Tourists have dubbed this city an underrated destination full of stunning visuals and rich culture, as well as being packed full of Roman, Norman and English history.
Just a short train journey from Manchester, Liverpool and North Wales, this city is one of the UK’s prettiest, and was named as one of the most welcoming in the world.
Visitors to Chester can expect to step back in time as they walk the city’s winding streets and Roman Walls – the most complete set in Britain. No stranger to records, Chester also boasts the country’s largest outlet village on its outskirts, with stalls based in a charming 700-year old medieval gallery.
Chester Cathedral is over 1000 years old, and boasts incredible historic architecture and rare medieval mosaics. Visitors joining the award-winning Tower Tour can expect breathtaking views of the Cathedral from above. The high point of the tour is summiting the Cathedral’s tower, which offers views of five counties and even Wales on a clear day.
Tourists after an exciting family-friendly day out can visit Chester Zoo, home to 35,000 animals spread across 128 acres of rainforests, caves and wetlands. The Zoo recently opened sunrise view safari lodges, for those looking for a more adventurous trip.
Popular travel guide A Lady In London named Chester one of the UK’s most underrated cities. They said it was an “overlooked” location, and “one of the most beautiful in the UK.”
Plenty of Christmas charm is available in Chester’s city-centre, with stalls selling everything from novelty gifts to specialty chocalate until December 22. Tourists have named the market “one of the most amazing” in the UKfor its focus on hand-made goods.
The City’s gorgeous winding streets are also home to a bustling cafe scene, with plenty of independent eateries to choose from. Shops like Bean & Cole and Jaunty Goat are go-to options for specialty coffee, and The Hollies Farm Shop sells delicious local produce.
For those planning a summer visit, Chester’s award-winning racecourse runs fixtures between May and October, which are a great option for some boozy fun.
Chester is also the setting for famous soap Hollyoaks, with memorable scenes like the tragic death of Lily McQueen filmed at Chester railway station. Fans of the show can experience walking tours for photo opportunities.
The City began in AD 79 as a Roman Fort, and flourished through trade along the River Dee. Today, tourists can spend a slower evening on a sightseeing tour of Chester by boat, or join a themed evening cruise down the Dee.
This story originally appeared on Express.co.uk
