Chester is a beautiful historic city in the north west of England.
It’s so easy to get to from all over the UK with trains reaching Chester from London in less than two hours.
Chester makes a great place for a day out but there is so much to do it is also a fantastic place for a longer break and is very popular with people taking weekends away.
There are so many ways to enjoy this Roman city on a budget; here are some ideas to get you started.
The city walls
Eastgate Clock
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The city walls form a two mile circuit around the city
centre, originally built by the Romans to protect the city from invasion and to
provide look out points around the city. They have in the most part been
beautifully restored and there are lots of plaques dotted around the route
where you can learn more about the history of each site.
The walls are a great place to see parts of Chester that you wouldn’t otherwise see and experience spectacular views of the city and out towards Snowdonia in Wales and all for free!
You can also get up close to the Eastgate Clock, the UK’s second most photographed clock after Big Ben. There is also a great little place to buy delicious hot donuts underneath the clock – they smell so delicious they are really not to be missed!
The banks of the River Dee
The banks of the River Dee are a charming place to visit at any time of day. Enjoy an ice cream whilst watching live performers in the bandstand before walking over the suspension bridge where you can benefit from gorgeous views of the river banks. On the other side of the bridge and down to the left are the meadows, a really great place for a picnic.
If you fancy a meal out during your trip to Chester, one of the best budget friendly places to go is the Blue Moon cafe which, by day is a 1950’s diner and by night is a French bistro.
Both menus are extremely good value for money, with deals like a free bottle of wine per couple if you book your table in advance. Winner!
Chester Cathedral Gardens
Chester Cathedral
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Pick up some picnic items from one of the many shops and cafes that are around the Cathedral and sit out in the sunshine in the gardens of Chester Cathedral.
This area is really popular with both locals and tourists alike who come to make the most of the summer in this beautiful suntrap whilst enjoying their holidays in Chester.
Indulge in some window shopping!
The Rows
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Chester has some really great places to go shopping.
In the city centre, ‘the rows’, the roman built two tier shopping streets are lovely to stroll around, even if you don’t want to make a purchase!
They are a lovely place to browse round the individual shops and wander down the narrow lanes. If you do want to make a big purchase but are after a bargain, a trip to Cheshire Oakes, the UK’s largest outlet centre is sure to have what you’re looking for!
If you fancy a trip to Chester, visit SykesCottages who have holiday accommodation in and around the Chester area, perfect for a budget weekend break or as part of a longer trip to the UK.
