Synonymous with beauty are the several nooks and crannies of Europe. Be it France’s Paris or Scotland’s crown jewel, Edinburgh, these cities have always stood out for their exquisite architecture, natural beauty, and lifestyle. However, several Asian cities make it to the list, too. From Pink City Jaipur to Korea’s Seoul, pop culture has not failed to romanticise these cities.
However, a global study named the UK’s Chester as the world’s prettiest city. Based on several aspects like architecture, Chester scored an 83.7% on the golden ratio. It measures the building with principles of proportion, structure, and schema. Chester left behind Venice, which scored 83.3% and London, with an 82% golden ratio.
Mixing Roman ruins with modernity
Chester has a perfect blend of historic and contemporary architecture with architecture models like the Chester Cathedral, Britain’s largest Roman amphitheatre, the country’s oldest racecourse, and England’s most complete city walls.
Chester is more than just a city; it is a magnanimous history textbook. Part of the Roman fort in AD 79, it was a significant military base at the time. Also being a centre for trade, it gave birth to the widely known, Chester Rows. They are two-tier shops which, today, cover walkways and main streets. These black-and-white timber buildings date back to the Middle Ages.
Beating London in another aspect, Chester also houses the second-most photographed clock after Big Ben, the Eastgate Clock. It was erected to commemorate Queen Victoria‘s Diamond Jubilee. Also being an ‘International Heritage City,’ Chester is soon becoming a hyper-tourist spot.
Historical sites to visit in Chester
Tourists can visit the Agricola Tower within Chester Castle, which dates back to the 11th century. Located nearby, the Chester Roman Gardens are a popular site too. Tranquil paths, baths, and green spots will take you along a soothing journey. Here’s a three-day itinerary to visit Chester.
Day 1: Roman and Medieval Chester
Walk the full circuit of Chester’s ancient city walls for panoramic views and orientation. See the Eastgate Clock, Roman Amphitheatre and nearby Roman Gardens for a glimpse into Roman Britain. And enjoy afternoon tea at The Chester Grosvenor. Stroll along the River Dee, or opt for a boat tour before dinner at a city centre restaurant.
Day 2: Cathedral, Culture & Riverside Leisure
Start the morning by touring Chester Cathedral and the Grosvenor Museum. Enjoy Lunch in the town centre.
Day 3: Nature and Family Fun
Spend half a day at Chester Zoo, one of the UK’s top attractions (10-minute drive from the centre). If time permits, detour to Countess of Chester Country Park for tranquil nature and wildlife spotting. Wind down with dinner on Bridge Street or Northgate Street, sampling traditional Cheshire cuisine.
