Find your Chester

Chester is a city to experience, your way. Find your Wildside at Chester Zoo, your Thrill at the Racecourse, your Style among the Rows and Premium shopping outlets. Discover your next favourite place to eat among the city’s independent restaurants, bars and bustling Market Hall. Wall-to-wall history and culture to unforgettable experiences, a weekend gives you the freedom to discover more, stay longer and create your own story. Whatever you’re into, find your version of Chester.

How to spend a weekend in Chester

Chester has been voted one of Europe’s prettiest cities, but there’s much more to discover beyond its good looks. From 2,000 years of history and unforgettable family attractions to independent food, premium shopping and experiences worth travelling for, Chester is made for a weekend away.

Step into 2,000 years of history

Walk the city’s historic walls for a unique view of Chester and discover its Roman past along the way. Explore the Roman Amphitheatre, wander through the city’s historic streets and famous two-tier Rows, or join a guided tour and see the city through the eyes of a Roman soldier.

At the heart of the city, Chester Cathedral offers another chapter of the story, while the River Dee, Eastgate Clock and some of Chester’s most distinctive architecture are all within easy walking distance.

Shop for something special

Shopping in Chester is an experience in itself. Explore independent boutiques, familiar favourites and premium brands around the city centre, including the historic Rows and Eastgate Square.

For serious retail therapy, head just outside the city to Cheshire Oaks Designer Outlet, home to a huge collection of designer and premium brands.

And don’t miss Chester Market. The city’s modern market brings together independent traders, street food, drinks and entertainment, making it as much a place to eat and socialise as it is to shop.

Eat, drink and make a night of it

A weekend gives you time to experience Chester after dark. Discover everything from award-winning independents and relaxed alfresco dining to cocktails, contemporary dining and well-known premium restaurants.

Combine dinner with a show at Storyhouse, discover the city’s bars and pubs, or simply find a table and watch the city go by. With so much within walking distance, staying overnight means you can make much more of your time in Chester. Find more inspiration at visitchester.com.

Must see attractions in Chester

Cathedral at Height - tour behind the scenes of gothic Chester Cathedral and get the best views in the city from the top of the tower.

The Rows - delve into shopping heaven in these 700 year old medieval galleries - two tiers of shops from household names to tiny independents.

River cruises - get a completely different view of the sights on a city cruise or afternoon tea cruise along the River Dee with ChesterBoat.

Chester Races - experience the thrill of raceday or take in a polo match at Britain’s oldest racecourse - 25 minutes’ walk from the station.

Chester Zoo - explore 125 acres of habitats and over 21,000 exotic and endangered animals, a couple of miles north of the city.

Chester Zoo ticket discounts

Chester Zoo is one of the most popular days out for the whole family in the Chester area, and it’s no surprise as it houses over 21,000 exotic and endangered animals to visit and educate your little ones on.

We have an amazing deal to offer our customers visiting Chester Zoo. Buy a ticket for the zoo and show your train ticket or proof or travel with TfW when you arrive to get a second one half-price.

Taking the train to Chester Zoo is easy. Take the X1 bus from outside Chester railway station and arrive at the zoo in just 15 minutes to enjoy your day out. Buy your zoo tickets today.

Trains to Chester

Catching the train to Chester? We run services from different parts of the country to this popular town, including Manchester, Cardiff and more. Find some of our most popular routes to Chester here. You can use your railcard or buy Advance tickets for discounts. Travel with us today.