Ghosts,
gardens, great apes and more; chilling in Chester by Andrew
Regan
 If you’re
searching for a fun, relaxing, yet inspiring family holiday destination
for your next holiday or even thinking ahead to Christmas or next summer,
the answer might be closer than you think.
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Rather than jetting off on
environmentally destructive, costly and frankly stressful flights to some
far-flung ‘beauty spot’ (often with other tourists as far as
the eye can see), why not explore the wealth of picturesque scenery,
fascinating history and fun attractions here in the UK?
There
are many delightful destinations to choose from – the historic
walled city of Chester, which is situated within easy travelling
distance of both London and the North, is just one great example.
You’ll
never be stuck for something to see and do in Chester. For example,
give the kids a unique, open-air history lesson around the famous Roman
amphitheatre and settlements, the ancient cathedral,
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Gothic
town hall and half-timbered medieval Rows; or enjoy a day at the races,
romantic walks along the River Dee, the gorgeous woods and surrounding
countryside; or a visit to Cheshire Farm where, between the fresh
home-made ice cream parlour, llama petting and falconry displays,
children should be in seventh heaven!
.For the more
macabre youngster, there are naturally hundreds of tales of wandering
spirits and disturbing apparitions in these ancient surroundings, and
several ghost-hunting walks and tours in the evenings will take you on a
thrilling journey into the heart of what claims to be England’s most
haunted city.
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If you’re into
photography, or just enjoy beautiful, calm locations for your long and
winding strolls, then check out Cholmondeley Castle Gardens which
include some 500 acres of stunning scenery, rose and rare flower
gardens, two lakes and a hedge maze to keep younger children occupied.
A walk around the well-preserved city walls (the total circuit is
around two miles) also affords some fantastic views down into the city
and a great insight into its long and varied history.
Chester
is also home to the UK’s largest zoo, so animal lovers should
definitely not miss the chance to visit the largest colony of chimpanzees
in Europe along with over seven thousand other animals.
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There’s
even more to see throughout the year as Chester plays host to various
seasonal events including an open-air cycle of medieval mystery plays
dating back to the fifteenth century with pageants and parades, a
continental Christmas market with music, film, food and drink, and the
forthcoming Literature Festival which boasts the Poet Laureate, Andrew
Motion, as a patron.
Chester
is well situated at the hub of several main roads and is easily reached
by rail or road from the north and south. It’s only 40 minutes by train
from Liverpool, or about an hour from Manchester. You’ll find a warm
welcome – and spooky stories – at the many picturesque and
luxurious hotels in Chester and the surrounding area.
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