Places to visit in Cheshire

Places to visit in Cheshire 

Sandwiched in between the metropolis of Manchester to the north-east and the magnificent expanses of the Peak District to the south-east, Cheshire is a county that has a lot to offer visitors at all times of the year. This busy little region may not often feature on the top ten of places to visit in the UK, but we think it should! From Roman cities full of history and family days out to numerous attractions, walking and hiking opportunities and even the chance to get up close and personal with some magnificent birds of pray, Cheshire is a warm, welcoming and fun place to be all year round. Here are some of our favourite places to visit in Cheshire:

Roman Tours of Chester

Led by a ‘real’ Roman Legionnaire, this is a great way to bring history alive and entertain the kids at the same time. This is a fun way to explore one of Roman Britain’s most important centres, and perhaps slot in a little bit of boutique shopping too.

The Anderton Boat Lift

This marvel of engineering is located at Northwich and is a Victorian marvel. Built in 1875, it was designed to raise cargo boats the 50 feet between the River Weaver and the Trent & Mersey Canal. Today it’s a heritage site that still has the power to amaze, especially if you happen to be on a boat at the time. It’s also a wheelchair-friendly site, so even those with mobility issues can enjoy the experience.

Blue Planet Aquarium

Located in Ellesmere Port, the Blue Planet Aquarium lets the whole family get close to the aquatic action, thanks to a 70m-long underwater tunnel. For budding marine biologists it’s a fabulous opportunity to discover more about endangered marine animals and conservation.

Arley Hall & Gardens

Northwich is also home to Arley Hall & Gardens, a 250-year-old family mansion with some of the best formal gardens in the county. The gardens have a huge variety of roses, azaleas and rhododendrons, while the house itself has been host to a Disney film crew recently, and has been in the same family for over 550 years.

Ness Botanic Gardens

Winner of the Sustainable Tourism Award 2013, this glorious garden near Neston is an absolute delight all year round. As well as the best collection of rhododendrons and azaleas in the Northwest, it’s also home to a more exotic collection of Himalayan and Chinese plants. With outstanding views over the Dee estuary, this is a tranquil and relaxing spot that’s refreshingly crowd-free.

Cheshire festivals and events

Cheshire is home to a packed calendar of festivals and events all year round. From scarecrow festivals in February, the Tatton Park Classic Car Spectacular in May and the Foodies Festival in July, there’s plenty to keep you entertained whenever you visit Cheshire.