Eight must-do Activities to do while in Chester.

Chester, a city steeped in history, stunning Roman walls, medieval architecture, and a picturesque riverside.
Chester is a historic city in northwest England, renowned for its well-preserved Roman walls, medieval buildings, and unique shopping galleries known as the Rows. Nestled along the River Dee, it offers a blend of ancient charm and modern attractions, making it a popular tourist destination; this page will discuss eight activities to do while in Chester.

Foregate Street
A part of Chester’s historic layout is Foregate Street; from an eye-level view, Foregate Street may appear like any other bustling high street, filled with shops and everyday activity. However, taking a higher look will reveal the area’s rich and fascinating past, with impressive architecture that reflects the city’s history. From charming, centuries-old buildings to elegant facades, the street offers a glimpse of Chester’s evolution, blending the old with the new. It’s a perfect example of how modern life in the city coexists alongside its remarkable heritage.

St. John’s church
St. John’s Church is a historic and architecturally striking parish church, believed to be the original cathedral of Chester before the construction of the current Chester Cathedral. Dating back to the 7th century, the church showcases a fascinating blend of Norman and Gothic architectural styles, with elements that reflect its long and varied history. The building has undergone several modifications and restorations over the centuries, making it a remarkable example of Chester’s architectural evolution.
The Groves
The Groves is one of Chester’s most beloved attractions, located just a short walk from the city centre. This riverside area is lined with beautiful trees, historic architecture, and seating areas that overlook the River Dee. Visitors can enjoy leisurely strolls, and watch rowers and pleasure boats on the water.
The area is also home to a variety of cafes, ice cream vendors, and pubs, offering refreshments with stunning views of the river. During the warmer months, The Groves come alive with street performers, musicians, and families enjoying the open space.

Boat trips
Located at the Groves is the option for a variety of boat tours and trips. Boat trips on the River Dee in Chester offer a unique way to explore the city and its scenic surroundings. One of the most popular options is the leisurely river cruise, which provides a relaxing 30-minute to hour-long ride with informative commentary about the city’s history and landmarks. These cruises allow visitors to enjoy views of Chester’s famous city walls, lush green meadows, and the peaceful riverbanks.
For a more interactive experience, visitors can rent rowing boats or self-drive electric boats. This gives you the freedom to explore the river at your own pace, enjoying the tranquil environment while navigating the gentle bends of the water.
The Roman Gardens
The Roman Gardens is a peaceful spot right next to the Roman Amphitheatre, offering a chance to relax while soaking in some local history. The gardens are home to a collection of Roman artefacts, including sculptures, columns, and parts of an ancient bathhouse, giving visitors a glimpse into the city’s past. It’s a quiet place to unwind, with lovely views of the nearby ruins. It’s a great spot for anyone looking to enjoy some downtime while learning a bit more about Chester’s Roman heritage.

Chester Cathedral
Chester Cathedral is a beautiful mix of Norman and Gothic architecture, dating back to 1092. It’s known for its stunning central tower, colourful stained glass windows, and peaceful cloisters. Inside, you’ll learn more about its history with a guided tour or just explore on your own. The cathedral also hosts concerts and events throughout the year, and there’s a café where you can relax and enjoy the views.
Chester Zoo
Chester Zoo is one of the UK’s largest and most popular zoos, home to over 35,000 animals from around the world. It offers a wide variety of exhibits, including tropical rainforests, African savannas, and Asian habitats, where you can see species like tigers, elephants, and gorillas up close.
The zoo is dedicated to conservation efforts, and many of the animals housed here are part of breeding programs for endangered species. It’s a fantastic day out for families, with interactive experiences, educational talks, and beautifully landscaped grounds to explore.
Cheshire oaks
Cheshire Oaks is a popular outlet shopping centre located just outside Chester, offering a wide range of designer and high-street brands at discounted prices. With over 140 stores, it’s a shopper’s paradise, featuring everything from fashion and accessories to homeware and sports goods. The centre also has various food outlets, making it a great place to spend the day shopping and relaxing. Whether you’re after a bargain or just looking to browse, Cheshire Oaks provides a fantastic shopping experience.

Tips for visiting Chester
A great way to explore Chester is by using the ‘Hop on Hop off’ sightseeing bus, which offers 12 different stops around the city’s main attractions. The bus provides an informative audio guide, sharing interesting facts and history about Chester as you travel.
Tickets are £13 per person, and for many, it’s great value as it takes the stress out of trying to find everything on your own. The route covers key landmarks like the Roman Gardens, Chester Cathedral, and The Groves, allowing you to get off and explore at your own pace before hopping back on to continue your journey.
FAQs
How to spend a day in Chester?
If you want to make the most of one day in Chester’s city centre, I highly recommend using the hop-on-hop-off bus. It lets you see all the major attractions without the stress of trying to locate them on your own.

Is Chester worth a day trip?
Yes, Chester is definitely worth a day trip! With its rich history, stunning architecture, and a variety of attractions, you can easily explore the city in a day. You can stroll along the Roman walls, visit Chester Cathedral, shop in the unique Rows, or relax by the River Dee.
There’s also the option to visit Chester Zoo or take a boat trip along the river. The city offers a perfect mix of culture, history, and leisure, making it a great destination for a day out.
Can you do Chester Zoo in a day?
Yes, Chester Zoo can be done in a day, although it is home to over 35,000 animals, it has been designed to be able to see all the key areas in one day.
Conclusion
Chester is a charming city that offers a perfect blend of history, and culture, with modern activities there’s plenty to see and do.
With its vibrant shopping areas, beautiful parks, and family-friendly attractions like Chester Zoo, the city provides something for everyone. A visit to Chester is a rewarding experience, where the past and present come together to create a unique and unforgettable destination.
