Day Out in Chester

It's one of the most stunning places in the area, and Go Ape allows you to take in the picture-postcard scenery of Blakemere Lake from high up in the trees. Tiny Tarzans will also be in their element here at the Tree Top Junior Adventure the perfect way for your little monkeys to enjoy the great outdoors. But after you've been to Go Ape, what's there to do nearby? Well, luckily enough, the trendy city of Chester is just a stone's throw away, offering plenty of opportunities for you to continue your monkey business, to create memories of those perfect family days out.

WHERE TO GO?

The Rows

One of the main reasons visitors are drawn to Chester is to experience the Rows a series of two-levelled arcades that fan out in every direction from the Central Cross. This, along with Eastgate Clock, has become the most photographed sights in the UK after Big Ben, and it's easy to see why. The architecture is a stunning mix of Victorian and Tudor, and they house a lovely range of independent shops and boutiques. A far cry from a modern shopping mall, this is the way to shop in style.

WHAT TO DO?

Walk the Walls

The best way to get a feel for this bustling city and all its character is to walk the two-mile circuit along the walls surrounding the centre. The walls were built by the Romans around AD 70. While they were altered quite majorly in the centuries that followed, they have remained in the same position since 1200. Look down on the old city and overlook Chester Racecourse and the Welsh mountains beyond.

WHERE TO EAT?

Chez Jules

When a restaurant is constantly busy, you know it must be doing something right. Chez Jules is reliably good and has a welcoming and buzzing atmosphere. With red checked table cloths and antique-looking chairs, Chez Jules plays homage to a traditional French bistro. Look out for their special lunch and dinner deals as prices can be extremely reasonable from as little as £8.50 for two courses at lunchtime. As a result, it was voted Top 10 Budget Eats by the Guardian.

AND SOMETHING FOR A RAINY DAY?

Grosvenor Museum

Perfect for a damp-day look at Chester's fascinating history. It's not a huge museum, but it's home to carefully-picked items that illustrate the city's history and heritage. What's more, there's no charge to get in. There are plenty of collections to look at, but it's the Roman stuff you've probably come here for.