Chester is a lovely city known for its Roman walls and historic architecture. Located on the banks of the River Dee in the county of Cheshire, it’s one of the most popular destinations in Northern England. One of the best times to visit and stay at one of the hotels in Cheshire is during the holiday season, as the city really comes to life with Christmas charm.
So, what can you look forward to during a Christmas visit to Chester? The good news is that this city hosts a lot of great activities throughout the Christmas season. Here are some of the best events you can enjoy in Chester this Christmas.
The Christmas Tree Festival
November 26, 2016 – January 8, 2016
The Christmas Tree Festival at the stunning Chester Cathedral is an event that the community looks forward to every year. The cloisters of the cathedral are filled with more than 50 majestic trees, decorated with seasonal sparkle. Of course, the Chester Cathedral should be on your list of places to see on any visit to Chester, as this is one of the most impressive and beautiful buildings in the city.
Each of the trees is decorated by the local schools and businesses across Cheshire. Walking through the twinkling trees with the soaring ceiling of the cathedral above is a truly magical experience.
Chester Kidsmas
November 18th – December 24, 2016
Chester has its own children’s Christmas festival and it is great fun for families. All of the activities within the festival are free, so this is a great event if you are travelling on a budget. Some of the events ask for donations, which will go to charities in Chester.
For example, you can attend Santa’s workshop where kids can make their own festive crafts and cards and get to meet Santa himself. Donations will go to the Claire House Children’s Hospice. After all, Christmas really is all about the kids and there is nothing like the wonder of seeing the magic of this season through the eyes of a little one.
Chester’s Christmas Voices Music Festival
November 24th – December 1st
Nothing gets you in the Christmas mood better than a choir of beautiful voices singing holiday songs. This festival will feature a series of pop-up singing performances all over the city center by choirs of all ages. This is a wonderful festival and when you get into the music it will be hard not to sing along.
Christmas at Chester Zoo
25-27 November, 2 & 3 December, 9-11 December, 16-23 December
Chester Zoo really gets in the Christmas spirit with a winter lantern display. Also, your little ones will see lots of puppets and festive characters during their zoo visit – and may even catch a glimpse of Santa on his sleigh. Tickets to the zoo during these special days are limited, so make sure that you book well in advance.
Cheshire Oaks Designer Outlet
Open All Year
If you are looking for somewhere to pick up some of your last minute Christmas gifts, or grab a few treats for yourself, this designer outlet will offer you great deals and will be open for late night shopping until 9pm during the Christmas season.
Also, it will host special events throughout the Christmas season such as a ski-themed beer area selling German beer, hot chocolate and crepes. Also, you can see the biggest walk-in Christmas Tree in Europe from the 9th of November to the 1st of January. It is as tall as 7 buses and is decorated with over one hundred thousand baubles. You can actually walk inside the tree itself and marvel at the many lights.
What Will You Do in Chester This Christmas?
These are just a few of the many things that you can do in Chester this Christmas. With so many events to enjoy, Chester is a great place to take a holiday this winter. There are plenty of Chester hotels that will be decorated for the season and filled with Christmas cheer, so you will have lots of options for where to stay when visiting the city. Your hotel or conference venue in Cheshire may even have special Christmas deals or events, so check with them before you book your trip. Happy travels and happy holidays!