Sian Victoria © - Eastgate Clock, Chester

How to spend a day visiting Chester – Places to go

Sitting on the River Dee in the Northwest of England is the quaint cathedral city of Chester. You may find yourself asking - well, is Chester worth visiting? Attracting tourists in their thousands from far and wide, the city is a popular spot to visit, and for good reason.

Boasting a rich history and heritage, stretching back to the Roman and Medieval eras, the city is home to some of the most enthralling historic buildings in England. What’s Chester most known for? Well, from city walls built by the Romans nearly 2000 years ago encompassing the city, to a magnificent Roman amphitheatre and the oldest racecourse in England, Chester could be considered one of the best cities to visit in England.

To answer the question ‘Is there a lot to do in Chester’ and ‘How do I spend a day in Chester’ all you need to do is read through this handpicked guide of the city compiling some of the best attractions and sights in Chester.

When you next find yourself eager to explore a new part of England, this city isn’t one you should pass up. With so much authentic history and beautiful sights on offer, you won’t forget this trip any time soon. So, carry on reading and consider a visit to Cheshire on your next city getaway.

Places to visit in Chester

So, here are just a few of the top-rated tourist attractions, historic sites, landmarks, and points of interest to see when you visit Chester. As well as the Architectural Buildings to admire while you explore the city’s streets.

1. Visit Chester Cathedral, a piece of Medieval history

Built back in 1092, this cathedral stands tall today to transport you back in time. Existing as a Benedictine Abbey upon its opening, the cathedral has been used as a place of worship for centuries.

Visit the cathedral and you’ll be able to spot signs of its beautiful historical architecture. You’ll notice a Norman-style church and tower, but also examples of Gothic architecture across the building to evidence when it was rebuilt in the 13th century. From its large stained-glass windows, vaulted ceilings and arches, this ecclesial and distinctive architecture makes the Cathedral even more fascinating.

Aside from the compelling architecture and design choices that this historic cathedral boasts, there’s so much to see and do here. As well as traditional worship, the cathedral also acts as a stunning venue for concerts and exhibitions. Entry is free but donations are encouraged – so why not visit this incredible piece of history?

Sian Victoria © - Grosvenor Shopping Centre, Chester

2. Wander Chester Rows

The Chester Rows refer to a set of distinctive structures within the city centre. Made up of carefully preserved half-timbered galleries, these rows line Chester’s main streets and form some of England’s most unique shopfronts.

Although some of the buildings were reconstructed in the Victorian era, many still represent the beautiful, authentic architecture of the 13th century – notably, the Three Old Arches in Chester’s Bridge Street.

Intertwining the past with the present, the rows allow you to go on a shopping spree or have a spot of lunch in a quaint café while you take in the beauty of these medieval, Tudor-style galleries. There’s nowhere else quite like this in the country.

3. Stroll along the River Dee

The charming city of Chester is located on the river Dee, a picturesque river that stretches for 81 miles and flows through both England and Wales. Cutting through Chester itself, visitors can stroll alongside the riverbanks and take in the beauty of the natural surroundings.

Whether you just want to have a peaceful walk along the river or try something else, there are plenty of options. The “Groves” sits off the riverbank, a promenade decked out with cafes, restaurants and even a bandstand to ensure even when you’re taking a break to sit down, you’re still enjoying everything the city has to offer.

Visiting with kids or, perhaps you just fancy doing something fun? You can hire a motorboat or pedalo to travel along the stunning River Dee. Perfect for a sunny afternoon, the river makes Chester all the more magnificent.

4. Eastgate Clock

Eastgate is the main shopping street in Chester, made up of all the main retail outlets and quaint cafes and restaurants for you to peruse when you visit. However, this is also where you’ll find the iconic Eastgate Clock.

Constructed on the incredible Roman city walls, this clock was used to represent the original entrance to Chester when it was built as a Roman fortress. In recent years, reconstructions mean the clock we see today dates to the Victorian era, with the clock face only being added in 1899 and the gate in the late 18th century.

This three-arched structure and turret clock tower will immediately capture your attention when strolling the city’s streets and makes for a perfect photo opportunity to enjoy from below as well as up close when you walk across the miniature bridge located on this popular high street.

Sian Victoria © - Views from Eastgate Clock, Chester

5. Grosvenor Park

A perfect way to have a break from exploring the historical sights of the city is to head over to Grosvenor Park and have a relaxing stroll amongst the beautiful greenery. Overlooking the River Dee, this Victorian park stretches across 20 acres of land and dates to 1867.

Boasting enormous lawns, a picturesque Roman Garden, ornamental flower beds and an array of walking paths, there’s so much to see here. If you’re visiting with kids, there’s a fun miniature railway sure to entertain them. Head on over to the park and take in the beautiful natural scenery on a warm afternoon before sitting down for a bite to eat at the on-site Lodge Café.

After you’ve taken in the beauty of Grosvenor Park, some steps lead down to the river Dee and the stunning historic suspension bridge, known as Queens Park Bridge and originally built in 1852.

6. Chester Roman Gardens

The Roman Gardens can be found just outside of the city walls and couldn’t be more charming. Built-in 1949, these embellished gardens stretch to the river Dee and are made up of an array of Roman building fragments and remains that capture the true history of the city over 2000 years ago.

Boasting these carefully preserved pieces of excavated fortresses and recovered historical pieces, the gardens are one of the best ways for you to understand the history of the city and to see the foundations Chester was built upon.

Stroll along the gardens, taking in the magnificent sights and make sure to take some pictures of these incredible fragments of history.

7. St John the Baptist's Church

St John the Baptist's Church is the most historic church within Chester, this structure dates back to the 11th century and was built by the Anglo-Saxons. Still existing today, the church represents some of the best examples of authentic medieval architecture.

Evidencing the transitions within architecture at the time of its construction, the church boasts traces of Romanesque, Gothic and Norman architecture. From traditional Norman pillars and arches and piers in the nave to Gothic stained-glass windows, you’ll be in awe of the beauty of this church.

If you’re a history buff or just enjoy touring the sights of a city, this church and its captivating architecture are not to be missed when visiting Chester.

Sian Victoria © - Chester shopping centre

8. Chester City Walls

Perhaps the most iconic landmark within Chester is its city walls. Constructed to protect the city when it was established as a fortress by the Romans between 70 and 80 CE, the walls encompass the city and stretch for around 2 miles.

Although originally built an impressive 2000 years ago, the walls were extended in the Anglo-Saxon period, making the walls even more historically enchanting. One of the best ways to explore the city is by walking along the city walls, offering incredible views of Chester and its sights throughout a 50-minute walk.

Considered the oldest historic defensive structure within the entirety of Britain, tour the stunning gates and towers across the walk and step back in time to see the city at its foundations.

9. Chester Roman Amphitheatre

Take in even more of Chester’s rich and decorated history and heritage by visiting the Roman Amphitheatre. Built around 86 AD, this structure could house around 7,000 spectators back when it was first opened.

Historically, this amphitheatre was the oldest in Britain. Although only remains can be seen today, this monument honours the foundations of the city as a Roman settlement. A perfect spot to visit and stroll around imagining its vibrant history, you can even watch a military re-enactment at the amphitheatre during the summer.

Following a recent excavation, findings at the site of the amphitheatre can be found in the Grosvenor Museum. Visit the museum for free (donations are welcome) and see for yourself the magnificent Roman remains and historical fragments that represent the Roman occupation of the city.

10. Admire Chester Town Hall and visit the Forum Shopping Centre

Chester Town Hall is another incredible example of the city’s stunning historical architecture. Located in the heart of the city centre, this establishment is considered one of Chester’s most significant landmarks.

Built-in the Gothic-Revival architectural style, the town hall boasts pointed arches, large decorative windows across its façade and a distinctive clock tower. Pay a visit to the beautiful structure and take in its picturesque elements for yourself.

After you’ve admired the beauty of Chester Town Hall, pop on over to the Forum Shopping Centre, adjacent to the town hall. Do a spot of shopping within the contemporary glass-roofed arcade structure, before heading back out to take in more of Chester’s charming attractions.

Sian Victoria © - Chester, Werburgh St near Cathedral

To conclude

There we have it – a compilation of some of Chester’s most iconic attractions and sights that certainly shouldn’t be missed if you plan a visit to the quaint city. There’s no shortage of things to see and do within the historic city – why not consider visiting and seeing for yourself?

These places to visit in Chester are free, but there is plenty of other unique experiences to book in Chester such as afternoon tea, dining, and boat trips. And there are also sightseeing tour guides to book in Chester if you want to discover the city’s hidden gems and history from a local perspective.

If you do decide this is a city, you’d be keen to explore, check out my DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel & Spa Chester Review as a luxury 4-star accommodation for you to book during your stay.

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