Chester is always a great place to spend time, but the summer seems to suit this vibrant, historic city particularly well. Whether you’re looking for exciting family days out, close encounters with the world’s wildest animals, brushes with the city’s rich history or you want to dive into its arts and culture scene, Chester is bursting with summer fun. Plus, it’s so easy to reach from Anwyl developments like Summers Bridge and Deva Green.
Modern Chester is a city buzzing with summer possibilities, but maybe the best way to begin our round-up of what to do in Chester is to wind back the clock and discover how the Romans shaped the place we know and love today.
Discovering Chester’s Roman origins
Chester was originally the site of a Roman fort that grew into a major settlement called Deva – honoured in the name of our Deva Green development! Roman history is thrillingly close to the surface in Chester, and no city visit is complete without seeing the remains of the Roman amphitheatre – the largest in Britain. And even better… the site is a sun trap in summer!
The Roman walls are a must-see too, and as the only city in the country with a complete circuit of defensive walls, the two-mile walk around them is a great way to see Chester in the sun.
The splendour of Chester Cathedral
There are more ancient wonders at Chester Cathedral, the glorious Grade 1-listed beauty in the heart of the city. Its gorgeous grounds offer a peaceful escape from the city bustle, and when the summer temperature rises, its impressive interior is a cool and welcoming retreat.
One of the most exciting activities in Chester is to take in one of the regular Tower Tours with its breathtaking views of Chester and beyond – two countries and five counties in one sweeping panorama!
Going wild with Chester’s legendary wildlife
Along with its rich history, Chester is also famous for its links to the animal kingdom through the world-renowned Chester Zoo. Located just north of central Chester, the zoo is less than 20 minute’s drive from both Deva Green and Summers Bridge, making it a convenient day out packed with spectacular animal experiences. Of all the things to do in Chester for families, a trip to the zoo has got to be up there with the most memorable summer activities.
Plus, there’s the Blue Planet aquarium at Ellesmere Port too – again, easily reached from our local Anwyl developments. Ellesmere Port is also the place to go for fashion bargains and a huge range of discount brands – just head for Cheshire Oaks Designer Outlet and see what you can find.
Summertime in Grosvenor Park
This is the time of year when we all love to get out into the open air, and you don’t have to travel out into the countryside to enjoy some uplifting green space. Grosvenor Park in the heart of Chester is a city oasis with grand tree-lined avenues, expansive lawns and beautiful floral displays, along with wide-open views across the River Dee. There are miniature train rides each weekend too.
The park is a great place to visit at any time, but the summer season at the Grosvenor Park Open Air Theatre is one of the UK’s best outdoor theatre experiences. The 2024 season includes The Gangs of New York, The Importance of Being Earnest and The Wizard of Oz, so whether you’re looking for things to do in Chester for couples, families, or anyone who loves a good time, there’s bound to be something for you!
Once upon a time… there was Storyhouse
The culture continues over at Storyhouse, the award-winning Chester venue that’s home to a library, theatres, cinema and restaurant, as well as vibrant community arts spaces. Families are especially welcome, so you could always pop in to the library and explore the world of books with the kids this summer – particularly handy if it rains!
Discover a new kind of market
Chester has long been home to a bustling market, and the New Chester Market in Exchange Square by the Town Hall brings that traditional lively experience right up to date. In its stylish new setting, it’s the perfect place to go for delicious street food, amazing produce and artisan treats from all over the world, plus it’s packed with independent traders selling everything from cosmetics and flowers to arts and crafts.
Go with the flow on the River Dee
Flowing through the middle of the city, the River Dee is well worth exploring. There are regular river cruises throughout the summer – you can pick up the ChesterBoat services by the bandstand on The Groves – or you can simply take a leisurely walk along this stunning stretch of water.
Look out for familiar Chester landmarks such as the ornate Queens Park Suspension Bridge and the historic Old Dee Bridge, or try and spot some of the wonderful river wildlife. Don’t miss the Chester Meadows, the riverside grass and wetland rich in plants and birdlife.
Chester’s magnificent museums
If you’re looking for what to do in Chester this summer, the city’s museums are packed with fascinating items, historical relics and hands-on experiences that help to bring the region’s history to life.
The Grosvenor Museum is a treasure trove that tells the story of the city, and includes incredible displays of Roman carvings among its nationally important collections. The venue runs art and craft workshops too, so why not pop along and get creative this summer?
There’s a less traditional museum experience at Sick to Death in the old St Michael’s Church on Bridge Street. Promising an unforgettable journey through the history of medicine – focusing on the grisly and the gory! – this is an exciting interactive attraction that’s perfect for families who love to learn and have fun!
Summer brings out the best in Wepre Park
Chester, Deeside and Flintshire boast a wealth of wonderful parks and gardens, and Wepre Park in Connah’s Quay is a beauty – it’s just over a 15-minute drive from our Summers Bridge development and is perfect for an idyllic summer day out. With its woodland walks and well-equipped children’s playground, along with skatepark, fishing pool, playing fields and visitor centre, there’s so much to discover for all ages. Plus, if the weather heats up, there are plenty of spots where the kids can paddle in Wepre Brook. If that’s not enough, the impressive remains of the 13th-century Ewloe Castle are well worth exploring too.
There are so many activities in Chester!
With so much to do this summer in Chester and the surrounding region, there’s never been a better time to explore this amazing, world-famous city. From Roman walls to roaming castles, let’s all get out there and explore!
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