Chester

Architecture

You leave Manchester and head straight for the border of Wales. Your first stop of the day is Conwy. This must be one of the most picture-perfect harbour towns in the world. You can see a castle* perched by the sea, the ‘world’s smallest house’, and lots of cute restaurants boasting the best fish and chips. You venture along the winding, scenic roads of the Snowdonia National Park before you arrive in Betws-Y-Coed. This quaint town is known as the gateway to Snowdonia and is famous for its alpine trees and cosy cafes. Chester is your next stop. This is one of England’s most historic towns, which means there are a lot of things to do here. We advise you to go straight to the ancient cathedral and learn about its remarkable past.

From the moorings at The Groves, Chester, you will head upstream under the Queen's Park Suspension Bridge and past the city's rowing clubs. You will then follow the sweeping bend of the Earl's Eye, passing some stunning riverside properties, and turn around at the city limits. On the return journey, the commentary details the history behind some of the more interesting riverside buildings, and the city's rich Roman, Medieval, and industrial heritage. The cruises will then finish with a great view of Chester Weir and the Old Dee Bridge, before disembarking back at The Groves.

No city in Britain is richer in terms of archaeological and architectural treasures than Chester, the Walled City on the River Dee. The City Sightseeing Chester Open Top Bus Tour will introduce you to the City Walls, the Cathedral, Roman Amphitheatre and much, much more. Discover how Chester has survived and prospered through the ebb and flow of history as you are transported around the city. Just as Chester's history has been linked with the River Dee, so it is with the Chester Tour. The bus crosses the Dee by both the Grosvenor and Old Dee Bridges and at The Groves provides a convenient connection with the river cruises operated by Bithell's Boats. Tour Stops: 1) Chester Bus Interchange 2) Foregate Street 3) City Road 4) Chester Railway Station 5) St. John's Church, Vicar's Lane 6) The Groves 7) Pepper Street 8) Grosvenor Street 9) Handbridge 10) Lower Bridge Street 11) Nicholas Street 12) Chester Racecourse, The Old Port

Discover the major sights of North Wales as you travel away from Manchester on a guided tour with live commentary. Admire the scenery of the Snowdonia National Park, gaze at the iconic Conwy Castle, and explore the charming village of Betws-y-Coed. Board a minibus in Manchester and look forward to a day of exploring the Snowdonia National Park. Starting off with Conwy, this historic seaside town is filled with character and history. Wonder around, popping into the shops or having a walk down to the harbour. The market town is filled with rich history and is made famous by the mediaeval Conwy Castle that overlooks the sea. Next we'll head to Llanberis Slate Museum where you can discover more of Wales' rich heritage. Before enjoying a ride along a heritage railway, the Llanberis Lake Railway, which takes passengers along the side of the lake with views of the mountains that surround the area. Then we'll drive over Pen-y-pass, this drive truly is spectacular with the breathtaking landscape. There'll be plenty of photo opportunities for you and a chance to see the incredible scenery. Then finally we'll arrive in the village of Betws-y-coed. This will be a chance for you to have a good wonder around and explore the picturesque Welsh village. It has been a place of inspiration for authors and artists for centuries. After a day of exploring we'll make our way back to Manchester.

Leave the Roman city of Chester and travel to Wales on a 90-minute, fully-narrated journey arriving at Llandudno. Visit the 12th-century hidden chapel of St. Tudno on the Great Orme. Next is the walled town of Conwy, constructed in 1283 with a fabulous 3/4-mile wall circuit. Go inside Conwy Castle, a gritty, dark-stoned fortress built by James of St. George in partnership with Frenchman Richard The Engineer. Afterwards, head to Snowdonia National Park using carefully-selected, off-the-beaten-track routes with a stop at the so-called “capital of North Wales,” Betws-Y-Coed prayer house in the woods. Finally, take the unique opportunity to experience the Pontcysyllte Canal Aqueduct, built by Sir Thomas Telford between 1795 and 1805. Prepare to be entertained and informed by your experienced guide and driver along the way.

If you like ghostly goings-on and spooky stories, then this walking tour around the centre of the historic city of Chester offers tantalising tales of the supernatural. We’ll visit some familiar landmarks — but don't expect a dry history lecture. I know my home city well and will be highlighting some of the hidden corners that you don't find on typical tours. After all, I'm a local boy and I’ll be sharing my insider knowledge. On this tour, you’ll hear about: • Roman soldiers still guarding their historic garrison • The grisly tale of Chester's last public execution • The ghostly monk that haunts the city's spookiest passageway • Chester's only official exorcism Allow one hour for this walk. There are plenty of cafes and bars along the route for a quick coffee stop. Whether it’s your first time in the city or you’re a local keen to learn more about your home, Haunted Chester is the perfect way to see it in a different light.

This full-day adventure departs from Chester and heads straight towards the luscious countryside. Admire the views as you travel to the UK’s largest national park, the Lake District, stopping at the underground Rheged Discovery Center along the way. During the partially narrated 2-hour journey to the Lake District, the tour also stops by the famous Castlerigg Neolithic Stone Circle where you can feel ancient, mythical energy flowing around you. Afterwards, continue onto Grasmere Village which boasts an array of beautiful 19th-century architecture, as well as the grave of well-known poet William Wordsworth. Afterwards, let your nose lead the way to Sarah Nelson’s Gingerbread Shop, where you can taste a selection of traditional sweet treats from the region. After you’ve filled up on gingerbread, it’s time to explore the national park and navigate through the Langdales, also known as “Little Switzerland.” As you wander around the park, marvel at the breathtaking views that sprawl across the landscape, which offer some of the most dramatic and diverse scenery in the UK. Throughout the tour, there are plenty of stops to make the most of your trip to the Lake District. One of the highlights of the day includes an amble around Blea Tarn before a stop at Ambleside where you can get lost in the maze of twisting streets or shop at a selection of picturesque stores.

Leave the hustle and bustle of the city behind and explore North Wales for the day. With a drive through stunning landscapes and picturesque villages, you’ll see the beauty of North Wales in all its splendour. Leaving Chester behind we stop in the historic town of Conwy, here you’ll see the magnificent 13th century Castle that stands tall above the town. You’ll have some time to explore and take in the sights and attractions that make the coastal town such a popular visitor destination. After a roam around the town, we’ll head off to explore the incredible Snowdonia National Park, stopping at different points they’ll be plenty of opportunities for photo stops and for you to really enjoy this beautiful national park. Heading to the National Slate Museum we’ll discover the fascinating history and heritage of the country; the Victorian workshop was built at the base of the Snowdonia Mountain. Afterwards we’ll head to Llanberis Lake Railway, where you can sit and relax and enjoy the views along Lake Pardarn in the heart of Snowdonia. (Please note the train ride is only included in March-November). We then head to the charming Welsh village of Betws-y-Coed situated in the heart of the National Park. The village, which was once a place for pilgrims, became a hub for artist and authors who took inspiration form the scenery and landscapes that surround it. It’s a wonderful stop on the tour and a great place for some free time to explore. We’ll then be heading back towards Chester and back to reality after a day of discovering this incredible part of the world.

Embark on a self-guided treasure hunt for a fun and unique way to explore Chester. Receive messages to a phone from Captain Bess, a snarky pirate testing out new recruits to join her ship. Travel Captain Bess's carefully designed route through the city. Follow the treasure maps to get to the right place, then try to decipher the clue. Search high and low for the answer and see hidden sights usually missed by tourists. Ask for a hint to continue the journey through the city if the clues get too tough. Start at the front of Chester Town Hall and sneak through tiny alleys and Victorian streets, passing the peaceful riverside and Roman ruins. Learn interesting facts and hear stories along the way about the sights along Bess's route and get a better understanding of the history of Chester. Get ready to explore Chester in a new way through this fun and interactive treasure hunt.

You will be met by a representative of the local partner at Liverpool Cruise Terminal and shown to your vehicle that will transport you under the River Mersey, passing beneath your ship on the 45-minute short hop to Chester. Upon arrival, you will have a fully guided tour of Chester taking in the site of a Roman Amphitheatre, Norman Era Defensive Walls, views of the River Dee which gave Chester its means of trade with the rest of the world hundreds of years ago before passing by buildings dating back to the Tudor and Georgian era with Victorian architecture mixed in for good measure. You will see the famous Rows which is Chester's unique shopping experience before finally reaching the centre of the City - Chester Cross. From here you will have free time to wander the streets of this historic City and sample some of the flavours that makes Cheshire so loved by many, including Cheshire Cheese and local Ales. Finally, with bags laden with souvenirs (and some delicacies picked up at the various food stores) you will be transported back to the Port in Liverpool. If time allows, you may even get to meet the Fab Four before being dropped back at the Cruise Terminal