There’s no place quite like Chester.
Travel by train, bus or car to arrive in the compact city of Chester for a day, overnight stay or weekend away. From medieval rows to Roman walls and an original Roman amphitheater – all situated just off the banks of the River Dee where you can take in the sights on a Chester Boat cruise. Chester has a strong independent spirit and is a haven for local and independent businesses. This year has seen more businesses open than close in Chester and most of the new businesses being independently owned, making Chester stand out from other city centres and giving you plenty of new reasons to visit.
Treat yourself with a stay at The Chester Grosvenor Hotel, an iconic 5-star landmark hotel that stands proudly in the centre of the city next to the celebrated Eastgate clock. Pamper yourself with a spa day at The Scented Garden Retreat located on Chester’s historic Rows providing a two-tiered high street for twice as much space to shop and explore. Or book with one of the many self-catering accommodation providers including brand new The Hotel Chester located conveniently in between the Grosvenor Shopping Centre and the Roman Gardens.
The city is a diner’s dream – choose from Michelin decorated restaurants like ‘Simon Radley at The Chester Grosvenor’ and DaNoi’s authentic Northern Italian cuisine or try the city’s burgeoning collection of talented young chefs bringing restaurants like Shrub or Atina Kitchen to the forefront. Chester Market has an array of street food options that are perfect for a quick bite whilst exploring quirky lanes and cobbled streets.
Shopping is an experience in itself – independent clothing boutiques, antique jewellers and art galleries abound the city’s easily navigated pedestrianised streets. Trendy independents and national brands you’d expect to see on the high street create a harmonious shopping experience to suit all styles and budgets.
In the evenings, the city comes alive with a stylish mix of bars, riverside terraces, nightclubs and historic pubs serving real ales. Chester is home to Storyhouse, one of the country’s most successful arts buildings which incorporate a library, theatres and a cinema – it boasts the longest opening hours of any UK public library, is open every day until 11pm and even has a Lebanese menu and liquor license!
With sunny days upon us the city is capitalising on the abundance of outside spaces with new alfresco seating areas popping up wherever tables and chairs can fit to help you meet and eat with friends. Whether you are a foodie, a shopper or luxury lover, Chester is a social city all about experiences.
Visit www.experiencechester.co.uk and follow @ChesterBID on Instagram, Facebook and Twitter for top tips.
Published 28th April 2021