How to Spend a Weekend in Chester
Our guide to the ultimate weekend in the historic Roman city of Chester
STAY
Standing proudly in Chester since 1865, overlooking the iconic Eastgate Clock, The Chester Grosvenor is the place to go for traditional charm and five-star service. The Grade II listed building is home to individually-designed bedrooms and suites, two restaurants and a tranquil, tucked-away spa. For a more boutique feel, the Georgian townhouse which is home to Oddfellows Chester was once an Oddfellows Hall (for the society of misfits and dreamers) and has a restaurant, cocktail bar and even a secret garden.
EAT
Covino is an intimate spot on Northgate Street where you can take your pick from more than 130 wines alongside moreish Mediterranean-inspired sharing plates. For something more substantial, Upstairs at the Grill is a chic, New York-inspired steakhouse where you’ll find premium Welsh beef and rare breeds from around the world on the menu, while Stile Napoletano is the go-to for authentic, Neapolitan-style pizza.
EXPLORE
Holding various accolades including being the oldest, longest and most complete city walls in Britain, the two-mile walk around Chester City Walls is a must, and there are plenty of great views and historical snippets to discover along the way. At the heart of the city, Chester Cathedral has stood for 11 centuries (though the history of the site stretches back to the Romans in the first century AD) – make sure you climb the 216 steps to the top of the tower for the breathtaking views over an astonishing five counties.
DONT MISS
Chester Rows is a series of two-tiered timber-framed galleries lining the main streets of the city, now home to quirky independent shops, restaurants and bars.
Chester also boasts the largest Roman Amphitheatre in Britain, and one of the largest zoos in the UK. Chester Zoo is home to more than 500 species (make sure you see the red pandas) and every visit funds vital conservation work in more than 20 countries.
