Steeped in history, Chester’s mixture of Roman remains, timber-framed Tudor houses and medieval galleries give it undeniable allure. The city centre is filled with activities, including visiting museums, admiring architecture or shopping at boutique stores.
Chester’s main claim to fame is its city walls – the best-preserved set in Britain which date back to the Roman occupation around 2,000 years ago. Built to protect the city, they now serve as an inviting piece of history encircling a wealth of attractions. A walking tour of the walls can be done in around 45 minutes, with sights including Chester Castle, Eastgate Clock and the 1,000-year-old cathedral.
To fully appreciate the extent of Chester’s captivating history, head to the Roman Amphitheatre – the largest of its kind in the UK. This site once held up to 7,000 spectators who came to witness gladiatorial combat, festivals and other grand events. For shopping with a historical spin, the medieval galleries known as The Rows house independent and high-street stores within half-timbered galleries. Other top sights include the Roman Gardens, Chester Zoo and The Grosvenor Museum which features a wide collection of Roman relics.