This just in, USA Today had a poll which voted Chester, England to be on the Top 10 List of “Europe’s Prettiest Cities”.
For those unfamiliar with the city, let’s take you on a brief tour.
Chester is located in Cheshire, England.
It’s not too far from large cities Liverpool and Manchester. And close to the beautiful Lake District.
Source: Visit Chester
Chester was founded in the year 79 by Roman Legio II Adiutrix during Emperor Vespasian’s reign.
Much of the Roman influence remains, in particular the 2,000 year old walls that line the city.
Source: Jacqueline Poggi
Eastgate, Northgate, Watergate and Bridge, are main roads in Chester that follow routes laid out almost two millenia ago!
Source: Nigel’s Europe
Chester was one of the last towns to fall to the Normans during the Norman conquest of England. The huge harbour made the city a powerful, well defended outpost for the Roman Empire.
Chester Cathedral is over 900 years old and was founded by the Benedictine monastery more than 900 years ago. It now attractions hundreds of thousands of visitors a year.
Source: Christopher John SSF
Chester became a city in 1541.
Source: Dale Miles
Source: Nigel’s Europe
A considerable amount of land in Chester is owned by the Duke of Westminster (whose name is Grosvenor), that’s why there are a few places that bear the name “Grosvenor” before it.
Source: Bryn Salisbury
Chester has what are called “The Rows” or “Chester Rows” of which look like this:
Source: Tony Dickins
Here’s a closer look:
Source: Nigel’s Europe
Although it’s hard to see how Chester beat off competition like Paris, Venice and Prague I’m sure you’ll agree Chester has plenty of charm, history and unquestionably picturesque. Perhaps it’s the complete lack of modern structures that made Chester a popular choice with USA Today readers.
Check out our listings of Things to do in Chester, and visit this lovely city!
[button link=”http://www.daytripfinder.co.uk/things-to-do/north-west/chester” size=”large” color=”orange”]Things To Do in Chester[/button]
