Things to Do in Chester

Nearly 2,000 years of English history circle Chester's medieval center, where Roman walls contain Tudor buildings housing modern restaurants and Victorian restorations create theatrical streetscapes. Complete Roman fortifications survive here. The covered first-floor galleries called the Rows give Chester its distinctive character, while red sandstone cathedral and defensive walls prove this place has been important since Roman times—and still is.

Good food fills historic buildings throughout Chester's center. The Rows and surrounding streets offer cozy tea rooms in Tudor buildings alongside modern bistros with innovative menus, while atmospheric pubs serve excellent dishes under low beams and beside inglenook fireplaces. You'll find solid Indian and Chinese restaurants plus gastropubs that elevate British dishes with local ingredients—the covered market stocks fresh local produce and artisanal foods.

Late spring through early autumn works best for Chester visits. May to September offers ideal weather for walking the walls and taking river cruises, though summer brings the biggest crowds and highest prices during horse racing season. Winter has Christmas markets. Spring and autumn balance reasonable weather with manageable crowds and lower prices.