There are a number of fantastic popular attractions available to enjoy throughout the year in and around Chester for the whole family, whatever your budget.
From exciting shark encounters to thrilling forest free-falls, read on for some inspiration on how to make the most of the summer months, whether you’re a local looking for something new or just paying the city a visit.
Chester Zoo
Set just over 3 miles from the city, Chester Zoo is one of the largest zoos in the UK. It’s open all year round, come rain or shine, and boasts upwards of 35,000 animals on display, including Asian elephants, chimpanzees, giraffes, rhinos and tigers.
As well as the offer of general admission, the zoo also offers the chance to book a range of experiences, such as being a zookeeper for a day, embarking on a bird photography tour or even sitting down for a cooked breakfast in front of the lion habitat.
You can also enjoy a variety of authentic Indonesian teas, coffees, food and gifts from the House of Sumatra, whilst the Manado Kitchen offers curries, burgers and desserts with an Asian twist.
Crocky Trail
Crocky Trail is an outdoor adventure park situated on a farm just under 5 miles from Chester’s train station, featuring a number of rides with mazes, rope swings and slides for visitors to explore.
There is also the Flusher – no ordinary slide, the Flusher drops its daring passengers into a free-fall at the pull of a lever.
Activities can be accessed via purchase of a wristband that comes in two tiers; yellow for young people and red for adults and under 5s.
Food and drink is available from the Crocky Bites restaurant, but if you’re the self-catering type, you can bring your own food and enjoy a picnic on one of the grassy spots.
The Trail is open on sunny and rainy days, so be sure to dress appropriately for your visit.
The Ice Cream Farm
Aimed at younger children, the Ice Cream Farm is an attraction offering indoor and outdoor activities. These include an inflatable obstacle course, soft play areas, the chance to sift for treasure, the Silvercone mini-race track and Europe’s largest covered sand and water play area, the Honeycomb Canyon.
Budding farmers can even try a real-life mini tractor driving experience at Chuggy’s mini tractors.
As the name might suggest, the Farm also boasts an ice cream shop, which is officially recognised as the biggest of its kind by the Guinness Book of Records!.
Just under ten miles from Chester, keep a look out for their other scheduled events throughout the year.
Bewilderwood Cheshire
Bewilderwood is another outdoor experience just over 15 miles from the city, for kids who enjoy heights complete with zip lines, super slides and its very own Sky Maze.
Young adventurers can scale the Broken Bridge or wander along the Trail in search of the Witch’s House, or even just take in a relaxing tale at the Storytelling Stage.
Early bird discounts are available if you can book your visit one week or more in advance. Check the website for details.
Blue Planet Aquarium
The Blue Planet Aquarium is located just a short drive from Chester, making it conveniently accessible for families.
There are regular educational talks showcasing the various exotic animals, and you can even explore their habits, with displays themed around freshwater rivers, coral caves and the Amazon Rainforest.
The Aquarium also features the longest shark tunnel in the United Kingdom, with bookable scuba-diving experiences for adults and children to swim with the sharks.
Snacks are available at the Nautilus Kitchen, and for dessert, you can treat yourself to a scoop from the Ice Cream Parlour.
Whatever the weather, there are a whole range of fun things to do for the family in and around the historic city of Chester. To plan your visit, please check the websites of each of the above for information on pricing, upcoming events and availability.
