From sprawling green pastures and rolling hills to centuries-old landmarks, stunning gardens and theme parks, Cheshire has attractions to suit all ages. Explore lively university cities, industrial towns and affluent country villages. Cheshire has strong ties with the Stone Age and Romans and, due to its network of canals, became an important transportation center during the Industrial Revolution. Today narrowboats cruise these canals on pleasure trips.
Chester is the county capital, a picture-perfect city where half-timbered houses frame cobblestone streets. Among its highlights are the Roman-age Walls of Chester, Chester Castle, ancient Chester Cathedral and the Chester Rows covered walkways.
The town of Warrington has great museums such as the Museum of Policing in Cheshire and the Warrington Museum and Art Gallery. About an hour south is Crewe, where the Crewe Heritage Centre is a must-see for those interested in trains and railroad history.
Take daytrips to market towns to shop at farmers markets, experience charming pubs and enjoy walks along canals. Congleton, Lymm, Nantwich, Northwich and Sandbach are all worth visiting. Embark on a narrowboat trip from Middlewich and shop at chic boutiques in Knutsford. Alderley Edge, Prestbury and Wilmslow form the Golden Triangle, an area decorated with the lavish homes of soccer players and television celebrities.
Cheshire is also famous for exquisite gardens ideal for picnics, walking and spotting wildlife. Arley Hall and Gardens, Grappenhall Heys Walled Garden, Tatton Park and Walton Hall and Gardens are some examples. Discover caves, dales, moors and hills while hiking in the Peak District National Park, which stretches south into Derbyshire. The Gritstone Trail is a 35-mile (56-kilometer) long waymarked walking route on the western edge of the Peak District.
Children will love the fairground rides and roller coasters at Gulliver’s World theme park. Get up close to crocodiles, sharks and tropical fish at the Blue Planet Aquarium in Ellesmere Port.
Reach Cheshire by flying to Liverpool Airport and Manchester Airport or catch a train from major British cities, including Birmingham and Sheffield. Wales’ northern coastline is just a short drive away when you want to enjoy some summer sun at seaside towns.