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An Award Winning Break in Chester
Looking for the best of the best for your next short break? Chester and the surrounding towns are brimming with award-winning experiences – from unique places to stay and top attractions to some of the finest food and drink in the country. Whether you’re exploring the historic city of Chester, discovering the surrounding market towns, or soaking up the scenery in the rural heart of Cheshire, there’s something truly special waiting for you.
Whether you're planning a romantic retreat, a fun-filled family holiday, or a foodie weekend escape, here’s how to enjoy an award-winning break across this vibrant and diverse corner of the county.
Where to Stay
Carden Park Hotel - Highly Commended Business Events Venue and Wedding Venue of the Year
Carden Park Hotel scooped not one, but two prestigious awards, recognised as a top Business Events Venue and an exceptional Wedding Venue. Nestled in 1,000 acres of rolling countryside, this luxurious resort offers championship golf, a state-of-the-art spa, fine dining, and elegant rooms. Whether you’re sealing business deals or saying “I do”, Carden Park is a place to celebrate life’s finest moments.


Lady Heyes Holiday Park - Best Camping, Glamping and Holiday Park
Lady Heyes Holiday Park is the perfect spot for award-winning glamping and family-friendly escapes. Just outside the historic market town of Frodsham, this welcoming site offers everything from quirky glamping pods to indulgent hot tub pitches – ideal for adding a little luxury to your outdoor adventure. It’s a wonderful place to unwind, soak up the countryside, and enjoy the great outdoors in comfort and style.
Manor Wood Country Caravan Park - Highly Commended Camping, Glamping and Caravan Park
Manor Wood Country Caravan Park, is a peaceful paradise in the heart of Cheshire’s countryside. Surrounded by woodlands and overlooking a private lake, this site is ideal for campers who enjoy well-kept facilities and a touch of tranquillity. Fishing, walking, and wildlife spotting are all on the agenda here.


Black Prince Holidays - Best Self Catering Accommodation
For something truly different, take to the water with Black Prince Holidays, winners in the Self Catering category. Their narrowboat breaks let you explore the beautiful canals of Cheshire at your own pace. Imagine waking up to birdsong and gently cruising past historic towns, charming pubs, and glorious countryside. It’s an unforgettable way to travel.
The Hive at 52 - Best Small Serviced Accommodation
The Hive at 52, offers a warm and welcoming stay in the heart of the charming village of Weaverham, just a short drive from Chester. This stylish bed and breakfast combines modern comfort with a personal touch, featuring beautifully appointed rooms, locally sourced breakfasts, and a relaxed, homely atmosphere. It’s the perfect base for exploring Chester and the surrounding areas, with the feel of a boutique hotel and the heart of a true home-from-home.


The Chester Grosvenor - Unsung Hero Award
The Chester Grosvenor, a five-star icon in the heart of the city, was honoured with the Unsung Hero award. Known for its timeless elegance, superb service, and Michelin-starred dining, the team’s dedication to excellence ensures every guest feels like royalty. It’s a shining example of what makes Chester so special.
Pitch & Canvas - Highly Commended Unsung Hero Award
Pitch & Canvas is a welcoming, family-run site nestled in the scenic Cheshire countryside near Tattenhall. Offering a mix of camping and glamping, and self-catering accommodation, it’s the ideal spot for families, couples, and groups looking to relax, recharge, and explore. With stunning views across open farmland and easy access to top attractions like Beeston Castle, Chester Zoo, and the Sandstone Trail, Pitch & Canvas combines the beauty of the outdoors with genuine, down-to-earth hospitality.

Where to visit
Storyhouse - Accessible and Inclusive Award
Storyhouse is Chester’s vibrant cultural hub, bringing together a library, theatre, cinema, and community space all under one roof. Known for its welcoming atmosphere, it’s a place where everyone can enjoy arts and culture in a relaxed and inclusive environment. Whether you’re catching a live show, browsing the shelves, or sipping coffee in the stunning atrium, Storyhouse is a must-visit destination in Chester.


Deva Fest - Best Event/Festival
If you’re visiting in summer, don’t miss Deva Fest – crowned Best Event/Festival. This family-friendly festival blends music, street food, and carnival vibes with a distinct Chester twist. With everything from local food and drink to live entertainment and children’s activities, it’s the perfect excuse to plan a festival-style weekend in Cheshire.
The Canal & River Trust - Team of the Year Award
At Anderton Boat Lift, often dubbed the 'Cathedral of the Canals', you can witness a true marvel of Victorian engineering. This towering structure effortlessly lifts boats 50 feet between the River Weaver and the Trent & Mersey Canal. Visitors can ride the lift themselves, explore interactive exhibits, and enjoy scenic walking trails and boat trips along the water.
Just a short drive away in Ellesmere Port, the National Waterways Museum offers a deep dive into the stories of Britain’s canals and the people who worked on them. Set within a historic dockyard, the museum features beautifully restored boats, hands-on exhibits, and recreated canal-side cottages that transport you back in time. It's a must-visit for history lovers, families, and anyone curious about Cheshire’s industrial past.
Together, these award-winning sites celebrate the ingenuity, history, and community spirit of the waterways – and the passionate team behind them makes every visit memorable.


Chester Zoo - Highly Commended Team of the Year
Chester Zoo, one of the UK’s top attractions and a global leader in conservation, was awarded a Highly Commended Team accolade – and it’s easy to see why. Home to over 37,000 animals, the zoo offers a full day of discovery for families, couples, and wildlife lovers alike.
The newly opened Heart of Africa exhibit invites visitors into an immersive rainforest habitat, where giraffes, okapis, and exotic birds roam freely in a vibrant, walk-through environment – a stunning new way to experience African wildlife up close.
Looking ahead, The Reserve – a unique overnight safari-style stay – is set to open in Summer 2025, offering guests the chance to wake up to breathtaking views of giraffes and rhinos from the comfort of beautifully designed lodges.
From big cats to conservation breakthroughs, Chester Zoo continues to deliver world-class experiences with real impact – making it a must-visit in Chester.
The Ice Cream Farm - Visitor Attraction of the Year
A delicious day out for all ages, The Ice Cream Farm is a favourite destination for families visiting Cheshire West. With over 50 flavours of creamy, locally made ice cream to choose from, it’s a paradise for sweet lovers. But there’s much more than just ice cream here – kids can enjoy fantastic play zones, meet friendly farm animals, and try their hand at mini-golf, while parents can relax in the café or picnic areas. Whether you’re chasing thrills or simply craving a tasty treat, The Ice Cream Farm offers fun, flavour, and fresh air in equal measure.

Where to Eat
The Fishpool Inn - Pub of the Year
Tucked away on the edge of the beautiful Delamere Forest, the Fishpool Inn offers a cosy atmosphere complete with roaring fires and rustic charm. With a menu full of hearty, seasonal dishes crafted from locally sourced ingredients, plus a carefully curated selection of ales, ciders, and wines, it’s the perfect spot to relax after a woodland walk or enjoy a leisurely Sunday roast with friends and family. Warm hospitality and great flavours await at this true forest favourite.


The Pheasant Inn - Taste of Cheshire Award
Perched high above the Cheshire Plain, The Pheasant Inn is a charming gastro pub that perfectly blends rustic countryside character with sophisticated, refined dining. The breathtaking views provide a stunning backdrop to a menu bursting with creativity and flavour, featuring locally sourced ingredients and expertly crafted seasonal dishes. Whether you’re enjoying a leisurely lunch or a special evening meal, their carefully curated wine list ensures every bite is beautifully complemented. Warm hospitality and a cosy atmosphere make The Pheasant Inn a must-visit for food lovers exploring Chester and the surrounding areas.
From luxury hotels and scenic campsites to unmissable attractions and mouth-watering meals, Chester offers everything you need for an unforgettable, award-winning escape. Whether you're here for a weekend or staying longer, this vibrant city and its surroundings promise a break that’s truly top of the class.
Start Planning Your Award-Winning Getaway..
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