Why do tourists love the city of Chester so much?
Chester is a fantastic city for a weekend break, and it’s especially good for a night of relaxed days with a Chester escort, followed by a steamy night in some of its gorgeous hotels. Visiting Chester with an escort can be a wonderful way to explore the city's historic and cultural attractions, enjoy fine dining, and experience its unique charm. Here are some suggestions for making the most of your visit, as well as why Chester attracts so many tourists every year.
Roman history
The Romans have long been a subject of fascination due to their many inventions that are still in use today (for example, plumbing).
A main draw of Chester is its rich - and still extremely visible - history. There is no need to look too deep or too far to find it either - arriving into Chester, the first thing that greets you are its well-preserved Roman walls. Walls in and of themselves aren’t that interesting, but when you consider they’ve survived 2,000 years, it’s pretty amazing. The main access onto the walls is at each of the four main gateways - Northgate, Eastgate, Watergate and Bridgegate, plus there are many other steps around the city, so you can walk these defensive walls. The Roman Amphitheatre, the largest in Britain, and other Roman ruins attract history enthusiasts.
Beautiful architecture
Unusual buildings naturally draw the eye. Chester is unique for its black-and-white timbered buildings - the Chester Rows. Some date back to Tudor times, with the oldest being in situ since 1603. A lot of Chester's architecture dates from the Victorian era, many of the buildings being modeled on the Jacobean half-timbered style. As most of these buildings now house shops, it’s a great way to shop while also taking a closer look. The Chester Cathedral, a stunning example of medieval architecture, with beautiful gardens and a rich history, is also a sight worth seeing, and one reason that many medieval enthusiasts visit the city.
Shopping
Interestingly, The Rows are unique in the world to Chester, and nobody is quite sure why they were built in this way. Some original 13th century buildings, including the Three Old Arches in Bridge Street, have survived the ravages of time, although many were restored in the 20th century and aren’t the originals.
The Chester Rows provide a unique shopping experience with a mix of high-end brands, independent boutiques, and traditional shops. There’s plenty of variety and it's best to wander them and let yourself get lost, especially on the raised walkways - it’s said these were to stop important people from getting their feet dirty on the main street. Many shops under the rows also have spooky, ancient stone ceilings. Popular shops include Cotswold Outdoor, Links of London, Pandora, and Hotel Chocolat.
Dining out
Chester has a variety of options for food and drink despite not being as large as other cities like Manchester or London. The city has a vibrant food scene with numerous restaurants, cafes, and pubs offering a range of culinary delights. You can try the Olive Tree Brasserie, serving exquisite Mediterranean cuisine, or the USA-inspired Hickory’s Smokehouse which also has beautiful views of the Dee River. However, there are also many fine dining restaurants to try. These include:
Covino:
Cuisine: Modern European
Highlights: Covino offers an intimate dining experience with a focus on quality wines and a seasonal menu. The restaurant’s small plates are perfect for sharing, allowing you to sample a variety of dishes.
Location: 118 Northgate Street, Chester
The Forge:
Cuisine: British/Grill
Highlights: Specializing in open-fire cooking, The Forge offers a menu of locally sourced meats and seasonal produce. The rustic-chic décor and open kitchen create a unique and engaging dining experience.
Location: Grosvenor Park Road, Chester
Artezzan Restaurant and Bar:
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Highlights: Artezzan brings the flavors of the Mediterranean to Chester, offering a vibrant menu that includes fresh seafood, meats, and vegetarian dishes. The modern and stylish interior provides a comfortable dining atmosphere.
Location: 33 Bridge Street, Chester
Scenic Beauty and Green Spaces:
Chester is located on the River Dee, offering beautiful riverside walks and boat trips.
The city is also home to several parks and gardens, such as Grosvenor Park, providing peaceful spots for relaxation.
Luxury hotels
Chester is a great place for a romantic night away and it has plenty of high-end luxury accommodation to make your trip perfect. Here are some of our favourites…
The Chester Grosvenor:
Located in the heart of the city, The Chester Grosvenor is a five-star hotel known for its elegant rooms, Michelin-starred dining at "Simon Radley at The Chester Grosvenor," and a luxurious spa.
ABode Chester:
This contemporary hotel offers stylish rooms with stunning views of the racecourse and Welsh hills. It features a rooftop restaurant and bar, "Brasserie Abode," which serves modern European cuisine.
Rowton Hall Hotel and Spa:
Situated in a Georgian manor house, Rowton Hall offers a peaceful countryside retreat just outside Chester. The hotel features luxurious rooms, a fine dining restaurant, and a full-service spa.
Oddfellows Chester:
A boutique hotel with quirky, individually designed rooms, Oddfellows Chester is known for its unique style and intimate atmosphere. The hotel has a trendy bar and garden area, perfect for relaxing.
Crabwall Manor Hotel & Spa:
Set in an elegant historic manor house, Crabwall Manor offers spacious rooms, a fine dining restaurant, and a luxurious spa with an indoor pool, sauna, and fitness center.
