Chester BID Summer Guide 2024

SUMMER SPEND IN CHESTER

Feel the warmth this summer and experience Chester, a shopping haven adorned with al fresco seating, family-friendly experiences and dog-friendly destinations.

With much-loved brands and independents for you to explore, there is truly no better place to spend this summer.

As the days become longer and the sun shines brighter, come with us and take some inspiration from our City Centre summer guide, bustling with products and experiences, handpicked by the faces behind it all.

Spend Your Chester Gift Card Here

FASHION & ACCESSORIES

Whether you're dressing for a sunny stroll along the historic streets or a stylish evening out, here are some fashion-forward pieces to stay cool, comfortable, and effortlessly fashionable all season long.

Bravissimo

Watergate Street Row

Oliver Bonas

Bridge Street

Yellow Palm Print Midi Dress | £78

Step into summer with this Yellow Palm Print Midi Dress, featuring a vibrant yellow and pink palm leaf pattern crafted in the Oliver Bonas studios. With a slip-style fit and pleats at the waist, it drapes elegantly over your silhouette. Perfect for garden parties or beach strolls, this dress celebrates the vivid beauty of sun-kissed days, reflecting the artistry and passion of their design team.

Whitsunday Polka Dot Bikini

| £44

Dive into summer with Bravissimo's fastest-ever selling bikini, making a triumphant return by popular demand! This beloved bikini features hidden underwired, bra-sized support to keep you feeling secure all day, while the adjustable tie at the front lets you customise your coverage. Choose from three matching briefs to complete your perfect beach look.

Brow HQ Bridge Street Row

Brow Spa Miracle Oil | £30

A British-made, multi-purpose summer essential, with 12 key vegan ingredients. This ethically sourced blend promotes brow growth, hydrates, thickens hair, and enhances skin barrier function. Infused with 24k gold for anti-aging, it reduces puffiness and dark circles while brightening and revitalising your complexion. Embrace ultimate selfcare this summer with Miracle Oil.

FASHION & ACCESSORIES

Nichols & Co Bridge Street Row

Lofina Suede Boot | £325

Experience the perfect blend of Danish design and Italian craftsmanship with the Lofina Suede Boot. Handcrafted for effortless elegance and comfort without the need for breaking in. With a sturdy rubber sole and timeless style, Lofina boots seamlessly elevate any outfit, making them a must-have for all occasions.

Northgate Street

Blue Aria Dress | £213

Everyone needs that one dress which they can rely on, the one you’ll always look great in the one that's effortlessly stunning! Well, this could be the dress for you. To be worn for special occasions such as The Races or a wedding, get ready to dazzle in blue.

Jigsaw

Bridge Street Row

Boxy Straw Crossbody Bag | £145

Chesca

Eastgate Street

Ivory/Pink Layered Trim Bodice

Maxi Dress | £95

This dress is fashioned from a luxurious floral chiffon with a slight stretch, giving you both elegance and comfort from daytime into evening. A frill at the yoke cascades elegantly over the bodice, making a perfect dress for a summer party or special occasion.

Elevate your summer style with this Boxy Straw Crossbody Bag, where silver reigns supreme as the colourway of the season. Crafted from natural wicker and adorned with luxe metallic leather, this bag exudes effortless elegance. Featuring exquisite goldplated studs and a removable strap for versatile styling, it seamlessly transitions from day to night with grace and sophistication.

Papena

Dr. Martens

Northgate Street

The White Company Northgate Street Row

Organic Double Cotton

Dress | £159

Contrast Embroidered Maxi

Exaggerated blouson sleeves give this pure organic double cotton dress a striking silhouette. Shaped with a deep V-neckline, it has a flattering curved seam at the waist and falls to a flowy maxi hem. It’s embellished with Mexican-inspired floral embroidery down the arms and front, and around the hem, in contrasting blue against the white fabric – a classic summertime colour palette that suits beach days and sea views.

Powells Jewellery

Eastgate Street Row

Platinum Baguette Cut

Diamond Half Eternity Ring

| £4,160

Illuminate your summer with timeless elegance by wearing this Baguette Cut Diamond Half Eternity Ring. A refined choice for your forever commitment. Meticulously crafted from platinum, 0.85 carats of exquisite baguette cut diamonds, boasting G colour and SI clarity for a dazzling sparkle.

939 Ben Boot in Crazy Horse | £160

Elevate your summer style with the timeless allure of the Dr. Martens 939 Boot. A beloved classic that has graced the fashion scene for decades, this six-eye boot is synonymous with durability, comfort, and unmistakable style — it's a symbol of rebellious spirit and enduring style, ready to accompany you on all your summer adventures.

Butchers Salon

Watergate Street Row

Aveda Botanical Hair Repair Conditioning Treatment

| £25

Get ready to shine bright this summer by visiting Butchers, Chester’s sustainable, vegan hair salon. From beachy waves to playful pixies, however you choose to get your hair styled, this treatment is a must-have addition. This Aveda treatment will strengthen and repair your hair making it visibly healthier and shinier!

FatFace Eastgate Street FASHION & ACCESSORIES

Carmen Trail Marks Maxi Dress | £75

Embrace sunny days in the Carmen Trail Marks Maxi Dress from FatFace. This lightweight, breathable dress features a stunning pattern that turns heads and a floaty shape for all-day comfort. Perfect with sandals or trainers, it’s your go-to for effortless summer style.

Cotswolds Outdoors

Foregate Street

Passenger Offroad Fleece | £94.95

This Offroad Recycled Sherpa Fleece is made for days of discovery… for those times you take the other route, leave the road or trail behind in search of something deeper. The garment features a half zip for easy wear with a ripstop map pocket for your essential carry. It's ready to roam.

Loake

Eastgate Street

Cornwall Weekend Bag | £250

Crafted from 100% real leather, this sleek and spacious bag is your perfect travel companion. Whether it's a coastal getaway or a countryside retreat, its timeless design ensures you journey in style. Embrace your wanderlust with confidence, knowing this bag embodies both luxury and durability.

Penhaligon's

Eastgate Street

Solaris | £175 100ml

Generous. Warming. An ode to the sun, reaching through time and space. A Zenith-like, lively citrus beams down to blend with powerful blackcurrant. Cedar, sandalwood and vanilla create an eau de parfum with uplifting strength and celestial grace. Let Solaris envelop you in its luminous glow, bringing the spirit of summer to every moment.

Gieves & Hawkes

St Michael's Row

Lockyer Three-Piece Suit

| £1,395 (pieces sold separately)

Crafted for special occasions and woven by English mill Alfred Brown, this three-piece suit is the perfect summer addition. Whether you’re off to The Races or even a wedding, stay on-trend and classy with this expert choice from Gieves & Hawkes.

Thursday 1 August to Saturday 31 August

British artist Liz West returns to Chester Cathedral with two stunning installations. Known for her wide-ranging works which blur the boundaries between sculpture, architecture, design and painting, West creates works that are both playful and immersive.

MAKING TRACKS IV

Mondays to Saturdays from 1 to 31 August (except 16 August)

Pete Waterman and the Railnuts will be returning with another year of Making Tracks. This time Watford Junction from the West Coast mainline is featured in minature with the 64 foot long railway. Come along and have a go at driving trains for yourself.

FOOD & DRINK

Savour the flavours of summer in Chester city centre! With a diverse array of cafés, restaurants, and bars, you'll find the perfect spot for every craving. Enjoy al fresco dining in historic surroundings, indulge in seasonal dishes made from fresh, local ingredients, and discover the best spots for a refreshing drink.

Boheme

Bridge Street

Last Chance | £14

This flamingo pink coloured cocktail will have you flocking to this indie bar and restaurant on Bridge Street. With green grapes, Campari, Stonehouse gin, lemon juice, spent Prosecco and fresh vanilla, be sure to enjoy al fresco in the sun!

The Pied Bull

The Coach House Northgate Street Northgate Street

Pan Fried Cod Fillet | £21.95

Indulge in the essence of summer by choosing this Pan Fried Cod Fillet, tantalisingly marinated in a symphony of chilli, garlic, spring onion, and ginger. Paired with velvety garlic and dill new potatoes, chorizo for that smokey kick, and bursts of sweetness from cherry tomatoes. All on a bed of decadent white wine cream sauce, topped with delicate samphire, and a drizzle of aromatic dill oil.

Pied Bull Chester Lager | £5.85

Brewed by The Pied Bull's Head Brewer, Richard, this Lager is a golden 4.1% flavourful innovation. Three weeks from grain to glass, it beautifully amalgamates the rich flavours you come to expect from such high quality ale ingredients with the refreshing chill and carbonation of your favourite lager. Best enjoyed with friends in The Pied Bull’s sun-trapped Beer Garden!

Whilst in the city you could also visit Krum Gelato, Hickory’s Smokehouse, Atina Kitchen plus even more for the perfect taste of summer

FOOD & DRINK

The Naughty Badger Bistro Bridge Street Row

Charcuterie Board | £29

With premium cured meats and artisanal cheeses, this is the perfect pick up for picnics, barbecues, or lazy days in the sun. This exquisite board promises a taste of indulgence with every bite.

Black Sheep Coffee

Northgate Street Row

Love Berries Coffee Beans | £10.59

The name says it all. Love Berries celebrates the sweetest, most complicated coffee the world has to offer. The coffee is named Mbili Twiga - which translates to ‘two giraffes’ - because it symbolises coming together, reflecting the union of the two regions of Kilimanjaro and Arusha. However you choose to serve, enjoy this flavoursome coffee with friends and loved ones…

The Flower Cup Watergate Street Row

Biscoff Affogato | £5.50

Cool off this summer with a delightful Affogato from The Flower Cup. Imagine velvety scoops of creamy clotted cream ice cream, crowned with a double shot of their rich, aromatic espresso. The perfect pick-me-up after a sun-soaked day in Chester. Find them along the flowery rows of Watergate Street.

Penne Giardiniera | £14.50

Feel transported to an Italian summer’s day with one of Carluccio’s signature dishes. Made up of crispy spinach balls with grated courgette sautéed in garlic, chilli and cheese, served with giant Pugliese penne. The beautifully buttery dish is perfect for a sunlit lunch or an elegant dinner, simply pair it with a white wine for the ultimate experience.

Carluccio's Bridge Street

Artezzan

Rack of Lamb | £36.95

Roasted 4-bone rack of succulent and tender Welsh lamb, courtesy of award-winning local butcher, Dave Joinson. Served with parmentier potatoes, caramelised shallot purée, pea velouté and a minted red wine jus. A masterpiece of culinary artistry which will elevate any gathering.

Côte Bridge Street

Baked Ratatouille | £14.50 (Prix Fixe Menu Available 2 courses £17.95 / 3 courses £21.95)

A celebration of summer’s finest ingredients… with Chèvre goat’s cheese from Centre Loire Valley and haricot beans, topped with courgette and served with a crusty sourdough baguette to ensure no flavour is left behind. A dish truly bursting with flavours from the Mediterranean.

Chef's Table Pepper Street Pepper Street

Chicken Pad Thai-ish | Lunch Offer Availble 2 courses £30

This vibrant dish reimagines a classic favourite, carefully curated by renowned Chester institution, Chef's Table. Boned, rolled, and stuffed chicken thigh, laab namtok, coconut and tamarind broth, kohlrabi. This dish is one you must try for yourself.

FOOD & DRINK

Neighbourhood Bakehouse

Northgate Street

King Prawn Linguine | £15.95

Dive into summer flavours from the sea with this coastal beauty. Succulently juicy king prawns sautéed and tossed with garlic, chilli and al dente linguine. A dish you could continue to enjoy whilst watching the world go by with a crisp, clean white wine.

North Light

Northgate Street

Raspberry Rose Sour | £9.50

If you’re feeling pretty in the sun - this is the cocktail for you! Lanique Rose liqueur, Bacardi Raspberry, prickly pear liqueur, lemon, geranium syrup and cranberry juice finished with candy floss and rose petals.

Palm

Watergate Street

Pair of Melons | £9.45

A refreshing blend that embodies the spirit of the season! Crafted with a tantalising mix of gin, lemon juice, Midori, blue curacao, pear syrup, aquafaba, and apple juice, each sip is a burst of fun and tanginess – pure summer in a glass!

EXPERIENCES

Discover unforgettable summer experiences in the heart of Chester city centre! From the open air theatre in Grosvenor Park to art installations at Chester Cathedral, comedy nights and workshops as well as tours and our classic attractions, get ready for excitement, discovery, and endless possibilities!

The Guild

Watergate Street

Experience The Guild

The Guild cocktail bar and events venue is set inside the beautiful independent conversion of the former Holy Trinity Church. Experience beautiful interiors, events, DJs and a premium cocktail menu. It's the perfect place to start and end your night!

Picturehouse

Exchange Square

Family Film Ticket | £26

See films for less with a family ticket at Chester Picturehouse! You can now bring the whole family along to Chester's newest cinema from just £26 for four tickets. With new releases like Inside Out 2 and Despicable Me 4 heading to the big screen this summer, there's never been a better time to introduce your little ones to the magic of cinema.

EXPERIENCES

That Beer Place Foregate Street

That Comedy Night | £7.50pp

Get ready for an unforgettable evening of laughter and cheer at That Beer Place's That Comedy Night, whilst sipping on their wide range of refreshing beers and ciders. That Comedy Night takes place on the last Tuesday of every month and is hosted by local Comedian, Danny Mcloughlin. Come for the comedy, come back for the camaraderie!

Pastry Pedaleur

New Chester Market

Baking Workshop | £30pp

Whether you’re a baking enthusiast or a novice looking to expand your culinary repertoire, this workshop promises to inspire and delight. Receive a delectable hands-on experience, where you’ll learn the artistry behind creating irresistible pastries from scratch. From flaky croissants to decadent éclairs, their expert instructors will guide you through each step, sharing insider tips and techniques along the way.

Visitor Information Centre

Northgate Street

The Edwardian Lady Tour | £10pp

The Edwardian period is full of appeal as it was known as the Gilded Age and is seen as a time of elegance just before the outbreak of the First World War. Be guided by Eliza the Edwardian to learn more about the campaign for female suffrage and the rebuilding of our black-and-white structures in Chester. Fun but informative, get ready to see a new aspect of our historic city.

EXPERIENCES

Suzie K

Bridge Street

Intuitive Wellbeing Treatment

| £40 hourly

Go beyond the experience of the Suzie K shop and experience the Intuitive Wellbeing Treatment. Suzie aids her clients in identifying where they are in their life journey. Using a mix of crystal therapy, reiki and seichem, shamanic practices, and guidance from her spiritual guides, Suzie delivers a treatment that primes the individual’s body to take on healing.

Eyemazy Bridge Street

Large Direct Print | £55

See the world through a new lens this summer with Eyemazy’s unique and personal Iris Photography. From sandy brown to crystal blue, the vibrant hues of summer blooms will be captured for you to remember forever.

The Scented Garden Retreat

Neck & Back Massage |

£35

Northgate Street Row

Relax and rejuvenate amidst the summer breeze with this indulgent Neck and Back Massage. Let the stresses of the season melt away as skilled hands work their magic, releasing tension and restoring harmony to your body and mind.

TRAVEL

Embark on your dream summer getaway with the help of Chester City Centre's expert travel agents! Whether you're seeking a sun-soaked beach retreat, an adventurous city break, or a cultural excursion, our travel agents are here to turn your vacation dreams into reality.

Kuoni

Travelbag

Bridge Street Eastgate Street

European Holidays*

From romantic short breaks in cultured cities to seaside adventures the children will remember forever, Europe offers enticing possibilities for every kind of traveller. Wander through the romantic streets of Paris, bask in the sun on the Mediterranean coast, or explore the historic wonders of Rome. Discover the charm of Europe and create your ideal getaway.

*Prices May Vary Contact Travel Agent Directly

Asian Holidays*

Embark on an unforgettable adventure with Travelbag's Asian Holidays. Explore vibrant cultures, stunning landscapes, and rich histories across Asia's most captivating destinations. Let Travelbag turn your dream summer holiday into reality with personalised service and insider knowledge. Discover the magic of Asia, as well as long haul tailor made holidays, and create lifelong memories.

Deva Travel Bridge Street Row

Long Haul Cruise Holidays*

With a personal service that's delivered to every client, every time, Chester’s leading ‘travelled agent’ has extensive travel knowledge to share with you. Embark on the journey of a lifetime with Deva Travel's Long Haul Cruise Holidays. Sail to far-flung destinations, make unforgettable memories and experience breath-taking horizons.

COOL KIDS

Gear up for a summer of fun and style with our Cool Kids category! From trendy children's clothing to the latest toys to keep them entertained all season long. Explore Chester's vibrant retail scene and kit out your kids with the coolest clothes and toys around!

Ryman Foregate Street

BiC Mixed Pastel Writing Pack | £4.89 (Ryman Rewards Price: £3.99)

Enhance your notes with a range of pastel colours by using the 17-piece BiC Mixed Pastel Writing Set. Perfect for stationery lovers, this set combines practicality and style that covers all writing and highlighting needs.

Primark Foregate Street

Tropical Short Sleeve Shirt & Shorts | £9 (pieces sold separately)

Whether you're bringing the sunshine home or living your best life abroad, we're getting major summer vibes from this tropical-inspired shirt — perfect for adding a bold touch to your every outfit! Pair them together for a loud resort look or dress it down with a white tee and denim!

Whilst in the city you could also visit Smiggle, Chester Zoo Store (inside Chester

Market), Early Learning Centre (inside Marks & Spencer) plus even more to keep your kids cool

COOL KIDS

Super Wubble Bubble Ball | £19.20

Experience endless summer fun with the Super Wubble Bubble Ball! It looks and moves like a bubble but won't pop like one. Kick it, throw it, bounce it, or even sit on it – it's squishy, soft, yet super strong! With the included battery-operated pump, inflate it up to 90cm in no time. Perfect for the park or garden, this bubble ball is great for kids aged six and up, ensuring joy all year round.

Claire's Foregate Street Bridge Street Foregate Street

Mermaid Sequin Backpack | £20

Make a splash this summer with Claire's Mermaid Sequin Backpack, the perfect blend of style and functionality for sunny adventures. This dazzling backpack is adorned with shimmering mermaid sequins that capture the magic of the ocean, making it a must-have accessory for any mermaid at heart.

Coral Pink Daisy Cross Back Dress | £23

Perfect for sunny days, this adorable dress features a vibrant daisy pattern and charming cross-back design. Crafted from soft, breathable fabric, it ensures all-day comfort and style. Ideal for picnics, playdates, or any summer adventure, this dress is a must-have for your child's warm-weather wardrobe.

The Entertainer

JoJo Maman Bébé

Now you’ve read our 2024 spend summer in Chester guide, it’s time to put on your best summer looks and take on our stunning city!

Fancy giving the gift of Chester this summer?

Take the decision out of gifting and let them choose where to spend their time in the sun… from quaint cafés exuding warmth, enchanting independent shops and much-loved brands adorned with smiles, elegant dining spots to make precious memories and bespoke hotels to do it all again the day after.

Available to purchase:

Lakeland

Gas Pizza Oven | £249.99

Row

Introducing Lakeland’s very own Pizza Oven, the perfect way to enjoy homemade pizza from the comfort of your garden. With years of knowledge and experience in pizza ovens, they have now put their expertise to use to create this must-have garden accessory.

Visitor Information Centre: Town Hall, Northgate St, Chester. Online: experiencechester.co.uk/chester-gift-card

View our website for the full list of participating stores.

#ExperienceChester @ChesterBID

Northgate Street