Founded as a Roman fortress in the first century, Chester’s ancient splendors are close at hand, from the red sandstone circuit of its city walls to the Chester Amphitheatre, the largest of its kind in the UK. After various conflicts the city thrived once again as a medieval hub, and the glorious heights of the Chester Cathedral—as well as the half-timbered buildings that line the Rows—are a testament to that chapter of its history. Today, top things to do in Chester include enjoying its tea rooms, River Dee views, and the rarefied Chester Racecourse.
Chester is a beautiful place to visit in the spring (March through June). The city also hosts a number of great events during thing time period, such as the Taste Cheshire Food and Drink Festival, which boasts celebrity chefs and treats from more than 150 food and drink brands. The summer months tend to be the busiest, due to warm weather and the school holidays. If you don’t mind crowds, visit in July for the annual Chester Raft Race.
Chester is a stunning city to explore on foot; be sure to look up the Chester Walls Walk, which goes along the top of the city’s ancient fortifications; it takes about an hour. In the summer, you can also take a boat along the River Dee; you can book an organized tour or rent a pedalo or row boat. There are also bus routes throughout the city and 24-hour taxi stands, including one at Chester Railway Station.
Chester has outstanding plant-based dining options. One popular spot is Shrub, an excellent pick for first-class vegan food, cocktails, and cakes. This modern cafe serves everything from seitan burgers to poke bowls and even cookie dough blondies. Hypha is another local favorite; it’s known for its zero-waste kitchen, in-house fermentation lab, and micro-seasonal tasting menu. Another option is the Jaunty Goat, which offers great coffee and a vegetarian menu that includes shakshuka, organic porridge, and seasonal stew.
