When in... Chester
When in... Chester
In June 2016, we opened our 15th UK store in one of Britain's best preserved wall cities, Chester. Loved for its cobbled streets, medieval architecture, and affluence, we thought we'd share some of our favourite spots so you can make the loveliest day of it.
To do
Unsurprisingly, there's a fair bit of culture to experience in this 2000 year-old settlement. So if you fancy being an undercover tourist, we'd suggest taking a look at the remnants of the Roman amphitheatre (free entry) as well as visiting the ancient abbey of Chester Cathedral. Or depending on which direction you're coming from, a stop-off at Beeston Castle and Woodland Park (roughly 30 minutes outside of the city centre) is well worth considering.
To eat
The Chef's table. This is a place that's all about seasonal dining with a menu that changes almost daily. They work with a team of harvesters called The Natural Veg Men and offer lunch, dinner and an afternoon drop-in for tea or coffee.
The Yard. Family-owned, this is a modern Italian restaurant whose head chef previously worked under Gordon Ramsey. Downstairs is a swanky cocktail bar should you feel like an evening tipple post-shopping and the décor is punchy and contemporary with lots of exposed brickwork.
Joseph Benjamin.This is such a gem. Ran by two brothers (Ben and Joe Wright, hence the name), they've created a smart yet laidback environment with the most delicious British-European menu. We love it for breakfast, lunch and dinner.
The Jaunty Goat. If you're just looking for coffee and cake, look no further than this independent and a little bit cool coffee shop.
To shop
The Rows. Unique to Chester, these half-timbered galleries make up a second row of shops along some of Chester's most popular streets. There's no where else in the world built this way, so they're not only a fabulous place to shop but they're another historic landmark to tick off on your list.
Nicholas & co. This independent boutique does a little bit of everything. While some of it isn't quite to our taste, we've spied many a gorgeous antique in its vintage section so always make time to stop off when we're in the area.
Penhaligon's. Founded back in 1870, Penhaligon's is one of the truest perfume houses that blends its own exclusive scents here in England. You can find them dotted around the country but its Chester store is one of our favourite settings.
Castle Galleries. This is such a warm and inviting place to explore original and limited edition fine art from some of the country's most talented artists.
Harriet & Dee. A sweet, family-run business that is full of all sorts from the elegant to the unusual.
Neptune Chester
