Things To Do In Cheshire

Be inspired with our guide to the best things to do in Cheshire. Whether you are visiting for a weekend or longer holiday, this North Western county has plenty to offer from ancient ruins steeped in history, to city streets with interesting shops, to miles of picturesque canals. If you visit Cheshire, you won’t be stuck for things to do come rain or shine.

This English county combines expansive countryside – ideal for your next luxury cottage stay – with charming villages, well-heeled towns and the famous walled city of Chester, plus also offers close links to the major cities of Liverpool and Manchester.

You might also like to read about the best places to visit.

When you are ready to book your perfect place to stay, choose from our handpicked collection of luxury cottages in Cheshire.

1. Roman Ruins

One of Cheshire’s most unique attractions is its preserved Roman history. There are host of remnants from the Roman era, which history buffs can enjoy in its most famous city, Chester.

The former Roman fort still has city walls that visitors can walk for a taste of the past, as well as the remains of an amphitheatre that is believed to have once been used for sport and – perhaps – even hosted gladiators. If that isn’t enough, the city also boasts ‘Roman Gardens’ which encompass even more ruins and historic objects.

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2. Chester Cathedral

Next on Chester’s must-see list is its towering cathedral and grounds. As well as wondering at the mix of modern and medieval architecture, and marvelling at extravagant interiors, guests can take tours, and climb to the top of the central tower for impressive views over ‘one city, two countries and five counties’.

For the little ones – and adults too – there’s also a replica of the cathedral being constructed out of lego. A Refectory Café, located in a 13th century monk’s dining hall, as well as a gift shop and carol services at selected times of year, complete the experience.

3. Tatton Park

Set back in lovely countryside, Tatton Park makes an impression. With a striking Tudor hall, a neo-classical mansion, 50 acres of landscaped gardens, a playground, a farm, and a deer park, there’s plenty to do on site.

As well as a range of seasonal events, concerts and walking trails for all the family, there’s space to cycle, picnic and spot wildlife. Highlights also include indoor exhibitions, the picturesque Japanese garden, a chance to buy local treats and products at various shops, and afternoon tea in the Gardener’s Cottage.

4. Walton Hall and Gardens

Head to Warrington to experience Walton Hall and its surrounding landscape. Elizabethan in style, it includes gardens, picnic and play areas, a pond, high ropes and adventure golf.

Enjoy both woodland and orchard strolls, walk an alpaca – and then adopt one – or stop off in the courtyard for coffee, cakes and sandwiches. It’s a great choice for children and family members of all ages.

5. Cheshire Oaks Shopping

Hit the shops like Cheshire’s local celebrities, at the Cheshire Oak’s Designer Outlet. For a different type of day, you can schlep around both high street and designer shops, to pick out the latest fashion from major brands.

When you’ve shopped until you’ve dropped, there are also plenty of options for dining, with everything from sushi and Japanese-style food, through to pizzas and Lebanese-inspired snacks.

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6. Lyme Park

No trip to Cheshire is complete if you miss the National Trust’s Lyme Park house and estate, which sits on the edge of the Peak District. As well as a mansion house and gorgeous gardens, you’ll fall in love with the deer park and chance to spot elusive wildlife.

Inside, there’s plenty to see and do – including rooms full of history, Elizabethan architecture, a clock collection, and a recreated Victorian library. Outside, among moorland, woodland and well-kept grounds there are a number of walks and dog-friendly areas too, with a number of cafes to provide warming drinks and refreshments.

7. Jodrell Bank Discovery Centre

Close to Macclesfield, you’ll find Jodrell Bank Observatory, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and home to the Lovell Telescope, which is part of the University of Manchester’s Jodrell Bank Centre for Astrophysics.

As you’d expect, there are telescopes galore here, making it a must for stargazers. Science shows, shopping, indoor and outdoor interactive exhibitions and telescope talks, as well as a cafe and play area, combine to make this a compelling attraction.

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8. Delamere Forest trails

If it’s walking you’ve come to do, and nature you’ve come to see, get out in the fresh air at Cheshire’s Delamere Forest. Covering 972 hectares, this large and wondrous segment of woodland features evergreens, a lake, and even a Go Ape! area of adventure.

Hike trails suitable for a range of abilities, or go for a ride on a Segway, at this impressive forest where dogs are welcomed. There are also a range of facilities, such as toilets, a cafe, a visitor centre, and a picnic area, as well as festive lights.

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9. Anderton Boat Lift

A rather quirky local attraction that harks back to Cheshire’s industrial heritage, the Anderton Boat Lift Visitor Centre is known as the ‘Cathedral of Canals’ for good reason.

One of the ‘Seven Wonders of the Waterways’, the lift does what it says on the tin – if lifts boats and barges for 50 feet, across the River Weaver Navigation to the Trent and Mersey Canal. As well as the structure itself, this attraction also offers seasonal boat rides – a passage through the lift itself – activities, and a coffee shop.

10. Chester Zoo

One of the UK’s most famous zoos, Chester Zoo has a history dating back to 1931 and is home to a range of animals, including lions, snakes and lemurs. As well as a nature reserve, a latin American Wetland Aviary and a Monsoon Forest, there’s a play area, lazy river boat, gardens, plenty of places to eat and drink, and even a sweet shop.