'Hidden gem' Chester rated best UK city break for 2026
This is the only UK destination that has perfectly preserved city walls - and you can follow them all the way around
Chester city centre(Image: Liverpool Echo)
Tourists have hailed Chester as a hidden gem brimming with breathtaking scenery and vibrant heritage. Considered amongst Britain's most picturesque cities, Chester has claimed the top spot for UK city breaks in 2026.
The historic walled city offers an impressive 71 per cent of its attractions rated four stars or above on TripAdvisor, paired with hotel prices averaging just £80 per night. At £66 for a meal for two and £2.38 for a pint, it is seen as delivering a genuinely affordable weekend away without skimping on things to see and do.
Roman ruins, Tudor-era architecture, and excellent shopping along the famous Rows make Chester a destination that punches well above its weight, reports the Mirror. When assessing what's on offer, it describes how the city walls provide a beautiful 45-minute walk offering enchanting views and a fantastic insight into Chester's long history.
Chester Cathedral exceeds 1,000 years in age, showcasing remarkable period architecture and exceptional medieval mosaics. The award-winning Tower Tour can gives stunning panoramic Cathedral vistas from its view points.
The city has award-winning tours(Image: Pete Stonier / CheshireLive)
The tour revolves around climbing the Cathedral's tower, which looks out over five counties - you can even see Wales on a clear day. Families looking for an entertaining day trip can explore Chester Zoo, home to 35,000 creatures distributed throughout 128 acres of rainforests, caverns and marshlands.
The city's stunning meandering lanes also boast a thriving café culture, with numerous independent establishments on offer. Venues such as Bean and Cole and Jaunty Goat serve as popular destinations for speciality coffee, whilst The Hollies Farm Shop stocks delicious regional fare. For those considering a summer trip, Chester's prize-winning racecourse hosts meetings between May and October, providing an excellent choice for some spirited entertainment.