Carlotta's Favourite Places in Chester

Chester is a beautiful heritage city, and there are lots of things to do and places to check out. Whether you want to hang out with your friends, go sightseeing, or just spend a nice day out you’ll find something that you like.

Hickory’s Smokehouse

Southern American family-friendly restaurant, Hickory’s is a great place overlooking the River Dee, where you can eat with your friends and family. The atmosphere is welcoming, the setup makes you feel like you’re travelling across Texas or Kansas, the food (including gluten-free, vegan and vegetarian options) is great and the prices are quite reasonable.

The Flower Cup

The Flower Cup is an independent botanical coffee shop located in the heart of Chester. With an all-day brunch menu, a variety of hot drinks, and a wide selection of vegan options, you can find something that suits everyone’s taste. When you visit The Flower Cup you can enjoy your meal surrounded by plants that hang from the ceiling and are positioned around your table. Prices are a bit higher than in other places but trust me when I tell you it’s worth it.

Storyhouse

Based next to Chester’s Town Hall, Storyhouse is a charity open every day until late, that includes a library, a theatre, and a cinema. Throughout the entire year, there are several free activities going on, from kids crafts to Language and Culture Cafe for those that would like to practise a new language. Students love Storyhouse, as they can use the Wi-Fi, the desk spaces, and the computers for free, as well as borrow books they like. In addition, those aged between 13 and 25 they can get the free Young Storyhouse Card, a membership that includes free teas and coffees, £5 cinema tickets, discounted theatre tickets and 15% off food.

Chester Market

Newly opened in the heart of the city centre, Chester Market is a welcoming and inclusive space where you can “shop local and eat global.” There are a variety of independent local shops and food and beverage traders, and you’ll have the opportunity to dine in one of the different areas of the market with your friends or family, without having to purchase food from the same stall. The shops include, among others, a florist, a butcher, a small fish market, a pet shop and some beauty businesses. With a wide range of food options and international cuisine, everyone can find something they like, from Italian pizza and pasta to Mexican tacos, and Thai street food to Bangladeshi traditional dishes, with a range of cafes, bars and other street food stalls, including an award-winning vegan takeout restaurant.

Find out more about student life in Chester.