This Christmas needn’t break the bank. It can be a costly time of the year, but in Chester there is no need to worry.
There is a plethora of free and affordable activities, events and attractions home to Chester this Christmas. You can get in the festive spirit without worrying about the budget.
Here is a useful guide to budget-friendly things to do in Chester this Christmas:
Chester Cathedral
Chester Cathedral is a must-visit during Christmas. Entry is free and you can admire the stunning architecture and festive decorations. The cathedral also hosts seasonal concerts, services and the famous Christmas tree display.
The Christmas Tree Festival consists of 90 trees dressed festively within the cathedral. It is just £5 per adult, £1 for children and free for under 5s. This will take place from November 22 to January 5.
Additionally, the Cathedral hosts showings of ‘The Snowman’, accompanied by a live orchestra with tickets starting at just £13.
Explore shops on the Chester Rows
Chester’s famous architecture, known as the Rows, are not only a great spot for budget-friendly Christmas shopping with small, independent shops lining them, but also a historical treasure.
Explore the multi-storey terraces and open galleries that date back centuries, while finding unique gifts along the way. To explore this area further, a special Audio Tour to learn more about the history of these iconic streets, which were built on the foundations of the Roman fort Deva Victrix, can be taken. The tour takes a circular route around the historical buildings and urban landscape.
As you stroll through the streets, you can also take in Chester’s festive light displays. The city walls, historical building and streets will be twinkling with decorations.
Markets
Wander through Chester’s charming Christmas Market, set in the heart of the city by the Town Hall, to soak in the festive atmosphere, browse handmade gifts and sample festive treats. Entry to the market is completely free and you can window shop or enjoy the festive decorations without any pressure to spend. There will be 70 stalls brimming with goods from November 15 up until December 22.
Market Hall
If you’re looking for a delicious meal without breaking the bank, head to the award-winning Chester Market. This vast hall is a great place to eat, offering a wide selection of international cuisine, including pizza, pasta, seafood, Thai, Mexican, and vegan options.
On Tuesdays, there are offers and deals from the venders. This includes two wraps or burgers for £15 and 20% off at select stalls, making it a great spot for budget-conscious diners this Christmas.
Parades
Chester is hosting four completely free parades in the run up to Christmas:
21 November – 12 Days of Christmas Parade
28 November – Lanterns Parade
5 December – Winter Watch
12 December – Saturnalia Parade
These annual parades are some of the best budget-friendly activities for the whole family or friends to enjoy the Christmas spirit. They light up the streets of Chester bringing together Romans, fantastic lights, lively characters, more unforgettable spectacles and, of course, festive cheer.
Cheshire Oaks
Chesire Oaks is a designer outlet near Chester with great deals near to Christmas. Christmas shopping is made easy with discounts such as 60% off on luxury brands. With free parking or a cheap bus fare starting at just £3.30, budget-friendly Christmas gifts are just a hop away.
Accommodation
With all these budget friendly activities to do, it might be worth extending the festive fun by staying overnight. Consider Moxy Chester, a modern hotel known for its quirks, with a free welcome drink and pet-friendly options. For families, Roomzzz is ideal, offering studio apartments with kitchenettes, located near the racecourse for easy city access.
Travel
From weekends leading up to Christmas, you can park for free at Chester Racecourse Car Park, courtesy of ChesterBID. This free city centre parking makes visiting Chester even more affordable during the busy festive period. Alternatively, you can save on parking fees by using Chester’s Park & Ride service, or take the stress out of driving altogether by travelling by train. Regular services run to Chester from Cardiff, Shrewsbury, Birmingham, and more. Book early to save on train fares with Transport for Wales.
So, whether it’s free or cheap things to get in the Christmas spirit, Chester has a host of events and offers to help out from markets to food to shopping to history and the cathedral.
You can find out more about what’s going on in Chester this Christmas thanks to Chester.com.
