Chester: Family trips with kids

Chester: Where Roman history meets roaring good times for the whole family!

Chester

Chester is a fantastic destination for families, centered around the UK's most visited zoo. Kids will love exploring ancient Roman walls, discovering hidden medieval shopping rows, and enjoying boat rides in a beautiful park. With a blend of history, nature, and unique experiences, Chester promises an unforgettable adventure for all ages.

Attractions

Chester Zoo

Home to over 20,000 animals, including elephants and giraffes, this massive zoo offers a full day of discovery for all ages.

Hint: full day

  • Monorail ride for a unique view
  • Elephant habitat and daily talks
  • Islands zone with diverse animal exhibits
Theme parks & passes (Klook)

Chester Roman Walls Walk

Walk the complete circuit of the best-preserved Roman walls in Britain, offering scenic views and a tangible connection to history for all ages.

Hint: 2-3h, free

  • Northgate and Eastgate Clock views
  • Views of the River Dee
  • Interpretive plaques about Roman history
Theme parks & passes (Klook)

Roman Amphitheatre

Explore the largest Roman amphitheatre in Britain, where gladiators once fought, perfect for kids (good for 5-12) to imagine ancient spectacles.

Hint: 1h, free

  • Walk the arena floor
  • Explore the spectator seating areas
  • Read information boards about its history
Theme parks & passes (Klook)

Chester Rows

Discover unique medieval two-tiered shopping galleries, an architectural marvel great for older kids (good for 7-12) to explore hidden pathways.

Hint: 1-2h, free to browse

  • Explore the upper level walkways
  • Browse unique independent shops
  • Find historic architectural details
Theme parks & passes (Klook)

Grosvenor Park

A beautiful Victorian park offering open spaces, a miniature railway, and boat rides on the River Dee, ideal for all ages, especially younger children (good for 2-10).

Hint: 2-3h, boat rides £

  • Take a ride on the miniature railway
  • Enjoy a boat trip on the River Dee (seasonal)
  • Play in the adventure playground
Theme parks & passes (Klook)

Sick to Death

An interactive and educational museum exploring the history of medicine and disease in a fun, slightly gruesome way, suitable for curious kids (good for 6-12).

Hint: 1.5-2h, £7 pp

  • Discover medieval medical practices
  • Interact with historical exhibits
  • Learn about plague doctors and ancient remedies
Theme parks & passes (Klook)

Hotels

Oddfellows

A quirky boutique hotel offering family rooms and a charming garden, located close to the city walls.

Area: City Centre

  • Family rooms
  • Garden
  • Restaurant
Check rates on Booking.com

The Chester Grosvenor

A luxurious hotel in the heart of Chester with elegant family suites and a renowned spa for parental relaxation.

Area: City Centre

  • Family suites
  • Spa
  • Fine dining
Check rates on Booking.com

Roomzzz Chester City

Modern aparthotel with fully equipped kitchens in every room, perfect for families wanting self-catering options.

Area: Watergate Street

  • Kitchenettes
  • Family rooms
  • Free Wi-Fi
Check rates on Booking.com

Premier Inn Chester City Centre (Feathers Lane)

Reliable and affordable option with comfortable family rooms, often with kids stay and eat free deals.

Area: City Centre

  • Family rooms
  • Restaurant
  • Free Wi-Fi
Check rates on Booking.com

Holiday Inn Express Chester Racecourse

Conveniently located with easy access to the city and zoo, offering comfortable family rooms and complimentary breakfast.

Area: Chester Racecourse

  • Family rooms
  • Free breakfast
  • Free Wi-Fi
Check rates on Booking.com

Restaurants

Hickory's Smokehouse Chester

A lively American-style smokehouse with a dedicated kids menu and often a small cinema room for children.

Cuisine: American BBQ

  • Baby Back Ribs
  • Brisket
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Pizza Express Chester

A family favourite known for its Piccolo menu, highchairs, and fun activity sheets to keep kids entertained.

Cuisine: Italian (Pizza)

  • Dough Balls
  • Classic 'American Hot' Pizza
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The Botanist Chester

A beautiful restaurant with a vibrant atmosphere and a specific children's menu, offering a more upscale but still welcoming family dining experience.

Cuisine: Modern British

  • Hanging Kebabs
  • Sunday Roasts
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Piccolino

An authentic Italian restaurant with a kids menu and a lively atmosphere, perfect for a special family meal.

Cuisine: Italian

  • Pasta dishes
  • Wood-fired pizzas
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Marmalade

A popular, casual cafe known for its delicious breakfasts, lunches, and kid-friendly snacks, with highchairs available.

Cuisine: Cafe/Deli

  • Full English Breakfast
  • Artisan Sandwiches
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