Chester
Chester is one of the oldest cities in England and is one of the few examples of a walled city still remaining. One of the great attractions in Chester is to walk around the city walls (a few miles, but possible in about an hour or so) as well as wander through it's high street lined with tudor-style buildings. If you plan to visit for the day do take advantage of the “Park and Ride” service offered by the local council as parking in the city itself can be VERY expensive.
The High Street is nothing to write home about in terms of what stores are there (typical chain stores) but the architecture is worth the visit. Interesting is the walk along inside the buildings on the first floor level which gives a unique perspective on the cobbled streets below.
The Chester Cathedral can be visited free of charge (though there is fairly high pressure to donate).
Things to Do
Chester Zoo
Located to the north of city, close to the A41 is the famous Chester Zoo housing a huge collection of animals and a large conservation programme. The sprawling 128 acre grounds are divided into coloured zones home to 27,000 animals. A map is available at small cost (£1) on the day or free for download from their web site. This is most definitely recommended for first time visitors. In addition to the animals there are lush gardens throughout that are a destination unto themselves. There is a large, free, car park on site as well as a large gift shop at the main entrance.
The animal enclosures are very well kept and are minimal with few cages in sight. The animals are very well treated and thrive in the large spaces they have been allocated. There is room here for some much larger animals including giraffes, elephants and rhinoceroses. There is even the opportunity to get up and personal with the animals including the “fruit bat forest” building at the far side of the yellow zone where bats fly freely (and actively) around you in the artificially darkened building.
The “Islands” area even includes a free “cruise” boat ride past the local exhibits.
There are eat and drink kiosks everywhere as well as the massive “June's Food Court” and “Oakfield” pub (yes, pub) in the green zone, “Manado Street Kitchen” (serving more ethnic dishes) in the purple “Islands” zone, and the “Bembe Coffee Shop” at the main entrance.
Though it is expensive to visit (£33/adult including £3 donation at time of writing), the Chester Zoo offers great value for money with more than you can see in a single visit and imaginative, interesting displays and very well cared for animals. There is also a “virtual reality experience” where you can don 3D glasses to go on a jungle safari to visit apes. It is highly recommended that tickets be purchased in advance (they are also 10% cheaper online). The zoo also offers various “keeper for the day” experiences and regular special events all of which quickly sell out.
Further Information
For further information, please see:
- Visit Chester - The Official Chester Tourist Information Site