unusual things to do in chester
Discover Chester: Unusual Things to Do in the Historic City
Chester isn’t just another pretty British city with cobblestone streets and tea shops—though it has those too! Beyond the postcard-perfect Roman walls and Gothic spires, this place hides a treasure trove of unusual things to do in Chester that’ll make your trip anything but ordinary. Whether you’re dodging ghost stories in shadowy alleys or paddling past medieval castles, Chester’s quirks are its charm. And if you’re craving something wilder? Crocky Trail, a family-friendly adventure park, throws outdoor fun into the mix. Let’s dive in!
Chester’s Must-See Sights (Plus a Few You Won’t Expect)
1. Roman Walls: Walk Through 2,000 Years of History
Forget boring history lessons—Chester’s Roman walls are like an open-air museum. Stroll their entire 2-mile loop, and you’ll pass the famous Eastgate Clock (Instagram gold) and peek into hidden gardens most tourists miss. Pro tip: Go at sunset for moody views over the cathedral.
2. Chester Rows: Shop Like a Medieval Merchant
Ever seen a two-story shopping arcade from the 1200s? Neither had I until Chester. The Rows are a maze of black-and-white timber galleries crammed with indie boutiques and cozy cafes. Don’t just window-shop—duck into the tiny courtyards tucked behind them.
3. Chester Cathedral: Gothic Grandeur With a Twist
Yes, it’s stunning. Yes, you should climb the tower. But here’s the kicker: This cathedral hosts everything from live jazz nights to falconry displays. Check their calendar—you might catch a choir rehearsal or a quirky art installation.
4. Kayak the River Dee: Chester’s Secret Backyard
Paddle a kayak along the River Dee, and suddenly Chester Castle looks like something from a fantasy novel. Glide under ancient bridges, spot herons fishing, and pretend you’re exploring uncharted territory. Trust me, it’s the most peaceful unusual thing to do in Chester—until someone splashes you!
5. Roman Amphitheatre: Where Gladiators Once Brawled
Chester’s Roman Amphitheatre isn’t just rubble—it’s Britain’s largest, and you can almost hear the crowd roar. Time your visit with a reenactment event, and you’ll see soldiers in armor or “Roman traders” hawking replica coins. Kids eat this up.
6. Secret Rows: Underground Time Capsules
Beneath Chester’s busy streets lie the Secret Rows, a network of vaulted tunnels once used by Victorian shopkeepers. Join a guided tour to hear tales of smugglers and secret trades—it’s like stepping into a Dickens novel, minus the fog.
7. Chester Zoo: Where Penguins Steal the Show
Sure, zoos aren’t “unusual,” but Chester’s is next-level. Watch orangutans swing overhead on rope bridges, meet baby rhinos, or get sprayed by mischievous penguins. Budget a full day—you’ll need it.
8. Ghost Tours: Spooks After Sundown
Chester’s ghost tours aren’t your average jump-scare fest. Guides blend history with horror, leading you to haunted pubs and plague pits. Did that shadow just move? Probably.
Crocky Trail: Where Kids (and Kids-at-Heart) Go Wild
Okay, let’s talk Crocky Trail—the antidote to yet another cathedral visit. This place is pure, unfiltered fun for families. Think muddy knees, giggles, and the kind of slides that make adults jealous. Here’s the lowdown:
The Slides: Speed Demons, Assemble!
- The Giant Slide: A steep inflatable beast that’ll have teens (and brave parents) racing to the bottom.
- The Big Slide: Carved into a hillside, this one’s all about momentum. Pro tip: Sit on a mat for extra speed!
- Mini Slides: Toddlers get their own pint-sized thrills without the scare factor.
The Rides: Choo-Choo Your Way to Fun
- Crocky Cars: Tiny pedal karts let kids “race” (read: bump into each other) on a safe track.
- Crocky Express: A mini train that loops past the park’s woodsy corners—perfect for tired little legs.
- Crocky Train: Think “Thomas the Tank Engine” vibes for the under-5 crowd.
The Trail: Obstacle Course Meets Playground
The park’s namesake trail is a woodland adventure with:
- Wobbly Bridges: Test your balance (or just cling to the ropes).
- Tunnels: Crawl through, then pretend you’re a spy escaping danger.
- Bouncy Nets: Because who doesn’t love launching into the air?
Wonderland: Where Imagination Rules
- Giant Shoe House: Yes, a climbable shoe. Channel your inner nursery rhyme character.
- Enchanted Forest: Whimsical carved creatures peek from behind trees—great for pretend quests.
- Sand & Water Play: Dig for “treasure” or splash in streams (bring extra clothes!).
Why Crocky Trail Works for Families
- No Tech, All Play: It’s screen-free fun with fresh air and grass stains.
- Budget-Friendly: Pack a picnic (there’s a café, but BYO saves cash).
- Ages 2–12 Covered: Activities scale from tot-friendly to tween-approved.
Chester Itinerary: Mix History With Hijinks
Morning: Start strong with the Roman walls and Rows. Snap that clocktower selfie!
Afternoon: Head to Crocky Trail—let the kids burn energy while you sip coffee at the café.
Evening: Kayak the Dee at golden hour, then brave a ghost tour.
Final Word
Chester’s magic lies in its contrasts: ancient walls beside riverside picnics, solemn cathedrals next to muddy adventure parks. Whether you’re here for the history or the unusual things to do in Chester, this city refuses to be boring. Just don’t blame me if your kids beg to move here!