Weekend in Chester

A free museum covering Chester's Roman, medieval, and Victorian history. The Roman gallery has a full-size legionary helmet replica and tombstones.

Tip: The Georgian house extension (on the same site) is often missed. It has a fully furnished 18th-century kitchen and nursery, free and uncrowded.

The largest Roman amphitheatre in Britain, now a partial excavation you can walk around freely. It once held up to 8,000 spectators for games and executions.

Tip: There's a small information panel near the south end. Go at dusk when floodlights come on—the mood is eerie and you'll have the place almost to yourself.

A large public park along the River Dee, with broad grass fields, a bandstand, and a children's play area. Good for a picnic or a riverside stroll.

Tip: Bring binoculars for birdwatching at the weir—you'll see swans, herons, and occasionally kingfishers. The park has free public toilets near the car park.

A nearly two-mile circuit of Roman and medieval walls ringing the city. You can walk the full route in under an hour, taking in the River Dee, the racecourse, and the cathedral.

Tip: Start at the Eastgate Clock for the best photo op. The stretch between Watergate and the Dee is quietest early morning.

A Benedictine abbey turned cathedral with a Norman nave, medieval woodwork, and modern stained glass. Entry is free, though a donation is suggested.

Tip: The undercroft café has cheap tea and a view of the cloister. Check the cathedral site for free organ recitals most Saturdays at noon.