At the University of Chester, we are very proud about being situated in the heart of the North West! There are many exciting events and festivals throughout Cheshire that are bound to float your boat, so we have put together a list of our top things to do in Cheshire this summer.

1. As voted for by you – Chester Zoo is Chester’s number one attraction according to TripAdvisor, and the number one favourite zoo in the UK. Chester Zoo has undergone a large renovation project over the past few years and will continue to renovate in the years ahead, so even if you’ve been before, there’s always something new to see.
    
2. Chester is home to the very exciting Grosvenor Open Air Theatre which always produces an incredible variety of different shows each summer in its glorious outdoor theatre. The performances are highly regarded as being professionally executed and always create a truly entertaining experience. If you’re under 26 then you are able to claim £7 off the full price tickets.
    
3. Open Air Cinema – Located in the historic Roman Gardens, this charming pop-up cinema features a variety of popular films throughout the summer. Don’t forget to take a blanket or some chairs and you’re more than welcome to take your own picnic.
    
4. Creamfields – This multi-award-winning festival is based in Daresbury, just outside of Warrington and held over the August bank holiday, the perfect way to end your summer. The line-up features some of the biggest names in the dance and electronic music scene and a great chance to enjoy a lively atmosphere in the summer sun! You can purchase either a day ticket or stay for two, three or four days' camping. Don’t worry – if camping isn’t for you, then there is a ‘Dreamfield’ which takes glamping to another level!
    
5. Foodies Festival. Tatton Park’s feast for foodies includes a fantastic line-up of bands, chefs, over 30 food stalls, a drinks theatre, and plenty more to discover at the UK’s largest food festival!
    
6. Cheshire Fest – Release those festival vibes and head on over to Manchester Rugby Club (Stockport) where you can expect a fantastic music line-up and delicious food and drinks, including a mini-beer fest and a gin garden!
    
7. Boat rides on the River Dee – Whether you like paddle boats, rowing boats, motor boats or a river cruise, the River Dee has a boat for you! You can either hire a boat or have a relaxing boat trip.
    
8. Warrington Contemporary Arts Festival – This is a 12 month festival organised by Culture Warrington. This edition’s theme is about The History of the Future and will exhibit a range of contemporary arts including shows, photography, paintings, conceptual work, and gallery talks.
    
9. Go Ape! – Take a leap and visit the delightful Delamere Forest, which includes a high ropes activity course 12 metres above the ground, situated in the trees.
    
10. Pub In The Park – This three-day food festival gathers the most delicious food the country has to offer. Not only will there be plenty of gastro pub pop-ups and bars, expect masterclasses and demos from award-winning chefs, plus live music from the likes of Scouting For Girls, Razorlight, and Tom Odell.
     

If you love the thrill of attending festivals and events, have you ever thought about organising them? Why not take a look at the courses run by our Department of Marketing, Tourism and Events Management? Our university courses are taught by industry experts who have the in-depth knowledge required in order for students to succeed at organising and managing a range of exciting events. The University of Chester welcomes prospective students throughout the year – so you can always visit us this summer or autumn and take a look at our facilities and everything else that Chester has to offer.