Chester Local Information: 10 top things to know... more

  • 1. History of Chester

    Located in Cheshire, Chester's origins lie in the years when England was occupied by the Romans. It began as a Roman fort constructed around 75 AD on the River Dee. Chester changed hands many times during its turbulent early history. After the Romans left England, control of the city was contested between the Welsh Kingdom and the Saxons. Eventually the Saxons would defeat the ...Read moreWelsh around 617 AD. The Saxon term for a group of Roman buildings is "ceaster" and so it is not difficult to see where Chester got its name. In the Middle Ages Chester was part of the Northern rebellion against William the Conqueror. In the subsequent "Harrying of the North" more than 200 of Chester's houses were destroyed. Chester gained its Cathedral in 1541 after Henry VIII closed the friaries, the nunnery and the Abbey. Chester did benefit from the Industrial Revolution during the 18th and 19th centuries but mainly remained as a market town and tourist spot for wealthy visitors. Read less

  • 2. Now in Chester

    Today Chester remains a very popular location for tourists and tourism is one of the city's major sources of income. It has a population today of over 70,000 and is twinned with cities across the world, including Sens in France.

  • 3. Events in Chester

    Chester holds a variety of events throughout the year including a Film Festival, music events and even a Kite Festival! Unique to Chester is the Midsummer Watch Parade and the Chester Mystery Plays which are prime examples of British culture at its most eccentric and interesting. With such a wide range of choices, Chester has something for everyone.

  • 4. Attractions in Chester

    As one of Chester's most beautiful buildings, Chester Cathedral is one of the city's most popular destinations for visitors. As well as a peaceful worshipping environment, the Cathedral provides informative guided tours that offer unique insights into its history. The Dewa Roman Experience explores the city's Roman origins in a way that combines learning with fun and is enthral...Read moreling for children. Although primarily aimed at schools, it is also available to members of the public. The Roman Soldier Patrol is especially exciting - children discover the duties of a Roman soldier on a guided tour of the city whilst equipped with Roman battle shields! One of Chester's most famous and successful attractions is its nationally renowned Zoo. Adults and children alike will be captivated by some of the world's most spectacular animals in an environment designed to promote conservation and breeding programs for endangered species. Read less

  • 5. Things To Do in Chester

    As well as visiting the locations above there are many other activities to be enjoyed in Chester. The Cheshire Military Museum celebrates the city's and the County's proud military tradition. The Museum houses a wide variety of exhibitions covering periods like the 18th and 19th centuries and both World Wars. Chester's Castle also has its own exhibition. Some of the best view...Read mores of the city can be observed from the River Dee. Two ships, The Lady Diana and Mark Twain, both serve hot and cold beverages and visitors can explore both above and below deck. Chester also has a miniature railway inside the scenic Grosvenor Park. The track is a quarter of a mile long and runs around the lake. There are a number of activities to enjoy in the park itself, including a miniature golf course. Read less

  • 6. Business in Chester

    Grosvenor Shopping Centre has over 70 top brand stores and 450 parking spaces and so is very accessible to visitors. Located on Pepper Street the centre is very close to Chester city centre. Chester also has an indoor market that can trace its origins back to the 12th Century. Inside many experienced local businesses are ready to take care of your every need.

  • 7. Transport in Chester

    Chester's railway station is located on the mainline and is accessible from most major cities. The closest airport to Chester is either Heathrow or Liverpool's John Lennon. Chester is off the M56 which in turn can be accessed from the M6.

  • 8. Entertainment in Chester

    As well as a prestigious bar and restaurant, Telford's Warehouse is also a premier music and arts venue. Offering a wide variety of music performances throughout the year, the Warehouse is one of the hottest entertainment spots in Chester today. Chester Racecourse couples all the excitement of the races with top quality service and dining and can be hired for private functions ...Read moreas well. Read less

  • 9. Famous Landmarks in Chester

    Eastgate Clock is located on the original entrance of Deva Victrix, the site of the Roman fort that was the basis for the creation of Chester itself. After Big Ben, it is thought to be the most photographed clock in the entire country.

  • 10. Interesting Facts about Chester

    According to Tudor law it is illegal for a Welshman to enter Chester after dark and legal to shoot them with a bow and arrow after midnight!

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Chester Events

  • 01 September 2012 - 30 September 2012

    Chester Kite Festival

    Chester hosts an annual Kite Festival that is not only visually stunning but also a fun activity for the entire family. The event includes professional displays as well as workshops aimed to help those with an amateur interest in kite flying. Not to be missed is the

  • 01 June 2013 - 30 June 2013

    The Chester Film Festival

    The annual Chester Film Festival screens independent films from across the world. Hosted by the Chester Film Society, eccentric and original films are shown in various locations around the city. The Festival allows film lovers to view the works of up and coming names i

  • 01 July 2013 - 31 July 2013

    Chester Rocks

    Chester Rocks is a musical event held at Chester Racecourse where some of the most talented stars from the past and the present can be seen. Artists who have attended in the past include Iggy and the Stooges and Taio Cruz. Taking place in July, Chester Rocks allows t

  • 01 June 2013 - 31 July 2013

    Chester Mystery Plays

    Originating in the 14th century and taking place once every five years, Chester puts on a variety of plays that are bound to entertain everyone. The plays are performed both inside and outside and the event is considered to be a highlight of the British arts calendar.

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