Dark Chester - Let's take a walk on the dark side
Active
1h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
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Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
A flickering candlelight into the darkest recesses of Chester’s 2,000-year heritage, illuminating tales of plague, poltergeists and religious persecution amongst others.
It’s a 90-minute walking tour, hosted early evening, and a storytelling stroll with plenty of dark humour and Horrible Histories-style tale. Dark Chester runs special tours during the Chester Heritage Festival, including visits to places associated with dark tales.Please contact me for details, and follow my Instagram @darkchestertour for images and videos from the tour.
Join me and let’s take a walk on the dark side.
Available options
Dark Chester Tour
Guided walking tour<br/>Duration: 1 hour 30 minutes<br/>Key historic sites of Chester<br/>Local expert knowledge
What's included
Guide; In-person: English
Detailed itinerary
1
Learn about the origins of the 1000-year-old spiritual site as a monastic settlement rich with superstitions.
2
The Victorian symbol of Chester — but one with a dark history.
3
The heart of Roman Chester, where gladiators fought.
4
Home to one of Chester's great mysteries.
5
Discover this mysterious building on the banks of the River Dee.
6
Join me for a story of crime and punishment on the banks of the River Dee.
7
This historic hostelry is home to a dark story about the ghosts of Chester past.
8
This historic pub has been turned into a dedicated space for paranormal investigation.
9
Stop 9
This quirky visitor attraction tells stories of plague and pandemic.
What's not included
Gratuities
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
Reviews breakdown
Tripadvisor
5.0
4 reviews
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4
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Important information
Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
Service animals allowed
Public transportation options are available nearby
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
This is a walking tour, so elder seniors or younger children may find the 90-minutes duration too tiring.
This is a public group tour, so it requires a level of mobility to stay with the group.
Meeting point
Located in Town Hall Square, the Visitor Information Centre (VIC) is between Barclays Bank and Chester Town Hall. You will see the sign "Book walking tours here".
Important notes
Please contact me for details, and follow my Instagram @darkchestertour for images and videos from the tour.
Leave a review at Tripadvisor @Dark Chester Tour.
About Chester
Chester is a historic city in North West England, renowned for its well-preserved Roman walls, medieval architecture, and unique two-tiered shopping galleries. The city offers a charming blend of history, culture, and modern amenities, making it an appealing destination for travelers interested in heritage and scenic beauty.
Top Attractions
Chester City Walls
These well-preserved Roman and medieval walls encircle the city and offer stunning views. Walking the entire circuit is a popular activity.
Historical
1-2 hours to walk the entire circuit
Free
Chester Cathedral
A beautiful example of English Gothic architecture, Chester Cathedral is a must-visit for its stunning interior and historic significance.
Religious
1-2 hours
Free entry, donations welcome
Eastgate Clock
A iconic landmark in Chester, the Eastgate Clock is a symbol of the city and a popular meeting spot.
Historical
10-15 minutes to admire and take photos
Free
Chester Zoo
One of the largest zoos in the UK, Chester Zoo is home to over 21,000 animals and is known for its conservation efforts and immersive exhibits.
Nature
4-6 hours
£25-£30 for adults, discounts for children and families
The Rows
The Rows are Chester's unique two-tiered medieval shopping galleries, offering a mix of modern and historic shopping experiences.
Architectural
1-2 hours for a leisurely stroll and shopping
Free to explore, costs vary for shopping
Must-Try Local Dishes
Cheshire Cheese
A creamy and rich cheese produced in the Cheshire region, often used in cooking or eaten on its own.
Dairy
Vegetarian
Cheshire Pork Pie
A savory pie made with pork and a distinctive crust, a traditional dish from the region.
Main Course
Contains meat
Black and White Pudding
A traditional sausage made from pork, oats, and spices, often served as part of a full English breakfast.
Breakfast
Contains meat
Popular Activities
Hiking in nearby countryside
Kayaking on the River Dee
Afternoon tea at a historic hotel
Spas and wellness centers
Visiting museums and galleries
Attending local festivals and events
Boat tours on the River Dee
Fishing in local rivers and lakes
Best Time to Visit
June to August
Summer is the peak tourist season with warm weather and various outdoor events. The city is vibrant with festivals and open-air activities.
15-22°C
59-72°F
Practical Information
Language
- Official: English
- Widely spoken: English
- English: Widely spoken
Currency
British Pound (GBP)
Time Zone
GMT (UTC+0) or BST (UTC+1) during daylight saving time
Electricity
230VV, 50HzHz
Safety Information
Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe
Chester is a safe city with low crime rates. However, as with any tourist destination, it's important to be aware of your surroundings and take basic precautions.
Important Precautions:
- • Keep valuables secure and out of sight
- • Be cautious of pickpockets in crowded areas
- • Use licensed taxis or ride-sharing services
Getting there
By air
- Manchester Airport • 45 miles (72 km)
By train
Chester Railway Station
By bus
Chester Bus Station
Getting around
Public transport
Buses are the primary form of public transport in Chester. The bus network is efficient and covers most areas of the city.
Taxis
Available • Apps: Uber, Local taxi apps
Rentals
Car, Bike, Scooter
Neighborhoods
City Center
Boughton
Hoole
Day trips
Portmeirion
40 miles (64 km) • Full day
A picturesque Italian-style village in North Wales, known for its colorful architecture and stunning gardens.
Liverpool
25 miles (40 km) • Full day
A vibrant city known for its rich musical heritage, including The Beatles, and its historic docks.
Snowdonia National Park
60 miles (97 km) • Full day to overnight
A stunning national park in North Wales, home to Mount Snowdon, the highest peak in Wales.
Festivals
Chester Christmas Market • Late November to December
Chester Food and Drink Festival • June
Chester Literature Festival • October
Pro tips
- Visit the city walls early in the morning for a peaceful walk and the best views
- Explore the Rows on both levels for a complete shopping experience
- Try local specialties like Cheshire Cheese and Black and White Pudding
- Check for special events and festivals during your visit
- Use the Chester Tourist Information Center for maps, guides, and recommendations
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
Instant confirmation
