Located in the northwest of England near the border with Wales, Chester is one of Britain’s most charming and historic cities. It’s a destination steeped in Roman history, medieval architecture, and natural beauty. From ancient city walls to serene riverside strolls, Chester combines tradition with vibrant culture, offering something for every traveler.
Whether you’re a history enthusiast, a foodie, a family explorer, or a quiet walker, Chester has experiences that feel both rich and restorative. This guide to the top 10 things to do in Chester will help you explore this city’s depth and joy with intention. And if you’re seeking more travel inspiration, don’t miss other Things to Do in Europe for your next adventure.
1. Walk the Roman Walls – A Journey Through Time
Chester’s Roman walls are the most complete city walls in Britain. Stretching nearly two miles, they provide panoramic views of the city while wrapping you in centuries of history. Originally built in 79 AD by the Romans, the walls were later extended in medieval times.
Highlights include:
- Eastgate Clock – one of the most photographed clocks in England
- Grosvenor Bridge over the River Dee
- Peaceful garden views and cathedral spires
This is a perfect place to start your Chester adventure, offering a reflective perspective on how the city has grown while preserving its legacy.
2. Explore Chester Cathedral – Spirit and Stone
Chester Cathedral is more than just a place of worship—it’s a masterpiece of Gothic and Romanesque architecture. With its peaceful cloisters, intricate woodwork, and vast vaulted ceilings, it inspires both awe and serenity.
Must-see features include:
- The Cathedral Nave
- The 14th-century Chapter House
- The Falconry and Nature Gardens
You can also climb the cathedral tower for a commanding view of the city and surrounding countryside. This site is a spiritual and cultural anchor in Chester’s heart.
3. Visit the Chester Rows – Medieval Shopping with Charm
Chester is famous for its unique Rows—two-tiered medieval galleries housing shops, cafés, and boutiques. Dating back to the 13th century, they line the main streets of the city and offer a shopping experience unlike anywhere else in the world.
Explore:
- Independent shops and artisan gifts
- Charming tea rooms and eateries
- Historical plaques detailing each Row’s heritage
Whether you’re shopping or window-browsing, the Rows provide a picturesque blend of commerce and history. They’re a must-see highlight among the things to do in Europe.
4. Cruise the River Dee – Scenic and Serene
One of the most relaxing things to do in Chester is a cruise on the River Dee. These trips offer a slow, scenic view of the city’s green spaces, historic bridges, and wildlife.
Popular options include:
- Half-hour city cruises
- Afternoon tea boat rides
- Private rowing or pedal boat hire
This is a perfect activity for couples or families wanting to unwind and enjoy nature with gentle motion and beauty.
5. Discover the Roman Amphitheatre – Layers of Legacy
Chester’s Roman Amphitheatre is the largest of its kind in Britain and a stunning reminder of the city’s ancient past. Once used for gladiator combat, religious ceremonies, and entertainment, the amphitheatre now hosts open-air performances and is surrounded by quiet gardens.
Visit this site to:
- Stand in the same arena used 2,000 years ago
- Read interpretive panels that explain Roman life
- Enjoy nearby Roman Gardens filled with statues and relics
It’s a place where imagination, history, and reflection meet.
6. Spend Time at Grosvenor Park – Green and Gracious
Grosvenor Park is Chester’s main public park and a beautiful space for rest, play, and picnicking. Laid out in the 1860s in a Victorian style, the park overlooks the River Dee and is close to many other city attractions.
Things to enjoy include:
- The miniature railway (great for children)
- Colorful flower displays and herbaceous borders
- Peaceful benches and riverside walks
It’s one of the city’s greenest gems and ideal for families or quiet afternoon breaks.
7. Visit Chester Zoo – Conservation and Wonder
Frequently ranked among the best zoos in the world, Chester Zoo is an award-winning attraction just a short drive from the city centre. Home to over 20,000 animals across 125 acres, it provides both excitement and education.
Top attractions include:
- Islands habitat experience
- Elephant and orangutan enclosures
- Daily keeper talks and conservation exhibits
Whether you’re young or old, the zoo offers an inspiring, family-friendly outing filled with awe and kindness toward nature.
8. Tour the Grosvenor Museum – Art and Artefacts
The Grosvenor Museum in Chester houses a wide array of collections that reflect the city’s heritage and wider human story. From Roman mosaics to Victorian art, the museum offers a quiet and enriching experience.
Highlights include:
- Roman tombstones and archaeological finds
- The 20th-century art gallery
- The historic Period House
Entry is usually free, and the museum is perfect for those wanting a deeper understanding of Chester’s cultural soul.
9. Indulge in Afternoon Tea – Tasteful Tradition
No visit to Chester would be complete without enjoying afternoon tea. The city has several elegant tea rooms and hotels offering this beloved British ritual, complete with scones, finger sandwiches, and fine china.
Top spots include:
- The Chester Grosvenor Hotel
- Mad Hatters Tearoom
- Tea on the Wall, offering scenic wall views
Afternoon tea is a great way to slow down and savour the city in a deliciously comforting way.
10. Attend a Performance at Storyhouse – Creative Heart of Chester
Storyhouse is Chester’s cultural hub, combining a theatre, cinema, library, and restaurant in one dynamic venue. It’s housed in a restored 1930s art deco building and offers year-round programming.
Visitors can enjoy:
- Live theatre and musical performances
- Independent and mainstream films
- Book readings and community events
Storyhouse is a great place to end your day in Chester—with imagination, community, and creative storytelling.
Conclusion
Chester is a city that invites you to walk slowly, look closely, and feel deeply. Its combination of Roman relics, medieval charm, riverside grace, and modern creativity makes it a destination that offers both inspiration and joy.
From city walls and historic cathedrals to lively cruises and cultural shows, these top 10 things to do in Chester offer a balance of excitement and peace. Every activity brings you closer to the city’s enduring story—one shaped by resilience, beauty, and the human spirit.
