodee, an ancient horse racing track.

Finally, be sure to visit the famous Wishing Steps . It's said that anyone capable of running up and down twice without drawing breath will supposedly see their wishes fulfilled.

Address: Northgate Street, Chester

Among Chester's most distinctive features are its galleried walkways, with their many shops running the length of the old stone and half-timbered buildings. Dating from the 14th century, the Chester Rows evolved from houses and shops built partly in front of (and partly on top of) piles of rubble left from the Roman ruins.

These rows are found in all four of the town's main streets which, following the Roman town plan, meet at right angles at the market cross. In Eastgate, Bridge, and Watergate Streets, the galleries are at first floor level, while in Northgate Street they're mostly at ground level.

Address: Bridge Street, Chester

Watergate Street has several exceptional half-timbered houses, including God's Providence House, built in 1652 and so named as its inhabitants were spared the plague. It's also home to Bishop Lloyd's House, with its beautiful carvings.

Leche House (1579) also has elaborate half-timbering, as does richly-decorated Stanley Palace (1591). Watergate street is also where you'll find the oldest building in Chester, the Blue Bell Inn, which dates back to the late 14th century.

Lower Bridge Street is also well-known for its beautiful half-timbered houses, in particular Falcon House. Also worth seeing is Tudor House, built in 1603 and one of the oldest dwellings in the city. The Old King's Head Hotel and the Bear and Billet, a four storied half-timbered inn, are also worth checking out and make for great photos.

Address: Watergate Street, Chester

Chester Cathedral is built on the site of a much older church dating from AD 958 and a later Benedictine abbey (part of the old Norman church survives in the north transept). The abbey in turn became a cathedral when, following the Dissolution, a new diocese was created by Henry VIII in 1541.

The Lady Chapel and Chapter House are Early Gothic (post 1240), while most of the choir is High Gothic (1280-1315). The tower, west front, and upper part of the nave are Late Gothic (1485-90).

While the splendid three-aisle pillared nave of the Gothic basilica is undoubtedly one of this elegant structure's most striking features, the west end is also notable for several features. These include the baptistery, another relic of the Norman church, which contains a 6th-century Venetian font, and the Consistory Court, which, though less visually impressive, is nevertheless unique in England.

Address: 12 Abbey Square, Chester

Official site: www.chestercathedral.com

Detail of the ceiling in the Chester Cathedral Choir

The finest part of Chester Cathedral, its Early Decorated Choir, certainly deserves to be visited – even if it's all you see of this magnificent building. Its 14th-century stalls are superbly carved, with 48 droll misericords and an old abbot's seat inscribed with the Tree of Jesse, and part of a 14th-century shrine to St. Werburgh can be seen in the Lady Chapel .

On a musical note, Handel's Messiah was first rehearsed here and is often performed during the Christmas season. Visitors are also often thrilled to have the opportunity to hear the country's oldest volunteer choir in action, along with regular organ recitals.

The largest such attraction in Britain – and one of the top free things to do in the city – Chester Roman Amphitheatre remains the subject of continual excavation and discovery. As recently as 2005, excavations revealed two successive stone-built amphitheaters with wooden seating, one of them similar to that found in Pompeii.

In Roman times, the site was used for entertainment and military training by the famed 20th Legion, a fact that is especially impressive as you stand on the very spot where such activities took place some 2,000 years ago.

Address: Little St. John Street, Chester

Chester Zoo and the Blue Planet Aquarium

In Upton, just over a mile north of Chester city center, Chester Zoo is one of the UK's largest and most popular zoological parks. Home to more than 11,000 animals representing some 400 different species, this 125-acre site also features prizewinning landscaped gardens and its very own monorail system. Animal attractions include Chimpanzee Island, a penguin pool, and Europe's largest tropical house.

Another great wildlife-themed tourist attraction is Blue Planet Aquarium , home to more than 50 displays of fish and marine species. The largest section, the stunning Caribbean Reef exhibit, houses more than 700 fish, including southern stingrays and moray eels, as well as Europe's largest collection of sharks.

If your budget allows, book one of the attraction's popular shark dive experiences.

Address: Cedar House, Caughall Road, Chester

Official site: www.chesterzoo.org

Be sure to visit the Dewa Roman Experience, a fascinating interactive reconstruction of the sights, sounds, and smells of life inside the 2,000-year-old Roman fortress buried beneath modern-day Chester.

The adventure begins aboard a Roman galley, before moving into reconstructions of the granary, barracks, a bathhouse, and market stalls that would have formed part of the fortress that was home to the 5,000-strong 20th Legion.

Time it right, and you might be recruited for a fun Roman soldier patrol through the city. Guided city tours of Chester's Roman past are also available and are suitable for all ages. Afterwards, shop for souvenirs in the on-site gift shop.

Address: Pierpoint Lane, Chester

Official site: www.dewaromanexperience.co.uk

Located close to the Roman Amphitheatre and easily accessible from the magnificent city walls, the Roman Gardens should be on your list of places to visit in Chester. Established in 1949 as a place to display larger building remnants from the Roman fortress at Deva and other sites across the city, it's a delight to explore.

Set lining the garden paths, and perhaps the most notable remains, are the substantial columns that once supported the roof of the old Roman bathhouse and the fortresses' assembly hall. Also worth seeing are the gardens' three modern mosaics, along with a hypocaust, a stone building used by the Romans as a heating system.

While strolling through the gardens, look for the large section of the city wall that looks like it has been repaired. This was where, during the Civil War of 1645, Parliamentarian forces used cannons to create a breach large enough for troops to pass through. Access to the River Dee is also possible from the gardens.

Address: Pepper Street, Chester

Set alongside the pretty River Dee not far from Grosvenor Park (you can access the park from here), The Grove is fast becoming one of the top free things to do in Chester. This charming riverside promenade is a delightful place for a stroll at any time of year and offers some unique vistas of the city.

Start your stroll at the city walls on Lower Bridge Street on the Dee's north bank and simply follow the path all the way to Grosvenor Park. Along the way, you'll catch some great photo opportunities, including everything from the elegant homes of Queen's Park on the other bank, as well as of the swans that call the area home.

You'll also stroll past some very attractive old Georgian homes and plenty of pretty, tree-lined green space with ample park benches to stop and contemplate. Other top sights here include the Edwardian bandstand (seasonal concerts are offered), as well as the Queen's Park Suspension Bridge. A number of restaurants, tearooms, and cafés are also found here.

Just around the corner from the amphitheater stands St. John's Church. Known in full as St. John the Baptist's Church, parts of this attractive church – once the city's main cathedral – date from the late 19th century, along with a section comprising an earlier 12th-century Norman church.

The triforium is Transitional and dates from around 1200, and although the original choir and Lady Chapel were destroyed when the central tower collapsed, they can still be seen as picturesque ruins.

Also worth a visit is St. Michael's Church on Bridge Street. Although no longer in use as a church (it's now a heritage center), it contains numerous interesting features, including its fine stained glass windows and a 15th-century chancel.

Location: The Cross, Chester

Official site: https://stjohnschester.uk/history/

The Grosvenor Museum boasts a fine collection of Roman antiquities, along with special displays illustrating the life of the Roman legionary and the Roman fortification of Britain. Exhibits deal with matters of life and death during Roman times, including medicinal remedies and instruments, as well as impressive collections of modern artworks. There are also numerous paintings and sculptures dating back some five centuries.

At the rear of the museum is 20 Castle Street, the museum's Period House. Built around 1680, it's displayed as a sequence of nine period rooms dating from 1680 to 1925.

Other notable attractions close to Chester that are run by West Cheshire Museums include Weaver Hall Museum and Workhouse , a local history museum housed in what was once a schoolroom in a workhouse; the still-operating 19th-century Stretton Watermill ; and the restored Lion Salt Works near Northwich, with displays related to a once-important local industry.

Address: 27 Grosvenor Street, Chester

Chester Castle, home of the Cheshire Military Museum

Located in Chester Castle, the Cheshire Military Museum tells the story of the four famous regiments connected with the area from 1685 to the present day. Among the groups and individuals featured in the display are Lord Baden Powell, founder of the scouting movement, and The Cheshire Yeomanry, the last horsed regiment in action during WWII.

Highlights include displays following the exploits of the Regiments of Cheshire, their travels across the world, and the wars in which they fought, including a fascinating exhibit focusing on life in the trenches during WWI. The museum also houses the archive of the Cheshire Regiment, providing information on people who have served with the regiment.

Location: The Castle, Chester

Official site: www.cheshiremilitarymuseum.co.uk

The Craftsmen and women of the Cheshire Workshop not only demonstrate their hand-carved candle-making skills, they encourage visitors to participate in the art, too. The facility also offers glass, pottery, and jewelry displays, as well as a café and gift shop.

The attraction is particularly popular for parents, as the site includes a playground and numerous fun activities for kids.

Address: Barracks Lane, Higher Burwardsley, Tattenhall, Chester

Official site: www.cheshireworkshops.co.uk

The history of Beeston Castle stretches back more than 4,000 years to its origins as a Bronze Age hill fort. Perched high atop a rocky crag, the castle ruins are fun to explore and offer incredible views of the surrounding countryside, all the way to the Pennines and Wales. An interesting museum is located in the visitor center, and a café is located on the grounds.

A much newer fortress to check out is nearby Peckforton Castle . This attractive medieval-style castle was built in 1850 and made famous as the set for Patrick Bergin's 1991 film, Robin Hood . ( Peckforton Castle now serves as a 4-star luxury hotel.)

Address: Chapel Lane, Beeston

We recommend these highly rated hotels with easy access to Chester's historic monuments and city walls:

Roomzzz Chester City : A mid-range apartment hotel, Roomzzz Chester City features contemporary design and provides a free breakfast.
Oddfellows : This affordable boutique hotel is known for its quirky style, themed rooms, afternoon tea, and Mediterranean restaurant.
Premier Inn Chester Central (South East) Hotel : For a budget hotel, near the bus to the city center, this is a good choice. It features modern decor and comfortable beds.

More on England

The Top 10 Things to Do in Chester, England

The charming English city of Chester, found just south of Liverpool, displays Britain's connection to ancient Rome. With many well-preserved ruins to explore, including the remains of a Roman amphitheater, Chester is great for history buffs, as well as those who want to experience a classic English town. It's easily accessible from Manchester, Liverpool or Birmingham if you prefer a day trip, but travelers can also find a lot to see and do in the area for several days.

Chester, with its famous zoo and nice cultural institutions, is particularly good for families and it's easily walkable if you don't want to drive around. Whether you're looking for historical insight or just some shopping, Chester has a lot to offer. Here are the 10 best things to do when visiting.

Tour Chester Cathedral

Chester Cathedral was first founded as a Benedictine abbey in 1092 and later rebuilt in 1250 in the Gothic style. Part of the Church of England, the impressive cathedral still features the remains of Roman barracks and stands as the largest performance space in Chester today. Visitors are welcome Monday through Saturday (Sundays are for services only), and entry is free, although donations are encouraged. Stop by the Refectory Café, build in a 13th-century monk’s dining hall, for a snack or meal, and there's also a gift shop selling local items. Check the cathedral's calendar for upcoming performances and special services.

Explore Chester Zoo

Chester Zoo, which opened in 1931, is one of the U.K.'s biggest zoos and a good addition to any family itinerary in Chester. There are over 35,000 animals to see during your visit, as well as some memorable gardens, and kids will love the Treetop Challenge adventure course. Parking is free of charge, and the zoo has plenty of places to buy snacks or for young ones to run around. Grab tickets in advance online, especially when visiting during the summer.

Shop the Chester Rows

The Chester Rows, continuous two-tiered timber galleries with a signature black and white look, are the town's most iconic spot. Some of the buildings date back to the 13th century, while others are Victorian copies, and today they are filled with shops and boutiques. The Rows can be found on Watergate Street, Northgate Street, Eastgate Street, and Bridge Street, and the most famous building, the Three Old Arches, is on Bridge Street. It's a good spot to shop for souvenirs or to grab a photograph.

Walk the Chester City Walls

Dennis Barnes

Chester is surrounded by old stone walls, which can be traced all the way back to the Romans in 70 A.D. Once a defensive fortress, the walls, the oldest, longest, and most complete in Britain, are now a cool attraction that makes for a nice way to see Chester in its entirety. Access can be found at several points throughout the city. Guided walking tours are available from the Town Hall Visitor Information Centre if you want to learn more about Chester's history with the Romans. It's a relatively easy walk, but you'll want comfortable shoes and some rain gear when strolling during cloudy weather.

Visit the Grosvenor Museum

The Grosvenor Museum of Natural History and Archaeology, known as the Grosvenor Museum, is one of Chester's must-see attractions. The city's Roman history is, of course, on display, but the museum also has exhibitions on the overall history of Chester and its art and silver heritage, as well as the area's natural history. There are permanent and special exhibits, along with a calendar of events for both adults and kids, and visitors can also stop by for lectures by various local societies in the Lecture Theatre. The museum is open Tuesday through Saturday, with limited hours, so it's best to book your tickets on their website ahead of a visit.

Explore the Roman Amphitheater and Chester Roman Gardens

Getty Images

Chester has several sites dating back to the Romans, including its Roman amphitheater and the Chester Roman Gardens. The gardens, built in 1949, display ruins from the Roman fortress of Deva, which were uncovered in Chester in the 19th century (the city was once known as Deva Victrix). The amphitheater, a Grade I listed building and English Heritage site, was once the largest in Britain and used for entertainment and military training. The gardens and the amphitheater are free to enter and open year-round, making them great stops for any visitor.

Ride a Boat on the River Dee

George Standen

The scenic River Dee runs right through Chester, making it a great way to see the town. Several companies offer boat trips down the river, as well as rental shops where you can hire your own boat. Look for ChesterBoat , which offers a Half-hour City Cruise or a Two-hour Iron Bridge Cruise, as well as party cruises and private boat trips. Travelers can combine a ChesterBoat tour and a City Sightseeing open-bus tour ticket to get a complete land and water view of Chester. Cruises leave from near the Roman Amphitheatre on Souters Lane and can be booked the day of.

See a Show at Storyhouse

There's a lot to do (and see) at Storyhouse, a multi-use cultural center in Chester that features a movie theater, city library, drama theater, and restaurant. Located in the historic city center, Storyhouse makes a fun day or evening out, especially if you have a few days to spend in the area. The calendar of events is ever-changing, from films to plays to readings, and there are also numerous activities and events on offer for kids. It's open daily, so you can stop by for storytime in the library or make an evening out of it with dinner and a movie. Tickets range in price (and some events are free) so check online for the best option for your trip.

Place a Bet at Chester Racecourse

Getty Images Sport

Chester Racecourse opened in 1539 and remains the oldest of its kind still in operation. Races occur during the annual season, which typically launches each year in May and runs through September. Tickets range from 10 to 95 pounds, making them affordable for all budgets, and kids 17 and under a free when accompanied by an adult. There is a strict dress code when attending a race, so be sure you are following the guidelines on Chester Racecourse's website and pack something smart when traveling to Chester. Guests are allowed to bring their own picnics (although food and drinks are available there), so make a day out of your racing experience.

Grab a Pint

Courtesy of Coach House Inn

No visit to the historic town of Chester is complete without a visit to a historic pub. Chester has many good options, but the Coach House Inn, a 19th-century pub, will fulfill your cliched British dreams. The pub serves both food and drink, and visitors can even sleep in one of the rooms above the Coach House Inn. The menu includes many English classics, like fish and chips and sausages and mash, and there's a strong selection of beers on tap. The pub is close to Chester Cathedral and the Chester Rows, so book a table for lunch or dinner to take a break from sight-seeing.

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A Day to Visit Chester

Layer by Layer

JEAN PASCHKE

WWW.BRITAINONVIEW.COM

C HESTER IS MORE LIKE HEAVEN than any place on earth, according to town crier David Mitchell. “ Revelations tells us that heaven is a walled city with four gates which remain permanently open. It has a river running through it and a man calling out in a loud voice and reading from a scroll. Now where else can you find all of those factors in one city?” It’s hard to argue with a man with a stentorian voice, wearing tights, holding a scroll and making visitors welcome to this Cheshire city of some 118,000. Another comparison might be with a rich, delicious cake, made up of many layers of history in Britain’s oldest recorded town. Take, for example, the church of St. John the Baptist. It has been successively a Saxon church, then a Norman cathedral, desecrated by Edward VI and then Cromwell’s army, and continually rebuilt. Some of the walls were constructed with plundered Roman tombstones now on display in the nave. The exterior is Victorian, the four mighty columns and their bays are pure Norman, as is the crossing, while the clerestory is 13th-century. The adjoining Roman garden is filled with columns and statues found around the town. Visitors to Chester soon discover the Roman amphitheater there and the waterworks that still function. Then there’s the story of Chester’s valiant fighting on the wrong side of the Civil War, and its Tudor houses daubed with horsehair and manure, improved by the Victorians who painted them black and white, and then improved again by their 19th- and 20th-century owners who carefully restored them with great attention to authenticity (except for that black-and-white thing). There are gracious Georgian mansions, a 13th-century shopping mall and horses thundering around the Roodee racecourse. They can see the spot where John Wesley preached, as well as the riverbank where witches were rolled to their doom in a barrel. They can take yet another snapshot of the second-most photographed clock in the country, the Eastgate Clock, built to honor Queen Victoria’s golden jubilee in 1897. Chester is easy to explore, either by foot with a town guide, or on the hop-on-hop-off bus that runs daily. It is entirely possible to see the important sights in a day or two, with a little judicious planning. A good starting point is a walk, either guided or on one’s own, around the city walls, the most complete circuit of Roman and medieval town wall’s in Britain. Roman Chester was an important legionary fortress called Castra Deva, built in AD 79 to keep a watchful eye on those pesky Welsh just across the border. In those days, the Dee estuary came right up to Chester. Ships from across the Roman Empire brought in slate, lead, wine, figs, pottery and everything else needed to supply the sizable military and civilian population. Remains of the Roman harbor wall, called one of the most impressive examples of Roman engineering to survive in Britain, still stand, visible from the present wall. Eventually the Dee silted up and the tidal pool became a football field. But when the sport there became too violent, the Roodee took its place in 1539. It is the country’s oldest and possibly shortest—opinions differ—racecourse. Race days still bring as many as 20,000 visitors to Chester.

Chester is heaven on earth according to author Jean Paschke and Chester’s town crier David Mitchell.

Chester’s wall survived long after the Roman legions had marched away, around AD 400, and was subsequently improved by the Saxons and their successors. More towers were added. The Lead Shot Tower made ammunition for the Napoleonic Wars. Molten lead drops fell 120 feet into a bucket of cold water, where they became round and hard. Historians still argue about the original purpose, whether defensive or mercantile, of the Water Tower, built in 1322. As the river silted up, the tower was no longer on the water, but it makes a fine vantage point from which to view the river. A steep stairway up adjoining Bonewaldesthorne’s Tower leads to a camera obscura trained on the busy town below. King Charles I, from a vantage point on the wall, allegedly watched his army defeated in the Siege of Chester in 1645, although it is doubtful that he could have seen a battle pitched three miles away. The city stubbornly upheld the king, while the surrounding countryside backed Parliament. Chester was starved into submission and much of it destroyed. It was decimated by plague, then rebuilt. For more Roman history, visitors can follow a fully equipped soldier and receive a diploma of military service signed by the emperor, or note the shrine to Minerva, the only one of its kind in northern Europe. The Visitors Centre on Vicar’s Lane has a well-interpreted tour of Roman Chester, while right outside, a Roman amphitheater that could seat 7,000 is currently being excavated. When a block with iron fittings was discovered in the exact center of the arena, it was presumed to have been a place to tie wild animals or prisoners before dispatching them to the cheers of the crowd. Archaeologists held a Roman-style ceremony to honor those who installed it and those who died there before removing it for study.

By the 18th century, wars forgotten, Chester was a tourist center. The walls were strengthened, and old gateways were replaced by elegant arches, turning a military encampment into a fashionable promenade. The Duke of Westminster, who owned much of the city and surrounding countryside, had the revolutionary idea of building retirement homes for his workers, equipping them with the first modern plumbing in the city. He also founded the Grosvenor Museum, now guarded by a mighty Roman warrior and complete with natural history, Roman and timeline galleries. When a bit of retail therapy is called for, or an escape from the rain, head for the first indoor shopping mall, the Rows—covered, two-tiered black-and-white buildings that probably date from the 13th century. Farther afield, Chester Zoo, reachable by train, bus or car, is the largest in the UK, with 600 species of animals. Its apes and rhinos are in enclosures, not cages, and conservation of species is a big part of its mission. Take a pleasant ride down the River Dee on Lady Diana or Mark Twain , past more of the present Duke of Westminster’s domain and the rowing, canoe and kayak clubs that dot this stretch of the Dee. Then perhaps go back to choral evensong in Chester Cathedral, another layer cake of successive building, rebuilding, dissolution, remodeling, and at last, the grand sandstone structure seen today. It contains the only complete ecclesiastical courtroom still in use in England, dating from 1636. The reredos behind St. Oswald’s Chapel is a marvelous example of German woodcarving. The choir stalls, the finest in Britain, date from about 1380, and their 48 misericords—ledges on which monks could mercifully lean while they prayed—are fantastically carved. Don’t miss the famous “cobweb” Madonna and Child in the north transept, painted on a caterpillar’s net. Handel wrote part of Messiah here in 1742, and his original manuscript is sometimes on display. The whole of Chester history comes to life on a remarkable handmade quilt on display at the visitors entrance of Chester Cathedral. With its depiction of medieval drama, Roman walls, Tudor houses, people in Tshirts and trainers coming out of modern shops, and the cathedral itself, the quilt uniquely sums up the essence of Chester.

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VP Kamala Harris will return to Wisconsin next Thursday, her fourth visit this year

Vice President Kamala Harris will travel to Milwaukee next Thursday, May 16, her fourth visit to Wisconsin this year and the latest indication of the Biden administration's continued focus on the battleground state.

Harris will visit Wisconsin as part of her Economic Opportunity Tour, the White House said Tuesday, which highlights how the administration "has built economic opportunity, supported communities, and delivered historic investments for the American people."

Details of where Harris will speak in Milwaukee have not yet been released.

The announcement comes one day before President Joe Biden is set to make his fourth trip to Wisconsin in 2024 in Racine .

Biden is expected to highlight a massive increase in the scale of Microsoft's data center development in Mount Pleasant, an opportunity to contrast the failed Foxconn project supported by former President Donald Trump.

More: President Biden's Racine County visit to highlight huge expansion of Microsoft data center

Harris was in the state just over two weeks ago, when she announced new rules for nursing home staffing and rallied voters around abortion in La Crosse . She has also visited Madison and Big Bend this year.

While the administration has often visited the Democratic strongholds of Milwaukee and Madison, the Biden campaign has also focused attention on traditionally conservative areas like Waukesha County. Trump held his second rally of the year in Waukesha last week.

The latest Marquette University Law School poll of Wisconsin voters showed a tight race for the presidency, with 51% supporting Trump and 49% favoring Biden, well within the poll's margin of error.

More: In the ground game to engage Black Milwaukee voters, signs of waning enthusiasm for 2020 rematch

Meghan Markle gives incredible new update on Prince Archie and Princess Lilibet during day one of Nigeria trip - live updates

The couple begin their three-day trip to nigeria on friday.

Meghan Markle shared some sweet updates about Prince Archie and Princess Lilibet , as she and Prince Harry kicked off their three-day tour of Nigeria with a visit to a local school, supported by their Archewell Foundation.

The Duke and Duchess of Sussex were all smiles as they received a warm welcome at Lightway Academy in Abuja, with the couple taking time to chat with students and receiving beaded necklaces as gifts.

As they stopped at a kindergarten class, where children aged two to five danced and sung songs for them, Harry asked them: "Is singing and dancing your favourite class?"

"That’s Lili's favorite class," Meghan said of their two-year-old daughter. "Maybe it's all the jumping around."

The Sussexes were then taken to a STEM class where a group of youngsters showed the robot cars they’d created, with one proudly saying his was called M-Bot.

As Harry asked the class whether they enjoyed electronics, Meghan revealed that their son Archie liked construction.

Harry and Meghan welcomed to Nigerian school

During their time at the school, Harry and Meghan helped to launch an inaugural mental health summit run by local non-profit, GEANCO, which the couple's Archewell Foundation is linked with.

Harry and Meghan meeting students at the Lights Academy in Abuja, Nigeria

The Duke spoke of the importance of opening up about your mental health, telling the youngsters: "The more you talk about it, the more you can kick stigma away, fall far away into long grass, and then everybody will have the opportunity to be able to share how they're feeling, how they're coping, and then you can help other people.

"So will you promise to us that after today, no more being scared, no more being unsure of mental health. If you are unsure, then ask. Ask your teachers. Ask your friends. Be there for one another. If you see your friend in your class not smiling, what are you gonna do? You gonna check in with them? Are you gonna ask him if they're okay? Because it's okay not to be okay."

Harry and Meghan visiting a kindergarten class

Meghan then told the class: "We all have our story. And there's no shame in any single one of your stories. Even on the hardest days or darkest days, everything is a pillar of your strength by each of you being there. Your teachers see that in you. And we see that in you."

She added of her daughter: "And interestingly, so our daughter, Lili, she's much, much tinier than you guys. She's about to turn three. And a few weeks ago she looked at me and she would just see the reflection in my eyes. And she said 'Mama, I see me in you'. Oh, now she was talking really, literally. But I hung onto those words in a very different way. And I thought, yes, I do see me and you, and you see me and you, but as I look around this room, I see myself in all of you as well."

For her first engagement of the trip, Meghan looked chic in a tonal tiered dress, accessorising with metallic jewellery and her brunette locks pulled back in a braided ponytail. Meanwhile Harry sported a matching stone-coloured shirt and linen trousers.

The couple have not been joined by their children, Prince Archie, who turned five on Monday, and Princess Lilibet, who turns three in June. Find out why on the latest episode of HELLO!'s A Right Royal Podcast...

LISTEN: Why Archie and Lilibet have not joined Harry and Meghan in Nigeria

This Sunday marks Mother's Day in the US, with Meghan likely to miss out on the occasion with her children, given the length of their Nigeria visit.

Harry and Meghan hold hands as they arrive at school in Nigeria

The three-day trip marks Harry and Meghan's first official visit to Nigeria. It comes after the Duke met Nigeria’s chief of defence staff in Germany last September at the Invictus Games in Dusseldorf.

Reunited in London

Their arrival comes after the pair reunited at Heathrow Airport in London on Thursday, when the Duchess of Sussex took a solo flight from Los Angeles to meet her husband at the airport's VIP Windsor Suite.

Meghan Markle standing with Prince Harry

The couple subsequently boarded a British Airways flight to Abuja, where they later arrived on the invitation of the chief of defence staff.

Meghan wore black trousers and a brown jacket for the journey, while her husband donned a black jacket and trousers. They're thought to be staying at Transcorp Hilton in Abuja during their trip.

Harry and Meghan's first stop will be at a school before the Duke meets injured service members at a military hospital in the afternoon. They'll also attend a training session for charity organisation Nigeria: Unconquered, which collaborates with the Invictus Games, as well as a reception where military families will be honoured.

MORE OF PRINCE HARRY

Meghan is also set to co-host an event of Women in Leadership with Dr Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, the director-general of the World Trade Organisation.

On Sunday, the last day of their visit, the pair will attend a basketball camp with Giants of Africa, a cultural reception and a polo fundraiser for Nigeria: Unconquered.

The trip marks Meghan and Harry's first visit to Nigeria as a couple. The country holds a special place for them both, with Meghan having spent time with the Nigerian team at the Invictus Games last year and was even bestowed her own Nigerian name Amira Ngozi Lolo.

While "Amira" translates as warrior princess from a legend, "Ngozi" means blessed and "Lolo" symbolises royal wife.

Bobby Ojeh, the leader of the Nigerian team, told HELLO! last year: " She has the sentimental attachment to Nigeria , so it dawned on us as a team to say why don't we just give Meghan a name.

"She's wonderful, she's just wonderful. The way she embraced [her Nigerian heritage] meant a lot to us as Nigerians and this is the message we take back to Nigeria."

Prince Harry and Meghan Markle walking down steps in Cape Town

Harry and Meghan's Nigeria visit comes after the Duke marked the 10th anniversary of the Invictus Games at St Paul's Cathedral in London on Wednesday, where he was joined by various guests including close relatives of his mother Diana, Princess of Wales.

The service at St Paul's began as King Charles met guests at the first Buckingham Palace garden party of 2024.

The father and son didn't meet during Harry's brief UK visit due to the King's "full programme", according to the Duke's spokesperson.

LOVE THE ROYALS? JOIN THE CLUB!

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If you are reading this, the chances are you are obsessed with all things royalty – which is just as well because so are we! So obsessed, in fact, we’ve launched a club solely dedicated to covering them. So welcome to The HELLO! Royal Club . We would love you to join us there…

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Meghan Markle
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Chester May Festival 2024: Hidden Law breaks down after winning the Chester Vase

Charle Appleby's three-year-old lands the feature on day one on the Roodee but sadly suffered a fatal fall while Forest Fairy, Seraphim Angel and Garfield Shadow also scored

16:37, 8 MAY 2024
Updated 16:41, 8 MAY 2024

$Hidden Law, ridden by William Buick, winning the Boodles Chester Vase Stakes on day one of the 2024 Boodles May Festival at Chester Racecourse on Wednesday, May 8 2024 – sadly he fractured a leg in a fatal accident after the line$

There was a hugely sad ending to the Boodles Chester Vase Stakes as winner Hidden Law (9-4) suffered a fatal injury after the line on day one of the Boodles Chester May Festival.

The three-year-old son of Dubawi landed the Group Three feature on the Roodee, scoring by three lengths under Liverpool FC fan William Buick, from front-running Agenda (3-1), from the Aidan O'Brien stable. He won in the style of a real contender for next month's Derby at Epsom for Godolphin trainer Charlie Appleby. But almost immediately after crossing the line, he made a false step and fractured his leg. Buick jumped off immediately but Hidden Law had to be put down.

Appleby said: "He fractured his leg, unfortunately. He passed the line all okay and then when he's crossed the road, he's took a false step on it and he's come down on it basically. It's one of those very freak accidents. Unfortunately, we can only go on what we've seen and won't see again for the future, it's very disappointing.

"Most importantly, I feel so sorry for His Highness Sheikh Mohammed and Team Godolphin. To have a horse like him potentially coming through the ranks was exciting for everybody. It's a sad day.

"I have to thank everybody here at the course, they've been very accommodating and were very speedy in what they've done. I feel sorry for Wayne, the groom, and all the staff back at Moulton Paddocks, who have done so much work with this horse. Will got up fine, which is the most important thing. He's a bit shook from it because it's not a nice thing to happen."

Rossa Ryan and Forest Fairy (left, red cap) win the Weatherbys ePassport Cheshire Oaks from Ryan Moore and Port Fairy (right, orange/blue) at Chester Racecourse on day one of the 2024 Boodles Chester May Festival on Wednesday, May 8 2024

Ralph Beckett's Forest Fairy (11-4) booked her place at Epsom for the Betfred Oaks on May 31 when landing the Listed Weatherbys ePassport Cheshire Oaks, under Rossa Ryan. The three-year-old daughter of Waldgeist had won on her debut at Wolverhampton last month. And she just got the better of a battle with Aidan O'Brien's Port Fairy (7-1) to score by a neck to remain unbeaten after two starts. Stable-mate Seaward made the running with eventual second Port Fairy sat in second. On the turn for home, Port Fairy took over but Forest Fairy was always making inroads on the outside. The pair battled all the way up the run-in but it was Forest Fairy who just got the verdict.

She looks set to head to Epsom now and is a best-priced 14-1 with bet365 for the Fillies' Classic behind the current favourite, the O'Brien-trained Ylang Ylang is 11-4 with William Hill and BetVictor following Sunday's fifth-placed finish in the QIPCO 1,000 Guineas at Newmarket.

Beckett, who also Seaward finish third, said: "It was a very good result on all levels, the winner is still a work in progress and was still learning plenty on the job today. I think it's probable she'll end up at Epsom on the last Friday of the month. I don't think I will be too worried about the ground, they usually do a good job for the first day of that meeting, she's a good-moving filly and I would imagine it will be similar ground to today. She was just very immature at two and we had to take our time with her. I think we were all a bit surprised by how well she won on her debut at Wolverhampton, but we certainly haven't underestimated her since!"

On Seaward, he added: "The filly that finished third ran a good race too and she could come back to 10 furlongs for a race like the Agnes Keyser at Goodwood (June 9)."

Winning jockey Ryan, who was landing a first winner at Chester on his 40th ride, added: "We went an okay gallop, they steadied up down the back and we got racing three (furlongs) out. She's still showed a lot of signs of inexperience when I had to come out from behind and be a bit aggressive on her, but you can't be but impressed by the way she got out and had a look around and still when the job needed to be done, she stuck her head down and galloped right out to the line. I'll leave it up to Ralph and the team to decide where she goes next, but I would imagine that when she gets on softer going conditions, she'll be a lot better again – and I'd imagine with racing, she'll get better.

"She got away with the ground today, it's probably on the slow side of good and I don't think she'd want it any quicker than that. She did everything I asked of her and more and answered more questions than I thought she would. We shall see what the future holds, but she's an exciting filly for sure and she's one that should get better with time and with age."

Pierre-Louis Jamin and Seraphim Angel win the CAA Stellar Lily Agnes EBF Conditions Stakes at Chester Racecourse on the first day of the 2024 Boodles Chester May Festival on Wednesday, May 8 2024

Tom Dascombe's Seraphim Angel (11-2) won CAA Stellar Lily Agnes EBF Conditions Stakes. Dascombe, who had plenty of winners at this meeting when training at former Liverpool FC and England striker Michael Owen's nearby Manor House Stables, took the five-furlong sprint with the daughter of first-season sire Sergei Prokofiev. Seraphim Angel, under Pierre-Louis Jamin, was just off the pace set by eventual third Lady Lightning (11-2). But she can down thte outside to beat 18-5 favourite Flicka's Girl by a length-and-a-half.

Dascombe, who now trains in Lambourn, said: "She went to Newmarket (when fourth last month), we're not hard on them at home, and she didn't know what to do when she came off the bridle. She'd clearly learned a lot today and won. We'll see how she is but she has loads of speed so I'd suggest she'll go to York for the Marygate. She's won a twenty-grand bonus today, prize-money is always good at Chester so she's more than paid for herself already and I love her. It was difficult moving back to Lambourn with so few horses and last year we put all our yearlings in a pre-training yard that got strangles and a lot of the horses we couldn't give them a winter prep. This is the first time in two years that we've had a clear run at getting them ready and I think we've had four runners and that's our second winner so I'm delighted. It's great to have a winner at Chester in this race, I love this race, and the people here are so welcoming and friendly. It's a great track to have a runner at."

Knicks, ridden by jockey Joanna Mason (centre), on the way to winning the tote.co.uk Saddle-Up For More Than Racing Handicap on the first day of the 2024 Boodles May Festival at Chester Racecourse on Wednesday, May 8 2024

Joint-trainer David Easterby praised jockey Joanna Mason after Knicks (11-1) won the tote.co.uk Saddle-Up For More Than Racing Handicap. From stall six the three-year-old came across to lead early on in the five-furlong sprint. And he stayed on well to win by a neck from runner-up Vince L'Amour (13-2) with the fast-finishing Due For Luck (7-2) just a short-head back in third.

Easterby said: "I have to give Joanna 10 out of 10 for getting out so quick and turning stall six into stall one. That was amazing, I couldn't believe it. She did everything right, held on for a little bit and I think we got the trip right with him. The only one of the owners who isn't here is Lee Westwood, he's working today for a change, and it's fantastic to be involved in a horse like this. I think we'll probably end up going for the three-year-old-old Dash at Epsom. That's the plan."

Richard Fahey's Garfield Shadow (20-1) made it three wins from three starts when defying a wide draw to win the opening CAA Stellar Handicap at Chester. The three-year-old, who had won at Hamilton and Newcastle on his two starts last season, overcame stall 13 in the five-furlong sprint. Under a fine ride by David Nolan, he was sat near the back. But when the gaps came in the the final furlong-and-a-half, he burst through on the rail score by a neck from the well-backed 7-2 favourite Al Shabab Storm. Old Chums (7-1) was a further three-quarters-of-a-length back in third.

Winning jockey Nolan said: "I enjoyed that. They went really quick and the opportunity was there for me to just slide into the fence. I snuck up a few spots and my hand was forced, I had to ride for luck and it doesn't always happen like that. We got lovely splits at the right time and this isn't a bad horse. It's not often you get the splits like we did. I've been moaning all morning about the draw but it can be happen and you need a bit of luck."

O'Brien's Gallantly (11-8 favourite) gave the Irish trainer a victory on day one on the Roodee after two earlier seconds in the ESL Export Maiden Stakes. Under Ryan Moore, the three-year-old son of Frankel scored by a length-and-a-quarter from Castle In The Sand (10-3).

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Hungary and China sign strategic cooperation agreement during visit by Chinese President Xi

Chinese President Xi Jinping visited the President’s Palace in Budapest on Thursday at the start of a three-day visit to Hungary. The Chinese leader started his first European tour five days ago by visiting France and then Serbia.

Chinese President Xi Jinping, left, speaks during his joint press conference with Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban following their talks at the PM’s office, the former Carmelite Monastery, in Budapest, Hungary, Thursday, May 9 2024. (Szilard Koszticsak/MTI via AP)

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Chinese President Xi Jinping speaks during his joint press conference with Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban following their talks at the PM’s office, the former Carmelite Monastery, in Budapest, Hungary, Thursday, May 9 2024. (Szilard Koszticsak/MTI via AP)

Hungarian President Tamas Sulyok, right, and Chinese President Xi Jinping, on table second left, during their meeting in the presidential Alexander Palace in Budapest, Thursday, May 9, 2024. (Noemi Bruzak /MTI via AP)

Hungarian President Tamas Sulyok, rear right, receives Chinese President Xi Jinping, rear left, with military honours in the Lion Court of the Castle of Buda in Budapest, Thursday, May 9, 2024. (Zoltan Mathe/MTI via AP)

Hungarian President Tamas Sulyok, front right, receives Chinese President Xi Jinping, front left, with military honours in the Lion Court of the Castle of Buda in Budapest, Thursday, May 9, 2024. (Szilard Koszticsak/MTI via APö

Hungarian President Tamas Sulyok, right, receives Chinese President Xi Jinping, left, with military honours in the Lion Court of the Castle of Buda in Budapest, Thursday, May 9, 2024. (Zoltan Mathe/MTI via AP)

Tibetan protesters stretched Tibetan flags next to Chinese national flags in Gellert Hill against Chinese President Xi Jinping’s visit to Budapest, Hungary, on Thursday, May 9, 2024. (AP Photo/Denes Erdos)

A Tibetan protester shouts surrounded by Hungarian police next to a Tibetan flag in Gellert Hill, against Chinese President Xi Jinping’s visit to Budapest, Hungary on Thursday, May 9, 2024. (AP Photo/Denes Erdos)

A Tibetan woman shouts into a loudspeaker against Chinese President Xi Jinping’s visit, surrounded by Hungarian police in Gellert Hill, Budapest, Hungary on Thursday, May 9, 2024. (AP Photo/Denes Erdos)

Chinese nationals take pictures of Tibetan protesters during Xi Jinping’s visit to Budapest, Hungary, on Thursday, May 9, 2024. Many Chinese nationals claiming to be volunteers with China’s embassy are present in the city, wearing red baseball caps to identify themselves. (AP Photo/Denes Erdos)

A Tibetan protester shouts surrounded by Hungarian police next to a Tibetan flag in Gellert Hill against Chinese President Xi Jinping’s visit to Budapest, Hungary on Thursday, May 9, 2024. (AP Photo/Denes Erdos)

Tibetan protesters stretched a Tibetan flag in Gellert Hill against Chinese President Xi Jinping’s visit to Budapest, Hungary on Thursday, May 9, 2024. (AP Photo/Denes Erdos)

Hungarian President Tamas Sulyok, third right, and Chinese President Xi Jinping, fifth left, during their meeting in the presidential Alexander Palace in Budapest, Thursday, May 9, 2024. (Noemi Bruzak /MTI via AP)

Hungarian President Tamas Sulyok, left, receives Chinese President Xi Jinping, right, with military honours in the Lion Court of the Castle of Buda in Budapest, Thursday, May 9, 2024. (Zoltan Mathe/MTI via AP)

People wave Chinese and Hungarian flags as they wait for the arrival of Chinese President Xi Jinping outside the Buda Castle in Budapest, Hungary, Thursday, May 9, 2024. (AP Photo/Denes Erdos)

People wave Chinese and Hungarian flags for the Chinese President Xi Jinping outside the Buda Castle in Budapest, Hungary, Thursday, May 9, 2024. (AP Photo/Denes Erdos)

In this image provided by the Hungarian Prime Minister’s Office, Chinese President Xi Jinping, left, shakes hands with Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban as he arrives for a state visit at the Liszt Ferenc International Airport in Budapest, Hungary, Wednesday, May 8, 2024. (Vivien Cher Benko/Hungarian Prime Minister’s Office/MTI via AP)

Peng Liyuan, center left, wife of Chinese President Xi Jinping watches the activity of third graders as she, and Aniko Levai, center right, wife of Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban visit a classroom at the Chinese-Hungarian bilingual school of Budapest, Hungary, Thursday May 9, 2024 during the state visit of President Xi to Hungary. (Zoltan Mathe/MTI via AP)

Peng Liyuan, center, wife of Chinese President Xi Jinping speaks with third graders as she, and Aniko Levai, second right, wife of Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban visit a classroom with headmaster Zsuzsanna Erdelyi, right, at the Chinese-Hungarian bilingual school of Budapest, Hungary, Thursday May 9, 2024 during the state visit of President Xi to Hungary. (Zoltan Mathe/MTI via AP)

BUDAPEST, Hungary (AP) — Hungary and China signed a number of new agreements on Thursday to deepen their economic and cultural cooperation during a visit to the Central European country by Chinese President Xi Jinping, a trip meant to solidify China’s economic footprint in the region.

Xi and Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orbán held talks in the capital Budapest as part of the Chinese leader’s final stop on a five-day European tour that also took in Serbia and France . During a press briefing following the talks, Orbán praised the “continuous, uninterrupted friendship” between the two countries since his tenure began in 2010, and promised that Hungary would continue to host further Chinese investments.

“I would like to assure the president that Hungary will continue to provide fair conditions for Chinese companies investing in our country, and that we will create the opportunity for the most modern Western and the most modern Eastern technologies to meet and build cooperation in Hungary,” Orbán said.

Beijing has invested billions in Hungary and sees the European Union member as an important foothold inside the 27-member trading bloc. In December, Hungary announced that one of the world’s largest EV manufacturers, China’s BYD, will open its first European EV production factory in the south of the country — an inroad that could upend the competitiveness of the continent’s auto industry.

China's President Xi Jinping's wife Peng Liyuan, right, and French President Emmanuel Macron's wife Brigitte Macron pose in front of the clock as they visit the Orsay Museum, Monday, May 6, 2024 in Paris. (AP Photo/Aurelien Morissard, Pool)

Hungary is also hosting several Chinese EV battery plants and hopes to become a global hub of lithium ion battery manufacturing, and has undertaken a railway project — part of Xi’s Belt and Road Initiative — to connect the country with the Chinese-controlled port of Piraeus in Greece as an entry point for Chinese goods to Central and Eastern Europe.

On Thursday, Xi said he and Orbán agreed the Belt and Road Initiative “is highly consistent with Hungary’s strategy of opening to the east,” and that China supports Hungary in playing a greater role within the EU on promoting China-EU relations.

Hungarian and Chinese officials concluded a strategic partnership agreement and signed 18 other agreements and memoranda of understanding, but no major investments were announced at the news briefing.

However, Hungarian Foreign Minister Péter Szijjártó later said in a video on Facebook that initial discussions had begun on China developing a freight railway bypass of Budapest and a rail link between the capital and Budapest Ferihegy airport.

Orbán, a nationalist populist leader who has pursued deeper ties with Beijing while distancing himself from his more mainstream partners in the EU, noted during the news conference that three-quarters of investments in Hungary last year came from China, and spoke of Beijing’s role in the world’s shifting balance of power.

“Looking back at the world economy and commerce of 20 years ago, it doesn’t resemble at all what we’re living in today,” Orbán said. “Then, we lived in a single polar world, and now we live in a multi-polar world order, and one of the main columns of this new world order is China.”

He added that Hungary would seek to expand economic cooperation with China to the field of nuclear energy. Hungary is currently working with Russia on adding a new reactor to its Paks nuclear facility, which is expected to go online by the end of the decade.

Budapest residents met with road closures and increased security during Xi’s visit as groups of his supporters and critics gathered in various points of the city to demonstrate.

Hundreds of people gathered near Budapest’s Buda Castle waving Chinese and Hungarian flags, hoping to catch a glimpse of Xi’s motorcade. Many Chinese nationals in red baseball caps and claiming to be volunteers with China’s embassy were present.

A Hungarian lawmaker with the opposition Momentum party told The Associated Press that he and a colleague had been approached by a group of such men on Wednesday as they attempted to place EU flags on a bridge in Budapest.

In a video obtained by the AP, the lawmaker, Márton Tompos, said that the men, all wearing red baseball caps, confronted him to make sure that no flags or symbols referencing China-claimed Tibet or Taiwan would be hung on the route of Xi’s motorcade.

“They told me that they were volunteers for the Chinese embassy here, and they said they wanted to make sure that there weren’t Tibetan or Taiwanese flags, because that wouldn’t be nice,” Tompos said. The men wouldn’t let his colleague proceed “until he showed them that it was an EU flag,” he added.

Other minor conflicts broke out during the day between Tibetan protesters and some of the red-capped Chinese nationals, who attempted to prevent activists from displaying Tibetan flags by obscuring them with their own Chinese national flags.

One activist, Tenzin Yangzom, a campaign coordinator for the International Tibet Network, criticized Hungary’s government for “allowing the Chinese police to be operating on Hungarian streets.”

“This is not China, is it? This is Hungary, it’s a free country, you have freedom of speech,” she said.

International

Trump's hush money trial

Israel-Hamas war

Stormy Daniels wraps up testimony in Trump hush money trial

By CNN's Kara Scannell, Lauren Del Valle and Jeremy Herb in the courthouse

Here are some key takeaways from the 14th day of Trump's criminal hush money trial

From CNN's Jeremy Herb, Lauren del Valle and Kara Scannell

Former President Donald Trump observes as Madeleine Westerhout, a former employee of Donald Trump in the White House, testifies in the Trump hush money criminal trial on May 9.

Former President Donald Trump ’s lawyers continued their attack on the credibility of Stormy Daniels for several hours Thursday, with defense attorney Susan Necheles accusing the adult film star of making up the story of having sex with Trump.

Today also saw testimony from a woman who was once among the closest people working with Trump in the White House, and failed efforts by the defense to get a mistrial and an exception to the defendant's gag order.

Here are some key takeaways from Day 14 of the Trump hush money trial:

Contentious testimony: Daniels combatively and defiantly responded to questions from Necheles, insisting her story of a sexual encounter with Trump was true. Trump has denied the affair.

Trump’s attorney asked about minor inconsistencies in interviews Daniels has given about her interactions with Trump. Necheles also picked apart how Daniels has previously described the encounter .

Necheles also insinuated Daniels had employed her skills as a porn writer in making up the story. “You have a lot of experience of making phony stories about sex appear to be real,” the Trump attorney asked.

"Wow," Daniels said, with a pause. “That’s not how I would put it. The sex in the films is very much real, just like what happened to me in that room.”

Lawyers spar over Daniels' financial situation: Beyond the details of the alleged encounter itself, Trump’s attorneys and prosecutors had Daniels tell conflicting accounts of her financial situation.

Necheles continued to suggest that Daniels was making money off of saying she had sex with Trump, pointing to a tweet where she said she’d earned $1 million and others where she directed her supporters to her online store after Trump was indicted.

Prosecutors, meanwhile, had Daniels recount how telling her story has also cost her, from having to move her daughter and hire security to the lawyers’ fees she was ordered to pay after she sued Trump and lost.

Former aide takes us inside the Trump White House: Former White House aide Madeleine Westerhout described the inner workings of Trump’s West Wing, where she worked for more than two years sitting just outside the Oval Office.

Westerhout described Trump's work habits, from his affinity for sharpies and hard copies of documents, to his close control over his social media posts and his preference to talk to people in person or on the phone — not by email.

While she did not testify to direct knowledge of the checks Trump signed to his former fixer Michael Cohen, which are cited in the charges against Trump, her story added to the prosecution's narrative about his involvement with the checks in 2017.

Two failed efforts by Trump's team: Judge Juan Merchan denied the request from Trump's lawyers to make an exception to the gag order allowing him to speak publicly about Daniels, saying he must protect the integrity of the proceedings, and he doesn’t trust Trump not to violate an order if he were to modify it.

The judge also denied Trump’s renewed motion for a mistrial over the salacious testimony Daniels gave, which his attorneys say unfairly prejudices the jury against Trump. Merchan said the specificity is important to helping the jury make a determination.

Read a full recap of today's proceedings here.

Here are the witnesses who have testified so far in the Trump hush money trial

From CNN staff

Defense attorney Susan Necheles cross-examines adult film actress Stormy Daniels during the trial on May 9.

Donald Trump's longtime assistant, the former banker of Trump's attorney Michael Cohen and adult film actress Stormy Daniels are among witnesses who have taken the stand so far in the hush money trial.

As of Thursday, here's everybody we've heard from so far:

David Pecker — the former CEO of American Media Inc., the National Enquirer's parent company — was the first witness called to testify. After more than 10 hours of testimony across four days, he offered illuminating details into how the infamous tabloid operated and conducted so-called “catch and kill” operations.
Rhona Graff , Trump's longtime assistant at the Trump Organization, was called to testify briefly on April 26.
Gary Farro , the former banker of Cohen, walked the jury through Cohen’s bank activity around the payment to Daniels.

Keith Davidson testifies during direct examination on May 2.

Keith Davidson , the former lawyer for model and actress Karen McDougal as well as for Daniels, was on the stand for nearly 6 hours over two days.
Douglas Daus works for the Manhattan District Attorney's High Technology Analysis Unit, and was assigned to analyze two iPhones that belonged to Cohen in the investigation related to Trump. They were obtained via a search warrant. Daus testified about the "unusual" amount of contacts and other things he found on Cohen's phone.
Hope Hicks , Trump's longtime former aide, testified for a little less than three hours about her role as Trump’s 2016 campaign press secretary, the aftermath of the “Access Hollywood” tape release and Cohen's payment to Daniels.

Prosecutor Matthew Colangelo questions former longtime Trump Organization controller Jeffrey McConney on May 6.

Jeffrey McConney , a former Trump Organization controller, testified about how Cohen's payments were listed in Trump's financial documents.
Deborah Tarasoff, the accounts payable supervisor in the accounting department at the Trump Organization, explained how checks were cut to Cohen in 2017 and she testified that invoices over $10,000 had to be approved by Trump or one of his sons.
Sally Franklin , the senior vice president and executive managing editor for Penguin Random House publishing group, testified for 46 minutes . Prosecutors used her testimony to enter excerpts from Trump’s books into evidence.
Stormy Daniels, who's at the center of the hush money case, was on the stand for 6 hours and 10 minutes over two days of testimony. Daniels walked the jury through details about her alleged sexual encounter with Trump in 2006 and the $130,000 hush money payment from Trump's ex-attorney Michael Cohen shortly before the 2016 election . Trump attorney Susan Necheles hammered down on Daniels in cross-examination to establish some of the ways she gained publicity and money from her story going public.
Rebecca Manochio , a junior bookkeeper at the Trump Organization, testified for about 35 minutes. The prosecution used Manochio to submit invoices , documents and emails as evidence.

Tracey Menziez, the senior VP of production and creative operations for Harper Collins, testified in the Trump hush money criminal trial on May 9.

Tracey Menzies , the senior vice president of production and creative operations at Harper Collins, spoke about one of the books Donald Trump co-authored, “Think Big: Make It Happen in Business and Life,” by Trump and Bill Zanker and read excerpts from the book.
Madeleine Westerhout , a former personal assistant to Trump at the White House, detailed how the president preferred to work, his attention to detail and the reaction to the "Access Hollywood" tape.

Stormy Daniels finished her testimony in Trump’s hush money trial. Here’s what to know

From CNN's Elise Hammond

Stormy Daniels is cross examined by the defense on Thursday, May 9.

Donald Trump’s lawyers finished their cross-examination of Stormy Daniels on Thursday and spent most of the time trying to undermine her credibility by pointing out inconsistencies in her story.

In her more than 6 hours of testimony over two days, Daniels described her first meeting with Trump , the details of their alleged sexual encounter in 2006 and how the hush money payment unfolded years later. The defense tried to establish some of the ways the porn star gained publicity and money from her story going public.

The other witnesses on Thursday were a junior bookkeeper at the Trump Organization, an employee of Harper Collins and Trump’s former personal assistant at the White House.

Here’s what happened in court on Thursday:

Stormy Daniels on cross-examination:

Trump lawyer Susan Necheles pointed out that in a January 2018 statement , Daniels denied a sexual encounter with Trump. Later that same month, Daniels put out a second statement denying the relationship. She said she was pushed to sign the statement by Michael Cohen via attorney Keith Davidson.
Necheles asked Daniels if she eventually wanted to publicly announce she had sex with Trump. "No. Nobody would ever want to publicly say that. I wanted to publicly defend myself ," Daniels testified.
Necheles sought to establish examples of how Daniels benefitted from the story . A "60 Minutes" interview and appearances on CNN and "The View" brought Daniels publicity, Necheles said. Daniels argued her then-lawyer Michael Avenatti arranged her appearances.
Necheles challenged Daniels on her story, saying it "has changed a lot over the years," citing Daniels’ description of the floors in Trump’s hotel room. The Trump attorney also asked if Daniels fabricated the story about the encounter with Trump, which Daniels denied.

On redirect:

Prosecutor Susan Hoffinger went through Daniels' motivation for entering the non-disclosure agreement, including her fear for safety . While Daniels has made money with the Trump story, it has also cost her , Hoffinger said. Daniels said now she's had to hire security and move her daughter to a safe place to live, in addition to the money she owes Trump in attorney's fees.
Hoffinger asked, " Have you been telling lies about Mr. Trump or the truth about Mr. Trump?" Daniels responded, “The truth.”

Rebecca Manochio:

Manochio, who still works at the Trump Organization as a junior bookkeeper, said when Trump was in the White House, she would FedEx checks once a week, often 10 to 20 at a time. The checks were mailed back to the Trump Organization, signed by Trump , usually within a few days.
When she received the checks back from Washington, she would give them to Deb Tarasoff, who works in the accounting department and testified earlier in the trial.
Prosecutors used Manochio to submit documents into evidence that showed Trump's personal checks were facilitated in Washington, DC, by Trump Organization bodyguard Keith Schiller and then by Trump personal aid John McEntee once Schiller left. This is important because the crux of this case comes down to how the former president's team handled a hush money payment to Daniels.
On cross-examination, Manochio said she didn’t interact directly with Trump and she only sent him personal checks for his signature. She also testified that she also sent personal checks to Ivanka Trump .

Tracey Menzies

Menzies is the senior vice president of production and creative operations at Harper Collins . Testifying as a custodian of records for the publishing company, Menzies said.
Prosecutors read excerpts from the book "Think Big: Make it Happen in Business and Life" for the jury. Several of them were about Trump’s value of loyalty in his business. Other excerpts were about revenge .

Madeleine Westerhout

As the former director of Oval Office Operations, Westerhout was one of the chief gatekeepers to the president as his personal assistant.
When the 2016 “Access Hollywood” tape came out, Westerhout said she remembered it “rattling RNC leadership.” She testified that she recalled conversations about how to replace Trump on the presidential ticket, “if it came to that.” Later, she told the defense on cross-examination that Trump was not as concerned about the tape as those around him.
From Westerhout’s experience working with Trump, she said the former president was “ attentive to things that were brought to his attention." She also testified about Trump’s preferences — including that he did not use a computer or have an email address and preferred hard copies of documents.
She said she recalls that Trump was “very upset” by the Stormy Daniels story potentially coming out. Westerhout testified that Trump spoke to Cohen around that time.

Judge makes other rulings: Judge Juan Merchan denied the defense's motion for a mistrial. He said he disagrees with the Trump team's assertion that Daniels gave a new account in her testimony this week. He also denied a motion to modify the gag order to allow Trump to talk about Daniels.

Trump attacks judge in hush money trial after leaving court

Former President Donald Trump attacked the judge presiding over his hush money trial in New York after court adjourned on Thursday.

In the hallway, he called Judge Juan Merchan “totally corrupt” and “conflicted.”

“Take a look at his conflict, it’s a disgrace to the city of New York, to the state of New York and to the country,” Trump said.

It comes after Stormy Daniels finished her testimony. She was on the stand for more than 6 hours over two days, describing her first meeting with Trump and their sexual encounter in 2006.

Remember: The former president is not allowed to talk about Daniels because of a gag order that has been imposed. However, it does not prevent Trump from attacking Merchan or Manhattan District Attorney Alvin Bragg.

Court is adjourned

After issuing his ruling, Judge Juan Merchan dismissed the court until tomorrow morning.

"I’ll see you tomorrow at 9:30," he said.

Judge Merchan denies defense motion for a mistrial

Judge Juan Merchan has denied the defense's motion for a mistrial.

Merchan says he disagrees with the Trump team's assertion that Stormy Daniels gave a new account in her testimony this week.

Before the ruling, Mechan says the jurors have to decide who they believe in the case of the encounter between Donald Trump and Daniels.

He notes that the people do not have to prove the encounter happened but because the defense has called her credibility into question, prosecutors have to make an effort to show her story is credible to prove their case.

"The more specificity Ms. Daniels can provide about the encounter, the more the jury can weigh whether the encounter did occur and if so whether they choose to credit Ms. Daniels’ story," Merchan says.

There were "many times Ms. Necheles could have objected but didn't," the judge says.

"For some unexplained reason that I still don't understand" there was no objection to certain testimony cited in the motion for a mistrial and again today, Merchan says.

"Why on earth she wouldn't object to the mention of a condom, I don’t understand," Merchan says of Trump attorney Susan Necheles.

Trump leans back in his chair as judge knocks his legal team

Trump is leaning back and stretching as the judge knocks the defense for not objecting to more of Stormy Daniels' testimony.

Merchan has mentioned several portions of the proceedings he thinks Trump's lawyers could have objected to as he explains his ruling.

Prosecutor says "very salacious details" were omitted that he's willing to file under seal if necessary

Prosecutor Joshua Steinglass says there were "very salacious details" that were purposely omitted from Stormy Daniels' account, saying he's willing to make a sealed filing with those details if necessary.

Steinglass says the prosecution specifically chose not to ask questions in a way that would elicit some of those details, so as not to embarrass Trump.

For example, Steinglass notes that the judge sustained an objection to a question to Daniels about whether she "felt anything different" at the time of the alleged sexual encounter with Trump.

The prosecutor says Daniels would have testified that she felt the skin of a 60-year-old man, and that that was different for her as a 27-year-old woman at the time. Steinglass says that would've been corroborative of her allegations.

"We feel that we have very faithfully adhered to your honor's ruling," the prosecutor says, in summary.

Steinglass says the prosecution was never intending to call Karen McDougal as a witness

Prosecutor Joshua Steinglass confirms Karen McDougal — the model and actress who has said she was also paid to keep quiet about an affair with Trump — will not be called to take the stand.

"She was on our witness list, but we have never indicated an actual intention to call her," he says.

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BREAKING: Michael Cohen, who paid off Stormy Daniels, is expected to testify Monday at Trump’s hush money trial

2 skiers dead, 1 rescued after Utah avalanche

Clouds over snowy Lone Peak in the Wasatch Mountain Range by Salt Lake City, Utah.

Two missing skiers are dead and a third man was rescued after an avalanche Thursday near the Lone Peak Summit area in Utah's Wasatch Range, officials said.

Search-and-rescue crews had been looking throughout the day for the two missing men, ages 23 and 32, who have been confirmed dead, Greater Salt Lake Police Sgt. Aymee Race said.

The skiers' identities have not been released.

Emergency crews responded to the mountain at 10:50 a.m. local time for reports of an avalanche and three missing skiers, Race said.

The third skier was able to dig himself out after he became trapped and was taken to a local hospital, where he helped officials, she said.

Rescuers used a helicopter hoist to lift him off the mountain, NBC affiliate KSL of Salt Lake City reported. Salt Lake County Sheriff Rosie Rivera told the station she believes he is the one who made the initial emergency call.

The three men are friends who went up to ski together Thursday morning, Rivera said.

Officials believe that the group left early in the morning and that it took them five hours to reach the "very remote" area where they were skiing, Race said.

All three were wearing avalanche gear and were experienced with backcountry skiing, officials said, according to KSL.

The avalanche is thought to have occurred in the Big Willow area in Lone Peak Canyon, just off Little Cottonwood Canyon, according to KSL.

Rivera told the station that the avalanche area is “quite a ways back” on the mountain and that it was “going to take some time” to reach the two skiers but that they had been spotted.

Conditions were too dangerous to continue the search effort Thursday, and it has been postponed until 6 a.m. Friday, Race said.

Rebecca Cohen is a breaking news reporter for NBC News.

IMAGES

Lady’s Lovely Guide to 1 Day in Chester
Chester
10 Best Things to Do in Chester
20 choses à faire à Chester
The Top 10 Things to Do in Chester, England
THE 10 BEST Things to Do in Chester

COMMENTS

A 1 day Chester itinerary to help you plan the perfect day out in
Visit Chester Cathedral. One of the highlights during a day out in Chester is to visit Chester Cathedral. For starters entry is free so even if you are on a budget you can still visit. Although I should add that donations are welcomed. The Cathedral, was actually a Benedictine Abbey in 1093. In 1250 the Cathedral was rebuilt in a Gothic style.
How to Spend a Day in Chester: The Ultimate Itinerary
Alternative: 10.30am - Chester Walking Tour (90 minutes) 12.00pm - Lunch. One Day in Chester Itinerary - Afternoon. 01.00pm - Chester Rows. 02.00pm - Grosvenor Museum. 03.30pm - Afternoon Tea. 05.00pm - Grosvenor Park. 06.00pm - Historic Pub. When is the Best Time to Visit Chester.
How To Spend One Day In Chester (in 2022)
One day in Chester itinerary. Shopping in the Rows. The iconic Tudor styled buildings really give Chester that English feel. The Rows in Chester are a perfect example of this. This two-level galleried arcade was built in Victorian and Tudor style and is filled with amazing independent shops. ... Visit the Storyhouse. This cultural hub opened in ...
1-Day Chester Itinerary
Make the most out of your 1 day in Chester by exploring these top visited places: Chester Zoo, Chester City Walls, Porta Wine & Tapas Bar, and Covino ... I would certainly download the app and plan the visit. One area that pleasantly surprised me was the range of eating establishments. From quick tuck shops to a couple of really nice coffee houses.
Day in Chester: What to Do, See, Eat & Drink
Once you leave the river cruise go and visit the iconic Eastgate Clock, one of the most photographed clocks in the world. It's located atop the Eastgate Street wall and is a historic part of Chester's ancient walls. ... (Optional) Day Two: Chester Zoo. One of Chester's main attractions, Chester Zoo, would be hard to squeeze into the 1 day ...
Chester One Day Itinerary
The Cheshire Military Museum is a military museum in Chester, Cheshire, England. The museum covers the history of four British Army regiments connected with the County of Cheshire from 1685 onwards: the Cheshire Regiment, the Cheshire Yeomanry, the 3rd Carabiniers, the 5th Royal Inniskilling Dragoon Guards, and also the Eaton Hall Officer Cadet School.
Things to Do in Chester in One Day: Exploring One of England's Most
Where to stay in Chester. As I live only a 60-minute train journey from Chester and I had no plans to explore the city's nightlife on a Friday night on my own, I didn't factor in an overnight stay on this occasion. But I did my research on places to stay in Chester, should I visit again in the future with Stu or friends in tow.
How to Spend a Day in Chester
Over eight million people visit Chester each year, and a key reason for this is that it offers entertainment and activities for all ages and tastes. ... How to Spend a Day in Chester. Aug, 2023 ; ... Here you can also experience the hubbub of the city as residents and tourists intermingle in one of the country's most historic settings. Don ...
14 Things To Do In Chester On A Day Trip
By the time I got to Chester Market at the end of the day, the stalls have all closed. So I couldn't really grab anything. If shopping is one of your goals on day trips, you have to priortize them first. Otherwise, by the time you're done exploring the city and back, they would have closed. This is England. These markets close at 5pm.
England: What to do in Chester
One of the highlights of the church is the area of the cloisters and the inner garden where the beautiful statue "The Water of Life" by Stephen Broadbent is located. Address: St Werburgh St, Chester CH1 2DY, England. Schedules: Monday to Saturday from 9 am to 6 pm / Sunday from 1 pm to 4 pm. Entrance: free.
Visit Chester
Visit Chester! Its bewitching beauty and unique atmosphere make Chester one of Britain's most popular places for an unforgettable short break. The ancient city is a truly breathtaking experience. Each chapter of Chester's history is etched into the very fabric of the city. Well, you are walking where Roman Legionaires marched to war, Viking ...
Chester Travel Guide (with essential tips, itinerary & map)
Chester is one of England's most beautiful cities and can be easily reached by train in around 2 hours from London which makes it possible to plan a day trip to Chester. If you are considering spending one day in Chester or even a weekend in Chester ( staycation vacation ) our Chester guide contains all the information you need to plan your trip.
One Day in Chester
You can visit as a day trip from Liverpool (approximately 40 minutes) and from Manchester (approximately 1 hour 20 mins). If you are flying into the UK, you can fly to Manchester Airport or Liverpool John Lennon Airport. ... One day in Chester - Follow the above itinerary and you will not be disappointed. 48 Hours in Chester - In addition ...
8 Best Things to Do in Chester, England
8 Best Things to Do in Chester, England Or What to See in Chester in One Perfect Day. 1. Chester Cathedral. A thousand years old, Chester Cathedral is an unmissable sight in the city of Chester. If you don't have time to do anything else there, head straight to the cathedral for a substantial introduction to the medieval and modern history of ...
21 BEST Things To Do In Chester (2024 Guide)
Longer cruises (2 hours) run through the Duke of Westminster's estate nearby, running as far as the elegant Aldford iron bridge. One of the best things to do around Chester if you're in the area for a few days. Lunch at Chester Market. The popular eating area in Chester Market.
Medieval Chester Things To Do In 1 Day
Other Chester Things To Do & Attractions. Chester Zoo - Voted one the best in the world. (7th best on TripAdvisor). Grosvenor Park - 20 acres in the city centre, good place for a walk, rest or to take the kids. Grosvenor Museum - Roman artefacts and relics, plus watercolours by Louise Rayner.
15 Top-Rated Attractions & Things to Do in Chester
1. Take a Walk along Chester City Walls Chester City Walls . Built mostly of red sandstone, Chester's City Walls follow the even older Roman walls, except where they extend to the river to include Chester Castle.The complete circuit - the best preserved of its kind in Britain - is a nearly two-mile walk taking in the four main gates: Northgate, Eastgate, Bridgegate, and Watergate.
Chester Itineraries
Chester Itineraries. Want to come to Chester but don't know where to start? We've put together some handy itineraries for you to make planning your trip to Chester a breeze. Whether you are coming with your partner, family or friends, we've got the perfect itinerary to help you to make the most out of your visit to Chester.
The Top 10 Things to Do in Chester, England
Phone +44 1244 380280. Web Visit website. Chester Zoo, which opened in 1931, is one of the U.K.'s biggest zoos and a good addition to any family itinerary in Chester. There are over 35,000 animals to see during your visit, as well as some memorable gardens, and kids will love the Treetop Challenge adventure course.
Chester in One Day
The perfect visit to Chester should be well planned. Get to know the top attractions Chester has to offer with 3 great plans to choose from. Chester in 1 Day - 3 suggested itinerareries
A Day to Visit Chester
It is entirely possible to see the important sights in a day or two, with a little judicious planning. A good starting point is a walk, either guided or on one's own, around the city walls, the most complete circuit of Roman and medieval town wall's in Britain. Roman Chester was an important legionary fortress called Castra Deva, built in ...
Visit Chester
Chester Top Attractions in a Few Hours. see the best of Chester. Day 1. Peter I. Vardy. 10:00 Bishop Lloyd's House. . 4 mins. Amandajm. 11:35 Chester Cathedral.
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