Things to do in Chester
Chester, the historic county town of Cheshire near the Welsh border, was founded in 79 AD as a Roman fort named Deva Victrix. Today, it's a quaint old town famous for its well-preserved city walls, Roman ruins, medieval architecture, unique black-and-white half-timbered buildings, and various tourist attractions. Check out our list of Chester attractions to plan your visit!
Chester Zoo
What is it?
A huge zoo that has been consistently named one of the best in the country and in the world.
Why should you go?
Opened in 1931, Chester Zoo was famously designed by its founder as the first zoo without the traditional Victorian iron bars. Within its vast 128-acre territory, it hosts over 20,000 animals, as well as a variety of plants and gardens. There are lions and jaguars, Komodo dragons and tropical birds, penguins and red pandas, and the Aquarium with underwater species of all shapes, sizes, and colors. Children's playgrounds and kids-oriented activities are well-represented at the zoo. Grab the family, don't forget a picnic blanket, and prepare for hours of wholesome outdoor entertainment!
Specialization
Animals
Perfect for
A day out with the kids
A huge zoo that has been consistently named one of the best in the country and in the world.
Why should you go?
Opened in 1931, Chester Zoo was famously designed by its founder as the first zoo without the traditional Victorian iron bars. Within its vast 128-acre territory, it hosts over 20,000 animals, as well as a variety of plants and gardens. There are lions and jaguars, Komodo dragons and tropical birds, penguins and red pandas, and the Aquarium with underwater species of all shapes, sizes, and colors. Children's playgrounds and kids-oriented activities are well-represented at the zoo. Grab the family, don't forget a picnic blanket, and prepare for hours of wholesome outdoor entertainment!
Specialization
Animals
Perfect for
A day out with the kids
Chester City Walls
What is it?
The oldest, longest, and most complete ancient city walls in Britain that almost fully encompass the medieval city center.
Why should you go?
The construction of Chester City Walls as a defensive structure was started by the Romans almost 2,000 years ago. Over the centuries, the walls have been extended to completely encircle the old town. This elevated walkway is about 3 km long, with one break in the southwest section in front of County Hall, and offers a nice opportunity to explore the town's skyline. The walls include four major gates to the city - Northgate, Eastgate, Bridgegate, and Watergate — and a few medieval towers.
Specialization
Landmarks and ruins
Perfect for
A leisurely stroll
The oldest, longest, and most complete ancient city walls in Britain that almost fully encompass the medieval city center.
Why should you go?
The construction of Chester City Walls as a defensive structure was started by the Romans almost 2,000 years ago. Over the centuries, the walls have been extended to completely encircle the old town. This elevated walkway is about 3 km long, with one break in the southwest section in front of County Hall, and offers a nice opportunity to explore the town's skyline. The walls include four major gates to the city - Northgate, Eastgate, Bridgegate, and Watergate — and a few medieval towers.
Specialization
Landmarks and ruins
Perfect for
A leisurely stroll
The Rows
What is it?
A set of unique medieval-covered continuous walkways in the four main streets of Chester, with undercrofts below the street level.
Why should you go?
Occupying a number of historic black-and-white half-timbered buildings in the Old Town, the Rows feature shops, cafes, and other premises that are entered by steps and enveloped by galleries at the street level. Much of the area has been blocked or rebuilt over the years: about 20 stone undercrofts still exist that date back from the 13th or early 14th century, and a few above-ground timber structures. With its boutiques and independent shops, this historic quarter is a nice place for a walk, while the galleries come in handy when it's raining.
Specialization
Historic architecture
Perfect for
A walk and some shopping
A set of unique medieval-covered continuous walkways in the four main streets of Chester, with undercrofts below the street level.
Why should you go?
Occupying a number of historic black-and-white half-timbered buildings in the Old Town, the Rows feature shops, cafes, and other premises that are entered by steps and enveloped by galleries at the street level. Much of the area has been blocked or rebuilt over the years: about 20 stone undercrofts still exist that date back from the 13th or early 14th century, and a few above-ground timber structures. With its boutiques and independent shops, this historic quarter is a nice place for a walk, while the galleries come in handy when it's raining.
Specialization
Historic architecture
Perfect for
A walk and some shopping
Chester Canal (Shropshire Union Canal)
What is it?
A canalside trail perfect for walking, jogging, cycling, fishing, or birdwatching.
Why should you go?
The Shropshire Union Canal flows through the center of Chester and is a great place to explore the city on foot. Check out the imposing red sandstone 13th-century King Charles Tower that overlooks the waterway. Find the Bridge of Sighs that prisoners from the Northgate gaol used to cross the canal to receive the last rites in a chapel before the execution. Or just sit down, observe the barges and houseboats, ducks and seagulls, imagine what it's like to live on the water, and unwind. And should you feel thirsty after all that walking, the local pubs are ready to serve you a pint or two!
Specialization
Urban waterway
Perfect for
A moment of calm
A canalside trail perfect for walking, jogging, cycling, fishing, or birdwatching.
Why should you go?
The Shropshire Union Canal flows through the center of Chester and is a great place to explore the city on foot. Check out the imposing red sandstone 13th-century King Charles Tower that overlooks the waterway. Find the Bridge of Sighs that prisoners from the Northgate gaol used to cross the canal to receive the last rites in a chapel before the execution. Or just sit down, observe the barges and houseboats, ducks and seagulls, imagine what it's like to live on the water, and unwind. And should you feel thirsty after all that walking, the local pubs are ready to serve you a pint or two!
Specialization
Urban waterway
Perfect for
A moment of calm
Storyhouse
What is it?
A mixed-use cultural complex including two art theaters, a cinema, a library, a restaurant, and two bars, housed in a renovated Art Deco building.
Why should you go?
Located in a 1936 former Odeon cinema, Storyhouse is an award-winning project that has enriched Chester's cultural life and created an opportunity to find fun things to do if you've already had your share of Roman ruins. The state-of-the-art facility honors the legacy of the old Odeon while being technologically advanced and offering a wide range of entertainment options. Film and theater, workshops, classes, open mic events, and all sorts of activities and initiatives — from a bereavement help point to a Scrabble club — can be found here. Plus, the views from Garret bar's floor-to-ceiling windows are really nice!
Specialization
Arts and culture
Perfect for
A day out with your kids and/or partner
A mixed-use cultural complex including two art theaters, a cinema, a library, a restaurant, and two bars, housed in a renovated Art Deco building.
Why should you go?
Located in a 1936 former Odeon cinema, Storyhouse is an award-winning project that has enriched Chester's cultural life and created an opportunity to find fun things to do if you've already had your share of Roman ruins. The state-of-the-art facility honors the legacy of the old Odeon while being technologically advanced and offering a wide range of entertainment options. Film and theater, workshops, classes, open mic events, and all sorts of activities and initiatives — from a bereavement help point to a Scrabble club — can be found here. Plus, the views from Garret bar's floor-to-ceiling windows are really nice!
Specialization
Arts and culture
Perfect for
A day out with your kids and/or partner
@librarylandproject
The Cheese Shop
What is it?
A little artisanal shop in downtown Chester that has been selling cheese since 1985.
Why should you go?
This independent cheese shop is a little piece of heaven for anyone fond of cheese. Over 200 cow, goat, and ewe cheeses are available on its shelves, pasteurized, unpasteurized, and vegetarian — with a strong focus on local produce. We particularly fancy Bournes Cheshire (made on a local farm following a recipe from 1845), and Crabtree (Alpine style, with a whiff of autumn crabapples eaten by the cows). Accompaniments such as chutneys, jellies, and crackers are well represented, too. Finally, cheese-tasting events are an experience not to be missed by any foodie.
Specialization
Cheese (and anything that goes well with cheese)
Perfect for
Turophiles of all ages and those in search of edible souvenirs
A little artisanal shop in downtown Chester that has been selling cheese since 1985.
Why should you go?
This independent cheese shop is a little piece of heaven for anyone fond of cheese. Over 200 cow, goat, and ewe cheeses are available on its shelves, pasteurized, unpasteurized, and vegetarian — with a strong focus on local produce. We particularly fancy Bournes Cheshire (made on a local farm following a recipe from 1845), and Crabtree (Alpine style, with a whiff of autumn crabapples eaten by the cows). Accompaniments such as chutneys, jellies, and crackers are well represented, too. Finally, cheese-tasting events are an experience not to be missed by any foodie.
Specialization
Cheese (and anything that goes well with cheese)
Perfect for
Turophiles of all ages and those in search of edible souvenirs
@hortonandbroster
Chester Roman Amphitheatre
What is it?
The largest Roman amphitheater so far unearthed in Britain, dating back to the 1st century.
Why should you go?
As you pass through the city center, this ancient amphitheater is well worth a visit (plus, it's free). Similar to those found in continental Europe, this structure fell into disuse after the Romans left Britain, had buildings constructed over it and was only uncovered in 1929. Today, just the northern part of the amphitheater is exposed. Excavation results demonstrate that the arena was used for gladiator fights, as well as boxing, bull-baiting, and cockfighting. The complex had seating for up to 8,000 people, food stands, dungeons, and a shrine to Nemesis.
Specialization
Historic sites and ruins
Perfect for
Part of a sightseeing trip to Chester's old town
The largest Roman amphitheater so far unearthed in Britain, dating back to the 1st century.
Why should you go?
As you pass through the city center, this ancient amphitheater is well worth a visit (plus, it's free). Similar to those found in continental Europe, this structure fell into disuse after the Romans left Britain, had buildings constructed over it and was only uncovered in 1929. Today, just the northern part of the amphitheater is exposed. Excavation results demonstrate that the arena was used for gladiator fights, as well as boxing, bull-baiting, and cockfighting. The complex had seating for up to 8,000 people, food stands, dungeons, and a shrine to Nemesis.
Specialization
Historic sites and ruins
Perfect for
Part of a sightseeing trip to Chester's old town
Chester Cathedral
What is it?
A centuries-old Church of England cathedral that dates back to the 10th century and incorporates all the major styles of English medieval architecture.
Why should you go?
Founded as the abbey church of a Benedictine monastery in 1092 on the site of an earlier Christian basilica, and a cathedral in 1541, the Chester Cathedral has been rebuilt and expanded throughout the centuries. Its buildings feature Norman, Gothic, Perpendicular, and Tudor styles. The Central Tower boasts magnificent views of one city, two countries, and five counties — just climb the 216 steps! The Cathedral often hosts events including exhibitions, organ recitals and concerts, a kids' singing club, and regular services as a functioning church.
Specialization
Religious architecture and site of worship
Perfect for
History buffs
A centuries-old Church of England cathedral that dates back to the 10th century and incorporates all the major styles of English medieval architecture.
Why should you go?
Founded as the abbey church of a Benedictine monastery in 1092 on the site of an earlier Christian basilica, and a cathedral in 1541, the Chester Cathedral has been rebuilt and expanded throughout the centuries. Its buildings feature Norman, Gothic, Perpendicular, and Tudor styles. The Central Tower boasts magnificent views of one city, two countries, and five counties — just climb the 216 steps! The Cathedral often hosts events including exhibitions, organ recitals and concerts, a kids' singing club, and regular services as a functioning church.
Specialization
Religious architecture and site of worship
Perfect for
History buffs
Bear & Billet pub
What is it?
A 17th-century pub housed in a timber-framed Grade I-listed building.
Why should you go?
Set in a traditional black-and-white timber house, this traditional inn dates back to 1664. It was built as the townhouse of the Earls of Shrewsbury who held control of the nearby Bridgegate, and its name is inspired by the heraldic device of the Earls. The place became an inn in the 18th century. In terms of more recent history, John Lennon's grandmother was born in the pub in 1873.
Spread over three jettied floors, the pub has lovely city walls views and serves traditional food, including fish & chips, pies, and a Sunday roast. Of course, it is also said to be haunted — as pretty much any old British pub.
Specialization
Historic architecture and pubs
Perfect for
A few pints with your mates or a Sunday lunch with the family
A 17th-century pub housed in a timber-framed Grade I-listed building.
Why should you go?
Set in a traditional black-and-white timber house, this traditional inn dates back to 1664. It was built as the townhouse of the Earls of Shrewsbury who held control of the nearby Bridgegate, and its name is inspired by the heraldic device of the Earls. The place became an inn in the 18th century. In terms of more recent history, John Lennon's grandmother was born in the pub in 1873.
Spread over three jettied floors, the pub has lovely city walls views and serves traditional food, including fish & chips, pies, and a Sunday roast. Of course, it is also said to be haunted — as pretty much any old British pub.
Specialization
Historic architecture and pubs
Perfect for
A few pints with your mates or a Sunday lunch with the family
@kathy_wright_69
The Roman Gardens
What is it?
Charming public gardens by the city walls with some Roman ruins.
Why should you go?
One of the easiest places to visit in Chester when you're wandering about the old town, the Roman Gardens are a nice little ruin with an air of tranquility about it. The area was established in 1949 to display some of the elements of Roman architecture found during the 19th-century excavations of the baths and fortresses. The gardens also incorporate some interesting contemporary mosaics. Make sure to pay attention to the city wall in this area: part of it was destroyed by a cannon during the Civil War of 1645 and repaired later.
Specialization
Ruins and gardens
Perfect for
A place to chill for a minute
Charming public gardens by the city walls with some Roman ruins.
Why should you go?
One of the easiest places to visit in Chester when you're wandering about the old town, the Roman Gardens are a nice little ruin with an air of tranquility about it. The area was established in 1949 to display some of the elements of Roman architecture found during the 19th-century excavations of the baths and fortresses. The gardens also incorporate some interesting contemporary mosaics. Make sure to pay attention to the city wall in this area: part of it was destroyed by a cannon during the Civil War of 1645 and repaired later.
Specialization
Ruins and gardens
Perfect for
A place to chill for a minute
Grosvenor Museum
What is it?
A local museum with free entry and a focus on Chester's history from the Roman times to the 20th century and natural history.
Why should you go?
Established in 1886, the Museum occupies a red-brick building in free Renaissance style. Inside, you will find a very decent collection of Roman artifacts, tombstones found in the 19th century that were being reused in the city walls, as well as coins, pottery, glass, and metalwork. There's a fine collection of Chester hallmarked silver, some paintings and sculptures, and a social history collection that showcases what living conditions looked like during major periods of British history.
Specialization
History and natural history
Perfect for
A couple of hours with the kids — the exhibition is pretty educational
A local museum with free entry and a focus on Chester's history from the Roman times to the 20th century and natural history.
Why should you go?
Established in 1886, the Museum occupies a red-brick building in free Renaissance style. Inside, you will find a very decent collection of Roman artifacts, tombstones found in the 19th century that were being reused in the city walls, as well as coins, pottery, glass, and metalwork. There's a fine collection of Chester hallmarked silver, some paintings and sculptures, and a social history collection that showcases what living conditions looked like during major periods of British history.
Specialization
History and natural history
Perfect for
A couple of hours with the kids — the exhibition is pretty educational
@kayleighsphotography.uk
Grosvenor Park
What is it?
An ornamental Victorian park just outside the city walls, overlooking the River Dee, with historic structures and a miniature railway.
Why should you go?
When the sun's out, but you've seen the major landmarks and don't know what to do in Chester, head straight to this charming mid-19th-century park.
In addition to vibrant flower beds, manicured lawns, footpaths, and trees, the space has a historic well, some statues, and three medieval arches. The Lodge Cafe is housed in a beautiful black-and-white half-timbered house. During the summer, there's a pretty awesome little open-air theater. Kids particularly enjoy the miniature railway that runs around a 0.4 km circuit.
Our most important tip: take some nuts with you to feed the local squirrels!
Specialization
Urban parks
Perfect for
Some quality time with the children (or without them)
An ornamental Victorian park just outside the city walls, overlooking the River Dee, with historic structures and a miniature railway.
Why should you go?
When the sun's out, but you've seen the major landmarks and don't know what to do in Chester, head straight to this charming mid-19th-century park.
In addition to vibrant flower beds, manicured lawns, footpaths, and trees, the space has a historic well, some statues, and three medieval arches. The Lodge Cafe is housed in a beautiful black-and-white half-timbered house. During the summer, there's a pretty awesome little open-air theater. Kids particularly enjoy the miniature railway that runs around a 0.4 km circuit.
Our most important tip: take some nuts with you to feed the local squirrels!
Specialization
Urban parks
Perfect for
Some quality time with the children (or without them)
Cheshire Military Museum
What is it?
A military museum based in Chester Castle's former barrack, showcasing the history of local regiments from the 17th century onwards.
Why should you go?
This informative and well-organized exhibition does a great job of presenting the history of the local military. Part of it is devoted to the actual castle, which was the training depot of the Cheshire Regiment from 1881 to 1942. Other sections include artifacts related to the army history starting from the 17th century to the present day, including uniforms, weapons, medals, helmets, models, and whatnot. A replica of a WWI trench and the legendary Vickers machine gun from WWII are among the highlights of the collection. Modern armed forces, of course, also deserve mention.
Specialization
Local military history
Perfect for
Weapon and military enthusiasts
A military museum based in Chester Castle's former barrack, showcasing the history of local regiments from the 17th century onwards.
Why should you go?
This informative and well-organized exhibition does a great job of presenting the history of the local military. Part of it is devoted to the actual castle, which was the training depot of the Cheshire Regiment from 1881 to 1942. Other sections include artifacts related to the army history starting from the 17th century to the present day, including uniforms, weapons, medals, helmets, models, and whatnot. A replica of a WWI trench and the legendary Vickers machine gun from WWII are among the highlights of the collection. Modern armed forces, of course, also deserve mention.
Specialization
Local military history
Perfect for
Weapon and military enthusiasts
@cheshiremilitarymuseum
St. John The Baptist's Church
What is it?
A fine example of the city's 11th-12th century architecture, and formerly Chester's cathedral.
Why should you go?
The Church of St John the Baptist used to be the Cathedral and Collegiate Church of Chester from 1075 until the Reformation in 1541. Sitting outside the city walls on a cliff overlooking the river, this sandstone edifice combines traces of Norman architecture and English Gothic style. The church's organ was built as a temporary instrument for the coronation of Queen Victoria in Westminster Abbey in 1838 and later moved to Chester by barge. Outside, to the east of the church, you can find some picturesque ruins of the former chapel and a few tombstones.
Specialization
Religious architecture and ruins
Perfect for
A stroll by the river
A fine example of the city's 11th-12th century architecture, and formerly Chester's cathedral.
Why should you go?
The Church of St John the Baptist used to be the Cathedral and Collegiate Church of Chester from 1075 until the Reformation in 1541. Sitting outside the city walls on a cliff overlooking the river, this sandstone edifice combines traces of Norman architecture and English Gothic style. The church's organ was built as a temporary instrument for the coronation of Queen Victoria in Westminster Abbey in 1838 and later moved to Chester by barge. Outside, to the east of the church, you can find some picturesque ruins of the former chapel and a few tombstones.
Specialization
Religious architecture and ruins
Perfect for
A stroll by the river
@popclassic59
Eastgate Clock
What is it?
The second most photographed clock in England after Big Ben, on top of the gate through the city walls.
Why should you go?
Installed in 1899 to celebrate the diamond jubilee of Queen Victoria that had taken place two years earlier, the clock has become one of the most recognizable symbols of Chester. The ornate structure is carried by openwork iron pylons and has a clock face with inscriptions that read '1897'and 'VR' on each of its four sides. The clock sits atop Eastgate — a three-arched red sandstone structure built in 1768 on the site of the original Roman entrance to the city and part of the city walls carrying the historic walkway.
Specialization
Landmark
Perfect for
Snapping a photo, followed by spending the afternoon in one of the pubs in the vicinity
The second most photographed clock in England after Big Ben, on top of the gate through the city walls.
Why should you go?
Installed in 1899 to celebrate the diamond jubilee of Queen Victoria that had taken place two years earlier, the clock has become one of the most recognizable symbols of Chester. The ornate structure is carried by openwork iron pylons and has a clock face with inscriptions that read '1897'and 'VR' on each of its four sides. The clock sits atop Eastgate — a three-arched red sandstone structure built in 1768 on the site of the original Roman entrance to the city and part of the city walls carrying the historic walkway.
Specialization
Landmark
Perfect for
Snapping a photo, followed by spending the afternoon in one of the pubs in the vicinity
Sick To Death attraction
What is it?
An interactive multi-sensory history of medicine attraction in Chester city center, replete with gross smells and graphic sights.
Why should you go?
Looking for some fun things to do in Chester? Well, look no further, for Sick to Death offers to explore the gory history of sickness and medicine in the most exciting and educational manner. Located in a former atmospheric church on the Rows, this attraction is a self-guided experience with some jump scares. Explore the Apothecary where magic and science collide, learn about the importance of autopsies, approach the Wall of Quackery, examine the pestilence-ridden Diagnosis Alley, and meet the Grim Reaper and the Plague Doctor. The highlight of the place? Clearly, the toilet seat gallery.
Specialization
Interactive museum
Perfect for
Not-too-squeamish adults and slightly older kids
An interactive multi-sensory history of medicine attraction in Chester city center, replete with gross smells and graphic sights.
Why should you go?
Looking for some fun things to do in Chester? Well, look no further, for Sick to Death offers to explore the gory history of sickness and medicine in the most exciting and educational manner. Located in a former atmospheric church on the Rows, this attraction is a self-guided experience with some jump scares. Explore the Apothecary where magic and science collide, learn about the importance of autopsies, approach the Wall of Quackery, examine the pestilence-ridden Diagnosis Alley, and meet the Grim Reaper and the Plague Doctor. The highlight of the place? Clearly, the toilet seat gallery.
Specialization
Interactive museum
Perfect for
Not-too-squeamish adults and slightly older kids
@halquinsmirks
Watergate Street Gallery
What is it?
A friendly contemporary art gallery located on the historic Watergate Street lined with black-and-white half-timbered houses.
Why should you go?
Opened in 1996, the Watergate Street Gallery features hundreds of works by local, national, and international artists, including painters Jack Vettriano and Leigh Lambert, famous cartoonist and illustrator Quentin Blake, and many more. Paintings, etchings, screenprints and signed limited editions, mixed media, and pop art pieces — come explore them at the exhibition, or even buy something for yourself. The gallery has nice and knowledgeable staff, and occasionally hosts art-related events, some of which include the consumption of prosecco.
Specialization
Contemporary art
Perfect for
Those tired of historical things to see in Chester
A friendly contemporary art gallery located on the historic Watergate Street lined with black-and-white half-timbered houses.
Why should you go?
Opened in 1996, the Watergate Street Gallery features hundreds of works by local, national, and international artists, including painters Jack Vettriano and Leigh Lambert, famous cartoonist and illustrator Quentin Blake, and many more. Paintings, etchings, screenprints and signed limited editions, mixed media, and pop art pieces — come explore them at the exhibition, or even buy something for yourself. The gallery has nice and knowledgeable staff, and occasionally hosts art-related events, some of which include the consumption of prosecco.
Specialization
Contemporary art
Perfect for
Those tired of historical things to see in Chester
@watergatestreet_art
Chester Racecourse
What is it?
The oldest still-operating racecourse in the world, as officially recognized by the Guinness Book of World Records.
Why should you go?
Dating back to 1539, Chester Racecourse (also known as the Roodee) is an award-winning establishment that operates 365 days a year, with over 330,000 visitors annually. It lies on the banks of the river Dee, where a Roman harbor was once located: some of the anchor stones can still be seen at the current site. The course is about 1.6 km long, flat, and raced anti-clockwise. Races can actually be seen for free from the city walls if you can't be bothered to pay for the ticket and follow the dress code.
Specialization
Open-air entertainment
Perfect for
Fans of horses
The oldest still-operating racecourse in the world, as officially recognized by the Guinness Book of World Records.
Why should you go?
Dating back to 1539, Chester Racecourse (also known as the Roodee) is an award-winning establishment that operates 365 days a year, with over 330,000 visitors annually. It lies on the banks of the river Dee, where a Roman harbor was once located: some of the anchor stones can still be seen at the current site. The course is about 1.6 km long, flat, and raced anti-clockwise. Races can actually be seen for free from the city walls if you can't be bothered to pay for the ticket and follow the dress code.
Specialization
Open-air entertainment
Perfect for
Fans of horses
The Antiques Shop
What is it?
A real treasure trove of collectibles and bric-a-bracs located within the Rows.
Why should you go?
Established in 1989 and based in one of the most interesting buildings on Watergate Street, the Antiques Shop has been run by the same owner for over 30 years and has amassed an impressive collection of various gems. Antique furniture, phones, pewter, maps, prints, typewriters, wooden crates, baskets, and vintage suitcases — the list can go on and on. If you're lucky, you'll get a chance to listen to a little lecture by the owner about the provenance and application of individual pieces. Totally the place to get your souvenirs when you travel to Chester!
Specialization
Antique shop
Perfect for
Collectors
A real treasure trove of collectibles and bric-a-bracs located within the Rows.
Why should you go?
Established in 1989 and based in one of the most interesting buildings on Watergate Street, the Antiques Shop has been run by the same owner for over 30 years and has amassed an impressive collection of various gems. Antique furniture, phones, pewter, maps, prints, typewriters, wooden crates, baskets, and vintage suitcases — the list can go on and on. If you're lucky, you'll get a chance to listen to a little lecture by the owner about the provenance and application of individual pieces. Totally the place to get your souvenirs when you travel to Chester!
Specialization
Antique shop
Perfect for
Collectors
@antiqueschester
The Bluebell
What is it?
Arguably, the oldest surviving medieval house in Chester - and (somewhat counterintuitively) a nice tapas bar!
Why should you go?
What's one of the best things to do in a historic little town like Chester? We say, put your feet up after a long day of exploring and grab a pint with some food - but do it somewhere steeped in history. The Bluebell is one of the best places to do so: the building dates back to the 15th century (while parts of it, allegedly, are as old as the 11th century). It is the last remaining part of the now-vanished 12th-century Lorimer's Row and has been an inn, a stagecoach ticket office, a barber's shop, a soda fountain bar, a retail shop, and an antique dealer's — until it was restored to its original role. A resident ghost is, of course, included!
Specialization
Food and booze — and historic architecture
Perfect for
Any hungry visitor
Arguably, the oldest surviving medieval house in Chester - and (somewhat counterintuitively) a nice tapas bar!
Why should you go?
What's one of the best things to do in a historic little town like Chester? We say, put your feet up after a long day of exploring and grab a pint with some food - but do it somewhere steeped in history. The Bluebell is one of the best places to do so: the building dates back to the 15th century (while parts of it, allegedly, are as old as the 11th century). It is the last remaining part of the now-vanished 12th-century Lorimer's Row and has been an inn, a stagecoach ticket office, a barber's shop, a soda fountain bar, a retail shop, and an antique dealer's — until it was restored to its original role. A resident ghost is, of course, included!
Specialization
Food and booze — and historic architecture
Perfect for
Any hungry visitor
@bluebell1494
FAQ
- 1What are the must-see attractions to visit in Chester?
- Chester Zoo
- Chester City Walls
- The Rows
- The Roman Gardens
- Eastgate Clock
- 2What are the best things to do in Chester with kids?
- Chester Zoo
- Sick To Death attraction
- Grosvenor Park
- Deva Roman Discovery Centre
- Chester Military Museum
- Chester in Lego
- 3What are the best outdoor activities in Chester?
- Chester Zoo
- Chester Canal
- Chester City Walls
- Grosvenor Park
- St. John The Baptist's Church and its surroundings
- The Rows
- 4What are the best indoor activities in Chester?
- Grosvenor Museum
- Chester Cathedral
- Bear & Billet pub
- Chester Military Museum
- Storyhouse
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