With stunning natural scenery, access to local beaches and plenty of family-friendly activities on offer, a family trip to Chester is a great experience for kids. Get to grips with the history of the local area, spend some time in the great outdoors or take animal-lovers on a trip to the zoo. Whatever you get up to, Chester is an ideal place for a family adventure.
1. History and sightseeing
The city of Chester was originally built in Roman times. As a result, the streets are filled with history and you can view several examples of stunning architecture. Jump on board a Chester Open Top Sightseeing Bus to ride in comfort and learn more about the old city walls, the Cathedral and the Roman Amphitheatre. Just a few minutes walk from the city centre, you’ll find pretty Grosvenor Park, complete with its own Miniature Railway system that will transport you around the lake in style.
If you’re looking for an active day out with all the family that lets you to explore the city while having fun too, join the Chester Eastgate Clock Treasure Trail. The self-guided walk leads you through some of the city’s bigger attractions, all while on the hunt for hidden treasure.
Chester Zoo is a centre for conservation and research and lets you get up close and personal with penguins, elephants, black bears and (everyone’s favourite) orangutans.
Bath time at the zoo. Photo © ziquiu
2. The Great Outdoors
Just half an hour outside of the city by car is the New Brighton beach, where families can take a walk along the sandy beach and visit the Black Pearl pirate ship, made out of driftwood and free for children to play on. New Brighton offers plenty of traditional fish and chips shops for hungry explorers too.
For a really adventurous day out, visit the Crocky Trail, a mile-long adventure of bridges, rope swings, slides and even a tunnel of doom. The trail is designed to be suitable for the whole family. Don’t forget to book a room at a Chester hotel so you have somewhere warm and cosy to return to at the end of a long day outdoors.
3. Rainy days
If the weather isn’t lending itself to outdoor playtime, head to Funky Town, an indoor adventure and play area in the heart of the city. They offer rope bridges, ball pits and slides as well as sensory zones and a full café that serves nutritious delights.
4. Food and drink
Luke’s Eating House is relatively new in town and is making a splash with local foodies. The atmosphere is slick and stylish, and despite the contemporary décor there is an extensive kids menu and the owners go out of their way to welcome families.
For a great-quality restaurant that offers delicious food for adults as well as a children’s menu, head to The Millstone bar and restaurant in Penyffordd. They serve delicious, fresh food that’s sourced from the area.
Local favourite Hickory’s Smokehouse offer a special menu for V.I.Ks (very important kids) that includes burgers, nuggets and hot dogs. There’s also a secret play area and you can get your photo taken with the restaurant’s rhino, Otis.
Book a room at our Travelodge Chester hotel to begin your adventures.
