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Being only 35 miles away from Manchester, Chester is a beautiful city in the northwest of England with a rich history and plenty of things to see and do. It's also home to some of the best walking routes in the country. Whether you're looking for a leisurely stroll or a challenging hike, there's something for everyone. Here are just a few of the best walks in Chester, UK.

1. Grosvenor Park (A City Walk)

The Grosvenor Park is a great place to start. This picturesque park is located right in the heart of the city and is perfect for a gentle stroll. If you're feeling more energetic, you can follow the park's perimeter which takes you on a lovely walk around Chester's historic city walls. The grade II, green flag winning park is over 20 acres and dates back to the mid 19th century. There are a number of restored features to explore all year round including the Billy Hobby’s Well Community Garden, St Mary’s Nunnery Arch, and the Quarry Garden. The miniature railway and fun play area mean the kids will be well worn out by the time you have finished up your afternoon tea at the Lodge Cafe. The park overlooks the River Dee and is a stunning example of a Victorian park.

2. River Dee (A City Walk)

Another great option for a peaceful walk is along the River Dee. There are several bridges that cross the river, so you can pick your route depending on how far you want to go. The views of the river and the surrounding countryside are simply stunning. This picturesque river runs through the city centre and offers some beautiful views along the way.

There are a number of different routes you can take advantage of depending on how much time you have, but we recommend starting at The Groves and following the river all the way to Queens Park. Along the way you'll be able to take in some stunning architecture, including Chester Cathedral, and if you're lucky you might even spot some wildlife too! Once you reach Queens Park, there's plenty more to explore including the pretty Japanese Garden and the popular boating lake. This is a great spot to relax and soak up the peaceful atmosphere before heading back into the city centre. If you're looking for a leisurely stroll with plenty of photo opportunities, then this is the perfect walk for you!

3. Chester Cathedral (A City Walk)

If you're looking for an easy walk with plenty of things to see, then the Chester Cathedral grounds is a great option. The grounds are beautifully landscaped and there's plenty to explore, including the cathedral itself which is well worth a visit. The team at British Pilgrimage have put some great route maps together ranging from 7-11 miles, so you can explore the Cathedral at your own pace and in as much depth as you like. When you’re tired from exploring you can have a lovely picnic on the grounds or you can stop off at the Refectory Cafe onsite for a bite to eat.

4. Countess of Chester Country Park (A Country Walk)

If you're looking for a beautiful place to take a leisurely stroll or go for an invigorating hike, look no further than the Countess of Chester Country Park. This stunning park is home to a variety of wildlife, including kingfishers and herons, and offers breathtaking views of the canal and moorland.

The park is just under 2 miles from Chester Station, but if you want to save your energy for walking around the park, the number 1 bus will take you from the station to the Countess Hospital which is under half a mile from the park entrance. Alternatively, one of the many safe and reliable taxis that wait at the station will be happy to whizz you to your destination in a little over 5 minutes.

There are plenty of different routes to explore, so you can tailor your walk to your fitness level. If you're feeling energetic, why not tackle the abandoned golf course? Or if you're after a more relaxing stroll, meander through the park's many gardens and take in the flora and fauna. There's something for everyone at the Countess of Chester Country Park, so make sure you add it to your list of must-visit places in Chester!

5. Chester Meadows (A City Walk)

If you're looking for a great place to take a hike, Chester Meadows is the perfect spot. With a riverside footpath and plenty of wildlife to spot, it's perfect for a leisurely stroll or an energetic walk. What’s more, the kids will be able to burn off all that extra energy with all the wide open spaces to run around in. And when you're done, there's plenty of nice spots for a picnic too, so the whole family and even the dog can enjoy an afternoon walking around Chester Meadows.

So there you have it, our pick of the best walks in Chester. Get out there and explore this beautiful city for yourself! What’s more, you can access all of these great walks via Chester train station, so you can leave the stress of driving at home and fully enjoy your adventure.

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