Towards the end of last year I met my two best friends in Chester. They’re at universities at opposite ends of the country, so getting the three of us together is rare.
My family had recommended it, and the train was under £50 return for three — the catch being a very early start and a late finish. Plenty of time to explore.
Early in the old town
Two short train rides and just over an hour later, we walked into the city in the morning glow. First stop, hot chocolate — it was single digits.
I love towns early. We arrived just after nine, as the shops opened after Boxing Day, and had the streets almost to ourselves. No maps — we just wandered up and down streets and back lanes.
An old-world town, trapped in the past, with modern shops inside — the mix of old and new is what makes it.
Old and new
I’d only ever been to Chester for the zoo — the most visited in the country, with over 15,000 animals. The town reminds me of Shrewsbury, another I love.
Walking the walls
In the afternoon we walked the city walls, with views over the whole city. Everyone asked if I saw the racecourse. I never did — or I did and didn’t realise.
The day ended at a very cold station waiting for a train that never came. We caught another. Still such a fun day.
Good to know
Train
Under £50 return for three
Early and late times are cheapest.
Timing
Go first thing
Quiet streets just after nine.
Also
Chester Zoo
Over 15,000 animals and 500 species.
