Chester Visitor Information Centre
Your welcoming gateway to Chester’s history, tours, and local insights, located in the iconic Town Hall.
Located in the historic Chester Town Hall, the Chester Visitor Information Centre is your essential first stop for exploring the city. It offers expert local advice, maps, guided tours, and a selection of souvenirs to enhance your visit. Friendly staff provide up-to-date information on attractions, events, dining, and shopping, making it a hub for discovering Chester’s rich heritage and vibrant culture.
A brief summary to Chester Attractions Partnership
- +447913418215
- Visit website
- Duration: 0.5 to 2 hours
- Free
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Indoor
- Mobile reception: 5 out of 5
- Monday 12 am-12 am
- Tuesday 12 am-12 am
- Wednesday 12 am-12 am
- Thursday 12 am-12 am
- Friday 12 am-12 am
- Saturday 12 am-12 am
- Sunday 12 am-12 am
Local tips
- Book popular guided tours like the Walls Walk or Chester Cathedral Tower Tour in advance to secure your spot.
- Pick up a city map and brochures here to navigate Chester’s historic sites and attractions efficiently.
- Explore the souvenir shop for unique local gifts and books that capture Chester’s heritage.
- Check with staff for up-to-date event information and transportation options including park and ride services.
- Visit early in the day to avoid crowds and get personalized recommendations from the friendly team.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
Getting There
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Bus
Regular bus services connect Chester city centre to the Visitor Information Centre, with travel times ranging from 10 to 20 minutes depending on your starting point. Tickets cost approximately £2-£4. Buses run frequently throughout the day but check schedules for evening and weekend variations.
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Train
Chester Railway Station is about 1.5 km from the Visitor Information Centre. A taxi or a 20-minute walk over mostly flat terrain will get you there. Taxis cost around £5-£8. The station is well connected to major UK cities.
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Car
Driving to Chester Town Hall offers nearby parking options, including public car parks within a 5-10 minute walk. Parking fees typically range from £3 to £10 depending on duration. Note that city centre traffic can be busy during peak hours.
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Walking
If you are staying in Chester city centre, the Visitor Information Centre is easily accessible on foot within 10 to 15 minutes. The route is flat and suitable for most mobility levels, passing through charming historic streets.
Chester Attractions Partnership location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Rain / Wet Weather
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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about Chester Attractions Partnership
A Hub of Local Expertise and Visitor Support
Situated within the impressive 19th-century Gothic Revival Chester Town Hall on Northgate Street, the Chester Visitor Information Centre serves as the city’s welcoming gateway for travelers. The centre is staffed by knowledgeable locals eager to share insights about Chester’s history, attractions, and events. Visitors can access a wide range of resources including detailed maps, brochures, and guides to help plan their itinerary effectively.Guided Tours and Themed Experiences
The centre is the booking point for a variety of walking tours that explore Chester’s layered past, from Roman and Viking heritage to medieval and Edwardian eras. Popular tours include the Walls Walk, Chester Cathedral Tower Tour, and themed experiences such as ghost tours and women of Chester walks. Private group tours can also be arranged, providing tailored historical insights and immersive storytelling.Souvenirs and Local Gifts
Beyond information services, the centre offers a curated selection of local souvenirs, books, and keepsakes that reflect Chester’s unique character. These items make perfect mementos of your visit or thoughtful gifts. The well-organized retail area complements the centre’s role as a cultural ambassador, connecting visitors with Chester’s artistic and historical identity.Community and Cultural Connections
The Visitor Information Centre acts as a cultural hub, linking visitors to Chester’s vibrant events calendar, including festivals, exhibitions, and performances. It also provides practical travel information such as bus timetables, park and ride options, and coach services. This makes it invaluable for navigating the city and surrounding Cheshire region efficiently.Architectural and Historical Significance
Housed in Chester Town Hall, the centre itself is an architectural highlight. The building’s Gothic Revival style, with its detailed stonework and grand interiors, offers a glimpse into Chester’s civic pride and historical depth. Visitors often pause here not only for practical reasons but also to admire the building’s aesthetic and historical importance.Welcoming Atmosphere and Accessibility
Open daily with convenient hours, the centre is designed to be accessible and welcoming to all visitors. The friendly staff provide personalized assistance, ensuring visitors of all backgrounds and needs can make the most of their Chester experience. Whether seeking practical travel advice or cultural enrichment, the centre is a dependable and inviting resource.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Eleanor Rigby Gravesite
10.0 km
Visit the poignant gravesite of Eleanor Rigby, the real-life inspiration behind The Beatles’ haunting song, nestled in historic Woolton churchyard.
Bridge Of Sighs
10.3 km
A haunting 1793 stone bridge where condemned prisoners took their final steps before execution—Chester's most poignant historical crossing.
Pemberton's Parlour
10.4 km
Explore Pemberton's Parlour, a striking red sandstone tower on Chester’s historic city walls, revealing centuries of medieval and Victorian heritage.
Uffington House, Chester
10.5 km
Victorian literary landmark where author Thomas Hughes built his Chester residence in 1885.
Ancient Roman Columns, Chester
10.5 km
Roman column bases marking Chester's legacy as a major legionary fortress and potential capital of Britannia.
Bonewaldesthorne's Tower
10.5 km
Medieval gatehouse controlling Chester's western defenses, standing sentinel on Britain's most complete city walls.
Chester Town Hall
10.5 km
A stunning Victorian Gothic Revival landmark, Chester Town Hall is the historic heart of Chester’s civic and cultural life.
Chester War Memorial
10.5 km
A solemn neo-medieval tribute to fallen soldiers, unveiled in 1922 within Chester Cathedral's historic grounds.
Chester Visitor Information Centre
10.5 km
Explore Chester's rich history and vibrant culture at the Visitor Information Centre, your essential resource for navigating this historic city.
Edwardian Lady Tour
10.5 km
Discover Chester's Edwardian era charm with the Edwardian Lady Tour, a captivating journey through history and architecture.
Eastgate Clock
10.6 km
A Victorian clock atop a Roman gateway, Eastgate Clock is Chester’s most iconic meeting point and one of England’s most photographed timepieces.
Eastgate St
10.6 km
Explore Chester's Eastgate Street, where history meets modern shopping in a picturesque setting filled with charming architecture and vibrant culture.
Crypt Chambers
10.6 km
Medieval crypt meets Victorian Gothic Revival in Chester's most architecturally significant commercial building.
Statue of Richard Grosvenor, Second Marquess of Westminster
10.6 km
Discover the monumental Statue of Richard Grosvenor in Chester, a testament to history and artistry surrounded by the charm of this ancient city.
Chester Cross
10.7 km
Medieval heart of Chester where Roman streets meet Tudor architecture and civic tradition.
Unmissable attractions to see
National Waterways Museum Ellesmere Port
1.3 km
Explore Britain’s rich canal heritage through historic boats, interactive exhibits, and scenic docklands at Ellesmere Port’s National Waterways Museum.
Designer Outlet Cheshire Oaks
2.3 km
The UK’s largest designer outlet with over 140 stores, festive events, and dining in a lively, family-friendly setting.
Coliseum Shopping Park
2.5 km
A bustling retail and leisure hub in Ellesmere Port offering diverse shopping, dining, and family-friendly amenities with excellent accessibility.
Blue Planet Aquarium
2.8 km
Explore Europe’s largest shark collection and immersive underwater tunnels at Blue Planet Aquarium, a thrilling marine adventure for all ages.
National Trust - Speke Hall, Garden and Estate
5.7 km
Tudor heritage meets natural beauty on the Mersey—a historic estate where gardens, woodland, and riverside walks inspire discovery.
Spirit of the Jaguar
6.3 km
Explore one of the world’s finest jaguar habitats in a lush South American-themed exhibit at Chester Zoo, home to elusive big cats and fascinating rainforest species.
Lions
6.3 km
Explore Chester Zoo's vast wildlife sanctuary, home to thousands of animals and immersive habitats, blending conservation with unforgettable family adventures.
Tropical Realm
6.3 km
Immerse yourself in the vibrant warmth and exotic wildlife of Chester Zoo’s Tropical Realm, a lush indoor rainforest habitat.
Butterflies journey
6.4 km
Step into a vibrant tropical paradise at Chester Zoo’s Butterfly Journey, home to over 30 species of free-flying butterflies and lush exotic plants.
The Chester Fields Country Pub, Restaurant & Wedding Venue
6.4 km
A charming country pub and wedding venue near Chester, blending rustic ambiance with refined dining and scenic outdoor spaces.
Aquarium
6.5 km
Explore Europe’s largest shark collection and a stunning underwater tunnel at Blue Planet Aquarium, a family-friendly aquatic adventure near Chester.
Camels
6.5 km
Encounter majestic desert dwellers at the UK's premier conservation zoo
Giant Otter
6.5 km
Discover the captivating Giant Otters of Chester in a serene, naturalistic setting perfect for wildlife lovers and families alike.
Flamingos
6.5 km
Discover the stunning Caribbean flamingos and witness rare chick hatchings at Chester Zoo’s vibrant and lively flamingo habitat.
Elephant Statue
6.6 km
A charming bronze baby elephant statue gifted by Chester Zoo, nestled in the historic streets of Chester – a delightful photo stop for all ages.
Essential places to dine
Mowgli Street Food Cheshire Oaks
2.3 km
Authentic Indian street food bursting with vibrant flavours, served in a welcoming and lively setting at Cheshire Oaks Outlet Village.
Miller & Carter Cheshire
2.5 km
Savor expertly aged British steaks and vibrant bar dining in the heart of Cheshire Oaks, Ellesmere Port’s premier steakhouse destination.
Las Iguanas - Cheshire Oaks
2.5 km
Experience vibrant Latin American flavors and cocktails in a lively, family-friendly setting at Las Iguanas, Cheshire Oaks.
The Cheshire Yeoman
6.2 km
A warm, family-run country pub in Ellesmere Port serving traditional British dishes in a relaxed and welcoming atmosphere.
5 Fifty Bistro
9.1 km
A cozy, intimate bistro on Aigburth Road serving refined European-inspired dishes in a warm, welcoming setting.
The Bird In Hand
9.3 km
A charming Chester pub blending traditional British fare with creative dishes in a cozy, welcoming village setting.
Made in Italy
9.6 km
Savor authentic Italian flavors with generous portions and warm hospitality in the heart of Chester’s vibrant dining scene.
Sticky Walnut
9.6 km
Intimate modern European bistro in Chester’s Hoole, famed for seasonal dishes, warm service, and a cozy, refined atmosphere.
The Faulkner Pub, Bar & Restaurant
9.6 km
A vibrant Hoole gastropub blending fresh local cuisine, lively bar vibes, and welcoming community spirit in the heart of Chester.
Restaurant Next Door
9.7 km
Intimate modern British dining in a historic 17th-century timber-framed building with seasonal, locally sourced menus and expert wine pairings.
Pacinos
10.0 km
Family-run Italian and Mediterranean fine dining in Chester's city centre since 1986.
Chai Station - Vegetarian vegan Indian
10.0 km
Authentic vegetarian and vegan Indian flavors in Chester’s cozy, welcoming eatery with a personal touch.
Pierogi | Handmade Polish Dumplings
10.1 km
Authentic handmade Polish dumplings in Chester’s cozy Brook Street eatery, blending tradition with fresh, comforting flavors.
Siam Thai & Teppan-Yaki
10.2 km
Experience authentic Thai flavors and captivating Japanese teppanyaki performances in Chester’s vibrant canal-side restaurant.
The Yard Modern Italian Restaurant Chester
10.3 km
A vibrant family-run modern Italian restaurant in Chester serving bold Mediterranean flavors with fresh, artfully presented dishes in a relaxed atmosphere.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
The Port Arcades Shopping Centre
2.0 km
A central shopping hub in Ellesmere Port offering diverse stores and a traditional market in a covered, accessible setting.
mirror mirror boutique
9.3 km
Find your unique style at Mirror Mirror Boutique, Chester's premier clothing shop offering trendy apparel and personalized fashion advice.
Olivia & Smith
9.6 km
Discover bespoke jewellery, stylish handbags, and unique gifts at Olivia & Smith, Chester’s charming boutique for quality and personalized service.
erj Boutique & Lifestyle
9.6 km
Discover curated womenswear, footwear, jewellery, and homeware in Chester’s vibrant Hoole at erj Boutique & Lifestyle.
Lagenlook Clothing Boutique - Pale Grey Boutique
9.9 km
Explore unique Lagenlook fashion at Chester's Pale Grey Boutique, where style and elegance meet individuality in every layer.
Queens Road Shopping Centre
10.0 km
Discover the vibrant shopping experience at Queens Road Shopping Centre in Chester, where retail therapy meets local charm.
The 2nd Floor Independent Shop
10.2 km
Discover quirky, unique fashion and gifts with friendly service in Chester’s charming independent boutique on Upper Northgate Street.
CH.ONE
10.4 km
Discover quirky, stylish bargains at CH.ONE, a unique ladies' clothing boutique in the heart of Chester's vibrant Northgate Street.
Chester Zoo at The Market
10.5 km
Discover unique wildlife gifts and support global conservation at Chester Zoo’s vibrant market stall in the heart of Chester.
The Crystal Hut New Chester Market
10.5 km
Discover the vibrant world of healing crystals and spiritual gifts at The Crystal Hut, Chester’s colorful gem in Exchange Square market.
Lee Louise Chester Ltd
10.5 km
Discover Chester’s oldest timber-framed shop, a vibrant treasure trove of crystals, holistic gifts, and unique fashion in a historic 1571 building.
The Gift Shop
10.5 km
Unique gifts and novelties in the heart of historic Chester's medieval city center.
Lily Vintage Boutique
10.5 km
Discover timeless style and unique vintage fashion at Lily Vintage Boutique in Chester’s historic St Werburgh Street.
Foxy Frox Boutique
10.5 km
A stylish women’s clothing boutique in Chester’s historic center, offering contemporary fashion with a personal touch and a relaxed, independent vibe.
Church Gifts Shop
10.6 km
Discover meaningful religious gifts in Chester’s historic heart at the welcoming Church Gifts Shop on Eastgate Street.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Under the oak bar
2.5 km
Cozy bar retreat in Ellesmere Port’s Cheshire Oaks, blending local ales, live music, and a friendly atmosphere for shoppers and visitors alike.
The Lodge Bar
9.5 km
A cozy Chester bar blending classic pub charm with modern cocktails and fine wines in the vibrant Hoole district.
The Deva Tap
9.9 km
Discover Chester’s quirky craft beer gem with a vibrant atmosphere, diverse brews, and a welcoming beer garden on Brook Street.
The Old Harkers Arms
10.2 km
A cozy canalside pub in Chester blending historic charm, quality ales, and classic British fare in a vibrant, welcoming atmosphere.
The Cornerhouse
10.3 km
A lively Chester bar blending craft beers, live music, and a welcoming vibe for memorable nights and celebrations.
City Tavern
10.4 km
Historic Chester pub blending traditional charm with lively entertainment, great food, and a vibrant community atmosphere.
Revolution Chester
10.5 km
Lively cocktail bar and restaurant in Chester city centre, perfect for socialising, dining, and celebrations with expertly mixed drinks and vibrant atmosphere.
Brewhouse & Kitchen - Chester
10.5 km
Chester’s vibrant brewpub serving award-winning craft beers, hearty British classics, and a lively community atmosphere on Love Street.
Metronome Jazz Bar
10.6 km
Chester’s intimate jazz bar with live piano, vinyl classics, and a warm, candlelit atmosphere for a perfect night out.
Music Hall Tap
10.6 km
Chester’s lively craft beer pub with rustic charm, live sports, and a vibrant social scene in the heart of the city.
Red Door
10.6 km
Vibrant late-night cocktail bar and restaurant in Chester’s city center, known for creative drinks and lively music.
Watergates Bar
10.7 km
Historic 12th-century crypt pub in Chester city centre, serving classic British fare and real ales in a lively, family-friendly atmosphere.
Palm Cocktail Bar & Eatery
10.7 km
Chester’s vibrant cocktail bar with expertly crafted drinks, lively atmosphere, and friendly service on historic Watergate Street.
Havana Chester
10.7 km
Lively Cuban-inspired bar and restaurant on Chester’s historic Watergate Street, offering vibrant music, tapas, and creative cocktails.
Prohibition
10.7 km
Step into Chester’s Prohibition for expertly crafted cocktails and a vibrant 1920s speakeasy vibe in a cozy, intimate setting.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Mandy & Graham’s
8.5 km
Experience Chester’s vibrant nightlife at Mandy & Graham’s, where pulsating beats and lively crowds create unforgettable party nights.
Rosies - Chester
10.6 km
Experience Chester’s vibrant nightlife at Rosies, a multiroom club with rooftop terrace, VIP lounges, and cutting-edge sound over three lively floors.
Cruise
10.6 km
A multi-floor nightclub in Chester offering vibrant music, premium drinks, and lively nightlife across seven bars.
BONOBO Bar & Canteen
10.7 km
A vibrant two-floor bar and canteen in Chester blending American eats, cocktails, video games, and lively music for a unique nightlife experience.
Chester City Club
10.7 km
Experience Chester’s vibrant nightlife at City Club, where modern beats meet historic charm in the heart of St Peters Churchyard.
The Establishment
12.7 km
A vibrant Widnes nightclub offering lively events, friendly staff, and a spacious venue for unforgettable nights out.
Supper Club at Blundell Street
14.4 km
Liverpool's ultimate supper club: fuel up on hearty meals, then dance the night away to drag shows, tributes, and non-stop hits near Echo Arena.
The Blue Angel Nightclub
14.5 km
Liverpool's dingy dive for 60s rock legends, dirt-cheap drinks, and sweaty throwback dances—where The Beatles once rocked and students still rage till dawn.
Cool It
14.7 km
A multi-level, student-friendly nightclub on Seel Street offering loud DJ nights, bargain entry and packed late‑night dancefloors.
Heebie Jeebies
14.7 km
Liverpool's eclectic nightlife heart: multi-level bar, live music basement, courtyard hangs, and anthemic nights until dawn on Seel Street.
EBGBS
14.7 km
Liverpool's gritty basement nightclub where live indie gigs, craft cocktails, and underground vibes fuel epic nights until 4am in the heart of Seel Street.
Pure Nightlounge
14.7 km
Liverpool’s boutique R&B nightspot with VIP booths, tight dancefloor energy and a late-night, fashion-forward vibe.
BrooklynMixer
14.7 km
Liverpool's original R&B haven on Seel Street: three floors of hip-hop beats, craft cocktails, leather lounges, and private party vibes from dusk till dawn.
Ink Bar Liverpool
14.8 km
Liverpool's premier R&B and house nightclub, where stylish cocktails, thumping beats, and luxury vibes fuel unforgettable nights on Wood Street.
Baa Bar Liverpool
14.8 km
Two floors of house and R&B beats, £2 shooters, and courtyard vibes in Liverpool's nightlife epicenter—perfect for students and party-hoppers alike.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Relaxing
- Scenic
- Lively
- Unique
- Casual
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Vintage Styles
- Rustic Designs
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Architectural Shots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Locally Managed
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Day Trip
- Weekend Getaway
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Pet Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Female Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly