C

hester is a romantic city. Cruise along the River Dee or watch the action from a riverside café, wander the compact city, shop in the historic Rows, walk along the medieval walls and you’ll see what we mean. And when you’ve finished soaking up the city’s atmosphere, there’s the stunning scenery, historic sites and gastro-pubs of Cheshire to explore.

History and Heritage
Built almost 2,000 years ago, the Fortress Dewa now lies buried beneath Chester but thankfully the Dewa Roman Experience uses archaeological finds to bring the period to life, smells and all. Get hands-on with the region’s rich history at the Grosvenor Museum or walk Chester’s medieval walls for a unique view over the historic city. The National Waterways Museum at Ellesmere Port provides a fascinating insight into the Industrial Revolution.

Arts and Culture
The Watergate Street Gallery in Chester is a great place to see the work of local and international artists, as well as buy your very own piece of art. For a blast of country air and some colourful sculptures complete the trail at Norton Priory . And when the sun goes down, head over to the Pyramid & Parr Hall in Warrington for the very best in comedy and music.

Must See Attractions
Everyone loves a good cathedral and with stained glass, Norman arches, Gothic flourishes, and the medieval shrine of St. Werburgh, they don’t come much better than Chester’s. Kick back with a ChesterBoat river cruise or climb to the summit of Beeston Castle in Tarporley for views of up to eight counties - there are bat caves and historical re-enactments to enjoy as well.

Food and Drink
Watch all the action on the river unfold from the delightfully retro Blue Moon Café or look out over Chester Racecourse and enjoy an a la carte of modern British cuisine at the glass-fronted Restaurant 1539. Simon Radley at The Chester Grosvenor delivers Michelin-starred finery and The Alderley Restaurant does fine-dining Cheshire-stylee. Wash it all down with locally-brewed Spitting Feathers’ ale at The Brewery Tap in Chester.

Shopping
Over 700 years ago some smart medieval shopaholics pretty much invented the shopping mall with the two-tiered arcades of The Rows . Today, these historic buildings are packed with independent retailers and atmosphere. Continue your retail therapy at Grosvenor Shopping Centre or in the historic Market Hall where you can barter for a real bargain.

Key Events
Kick start your summer with Chestival where the streets, buildings and parks of the city come alive with a month of free family fun by day and grown-up events by night. The Chester Summer Music Festival mixes great choral works and solo voices for your aural pleasure whereas the Literature Festival mixes metaphors and megastars from the world of words each October.

Family Fun
Just wait till you hear the racket made by the gibbons and orangutans at Chester Zoo – it will make the shouts of the kids as they meet the 7000 other animals seem like whispers. Enjoy the sights, sounds and smells of Roman Chester at the Dewa Roman Experience or let the little ones try and out stare a three metre Sand Tiger shark from the Blue Planet Aquarium ’s underwater walkway.