If you have 7 days to spend in Chester, here are some suggestions on how to spend your time:
Day 1: Start your trip by exploring the city's historic walls, which were built by the Romans over 2,000 years ago. The full circuit takes around 2 hours to walk, but you can break it up into smaller sections if you prefer. From the walls, head to the Eastgate Clock, one of Chester's most iconic landmarks, and explore the nearby shopping streets. Finish off the day with a visit to Chester Cathedral.
Day 2: Spend a day at Chester Zoo, one of the UK's largest and most popular zoos. It has over 21,000 animals and 500 different species, so give yourself plenty of time to explore. The zoo is open from 10am-5pm, but some areas close earlier, so check the website before you go.
Day 3: Head out of the city for a day trip to the nearby Tatton Park, which has over 1,000 acres of gardens, woodland and parkland to explore. See the stunning Japanese Garden and Mansion, or hire a bike and ride around the park. The park is open from 10am-5pm, and admission fees vary depending on which attractions you want to visit.
Day 4: Learn more about Chester's history by visiting the Grosvenor Museum and the Dewa Roman Experience. The former houses collections of Roman tombstones, medieval carvings and more, while the latter is an interactive museum where you can experience life as a Roman solider. Allow around 1-2 hours at each attraction.
Day 5: Take a boat trip along the River Dee, which runs through Chester, for a different perspective on the city. Boats run from The Groves and last around 30 minutes. On the opposite side of the river, you'll find the Chester Meadows, which have been designated a Site of Special Scientific Interest due to their range of habitats and species.
Day 6: Visit Chester Racecourse, one of the oldest racecourses in the UK, which hosts meetings throughout the year. If there aren't any races on during your trip, you can still take a tour of the course and see behind the scenes. Allow around 2 hours for a tour.
Day 7: Finish your trip with some relaxation time. Escape to one of the city's spas for a massage or facial, or take a stroll along the banks of the canal. Alternatively, head to Chester's Rows for some last minute shopping - these unique covered walkways are home to a mix of independent and high street stores.
For places to stay, there are plenty of options in and around Chester to suit different budgets. The Chester Grosvenor is a luxurious 5-star hotel located in the heart of the city, while the Premier Inn Chester City Centre is a more affordable option. If you're looking for something a little different, try booking a stay at a local B&B or self-catering cottage in the Cheshire countryside.