Upwrap Christmas in Chester with your Group
Chester is the perfect place to bring a group, there is so much to do and even more around the festive season! We've put together some itinerary ideas to help you get the most out of your visit to our beautiful city.
What better way to start than with a guided tour of the city? Your group will be enthralled by the tales and anecdotes of those who have contributed to the rich heritage of this much-loved city, beginning in Roman times, through the vibrant Medieval expansion period, the desperation of the Civil War, the Georgian elegance and the Victorian revival, right up to the present day. Tours run daily from the Visitor Information Centre at 10.30am.
Alternatively, you can take a tranquil half-hour river cruise along the River Dee with ChesterBoat. This cruise departs from The Groves, offering a new view of the city, and taking in some beautiful and interesting riverside properties. Look out for the local wildlife too, including swans, cormorants and kingfishers.
On the outward leg of the cruise, you will be offered a commentary that answers some of the more common questions asked about the river. On the return leg, there will be a more complete commentary, detailing interesting facts about Chester’s rich history and pointing out some of the more prominent buildings in the city skyline and along the river banks.
No visit to Chester is complete without a visit to the stunning Cathedral, and Christmas is an extra special time to visit as they host their annual Christmas Tree Festival. Wind your way around the Cathedral where you will find 80 Christmas trees adorned with thousands of twinkly lights (22nd November to 6th January) all decorated by local schools and businesses. It truly is a sight to behold.
Or if you are feeling daring, you can climb the Cathedral's 216 steps to the top of the Tower on a Tower Tour. On your way up to the top, you can admire breathtaking views of the Cathedral's interior before you reach 125 feet high and take in a view encompassing one city, two countries and five counties! You also visit the former Bell Ringing Chamber, several other secret behind-the-scenes areas, and learn fascinating facts along the way.
Then it's time for a delicious festive lunch. You will be spoilt for choice in Chester this Christmas but you could try Cafe 1092 at the Cathedral, where you will dine in the thirteenth-century monks' dining hall. Or you could treat yourselves to Afternoon Tea with a sumptuous range of freshly prepared finger sandwiches, petit fours and cakes for £18pp.
Or, you could head to the Queen Hotel for Festive Afternoon tea. Where you can indulge in a selection of delicious finger sandwiches, warmed scones and clotted cream, paired with tea or coffee and a Christmas cracker (£29pp). Or for the ultimate festive dining experience, enjoy a jolly, festive lunch at the Queen. With your own private room, so you can enjoy your own festive celebrations (Minimum 20 guests)
Or, head to the Forge for a festive feast of BBQ Padron Peppers, Pigs in Blankets and Bubble and Squeak croquette, then Stream Trout, Gammon Shank or Squash Tart to start. With Duck Breast, BBQ Hake, Turkey Roulade or Crapaudine Beetroot for main and Spiced Creme Brulee, White Chocolate Mousse and sticky Ginder Pudding for dessert. Yum!
Or for something a bit different North Light are offering Festive Finger Food from £25 per portion. Choose from Salt and Pepper Calamari, Halloumi Fries, Arancini, Korean Fried Chicken, mini kebabs and more.
Plus Artezzan are offering a 2 course lunch for £26.95 and three courses for £31.50 plus a range of Christmas Cocktails to enjoy!
After lunch it's time to hit the shops, not forgetting you get twice the number of shops in Chester to explore with our two tiered rows. Here you will find some of the city's quirkiest independent shops, restaurants, bars and attractions.
Plus a visit to Chester's popular Christmas Market is a must! (15th November - 22nd December). With 70 stalls of handmade and locally produced crafts, jewellery, accessories, stocking fillers and food, it's the perfect place to pick up those special and unusual gifts for your loved ones plus a decadent hot chocolate, mulled wine or tasty treat.
Or, head to Cheshire Oaks Designer Outlet for an afternoon of retail therapy, with designer brands always up to 60% less. Here you can shop and dine in style with over 145 boutiques, cafes and restaurants to choose from.
Book your visit in advance to receive a welcome pack including a 10% discount card* for all passengers plus exclusive discounts for selected restaurants and cafes. Your booking also includes a reserved parking space.
If, after all that shopping you still have some energy, why not head to Storyhouse for their festive performance. Everyone loves a panto at Christmas time, oh yes they do! This year it's Sleeping Beauty (5th - 29th December) taking you on an enchanting journey into the land of dreams to a world of wonder, packed with pop favourites, audience interaction and dazzling dances.
After a jam packed day a rest is in order. Come on a culinary journey as you step into the stylish surroundings of the Garden Room and Terrace restaurant at the Doubletree By Hilton Hotel. When you dine there you are unlocking the secret to this brand new restaurant where they have created a menu using some of the finest British ingredients around. Then stay in some of the stylish, comfortable rooms.
Or enjoy a meal in the relaxed and stylish Brasserie at the Mercure Chester Abbots Well Hotel before you retire to your rooms. With its stunning city wall views, the Brasserie is the ideal spot for a memorable dining experience.
The menu features a wide variety of classic British food, as well as some more modern options. There is something to suit everyone’s taste, from hearty pies and roasts to lighter salads and fish dishes. The Brasserie also has a great selection of wines and beers so that you can enjoy the perfect accompaniment to your meal.
Or, come and stay at the recently renovated Queen Hotel, just opposite the railway station. This magnificent brick and stucco Italianate building was said to be the first skyscraper of its time. Since opening in 1860, its hosted guests such as Charles Dickens, Cecil Rhodes and Lillie Langtry.
To make your visit easier, we have put together a FAQ document for coach travel here.
to add an item to your Itinerary basket.
.png){kind=icon}
.png){kind=icon}
