Do as the Romans do in Chester 

From Pimms to Tequila and Pizza to Tacos...there's something for everyone in Chester!

We chose Chester for our next trip as it lies on the border of Cheshire and North Wales, not far from the bigger cities of Liverpool and Manchester. This little city is often overlooked as a destination for a city break, but Chester is ideal for a weekend away. 

Did you know?

The Romans founded Chester in the 70s AD and it was the Roman occupancy that gave the city such a beautiful and unique character. The city is home to the largest Roman Amphitheatre in Britain,  a 1,000 year old Cathedral, the oldest racecourse in Britain and still, has the most complete city walls!  

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We began our trip to Chester with a stroll through the city centre to admire the famous Chester Rows. These beautiful, black and white Tudor-style buildings are unique to Chester thanks to their two-story design. Shops, cafes, bars and restaurants line the ground floor and wonky steps lead up to a second floor with a covered walkway and more shops. 

Pizza, Pimms and Plants!

Stopping for a moment we had a coffee at one of the many independent coffee shops. I love the Jaunty Goat on Bridge Street where you’ll find specialty coffee and honest food. They also have a roastery and supply coffee to some of the best coffee shops in Chester. If you’re looking for a plant based menu then try the Jaunty Goat on Northgate Street. For something quirkier, head up to The Flower Cup, a botanical coffee shop on the historic Watergate Street Row level shops. 

We checked to see what’s going on at Storyhouse, Chester’s independent cinema, theatre, library and activity space. If you prefer your entertainment outdoors then check the schedule at Grosvenor Open Air Theatre where outdoor cinema screenings and theatre productions happen in the beautiful Grosvenor Park. Make sure you pre-order a stone-baked pizza and arrive early to enjoy a Pimms in the teepee bar! 

The River Dee is a short stroll from the city centre and it’s a hive of activity on a sunny day. Pleasure boats, pedalos and rowing bows run up and down the river while crowds gather around the bandstand to watch street performers. Stroll along the riverside promenade and stop at Snugbury’s for an ice cream or head to Hickory’s Smokehouse for all-American food inspired by the Southern States. 

If you’re visiting Chester on race day then you can’t miss a trip to Chester Racecourse. Race Days run from May to September and they bring the city to life with pre-race excitement and post-race celebrations! Be aware that Chester is considerably busier during racing weekends. 

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Tequila and Tacos.....

Pop in to Chester Indoor Market to appreciate Chester’s independent traders. The food and drink is the highlight of this market with so many foodie delights. Some of my favourites are Caribbean food at Jeffro’s Wingz and Tingz, Mexican tacos and tequila at Death by Tacos and a bottle shop and tap room at That Beer Place.

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