Chester Cathedral
Iron Bridge River Cruise
Llangollen Heritage Railway
Discover the captivating city of Chester, where ancient Roman history meets stunning medieval architecture. Located in the heart of England, our carefully planned holiday is a must-see for all travel enthusiasts curious to experience what one of the most interesting cities the north of the county has to offer. Over the years, Chester has received numerous recognitions that celebrate its rich history and architecture, including the ‘Heritage City Award’ and most recently features in The Telegraph’s ‘Best High Streets of 2024’ top picks. On our list to visit is Chester's Roman Amphitheatre, which as Britain’s largest, hosted up to 8,000 spectators for gladiatorial contests from when it was built in the 1st century AD, with its ruins providing valuable clues into Roman entertainment and life.
Another famous attraction is Chester's City Walls that encircle the historic city and frame the charming Tudor two-tiered galleries known as ‘The Rows’. The Eastgate Clock, just a short stroll along the cobbled-streets from the medieval Chester Cathedral, is the second most photographed clock in the UK after Big Ben, and part of the city’s most significant landmark collection. We are delighted to be able to experience Chester from a different perspective on a boat trip along the River Dee, with picturesque views of the Alford Iron Bridge. Our adventure also takes us to the meticulously landscaped grounds of Tatton Park for the day, as we gain a detailed insight into aristocratic life.
This holiday also includes the unique opportunity to venture through the Welsh countryside. Nestled in the stunning Dee Valley and located near the iconic Pontcysyllte Aqueduct, Llangollen is a charming Welsh town known for its breath-taking landscapes. After browsing the local riverside shops, we take a trip along the Llangollen Heritage Railway to Corwen and gaze at some of the most stunning scenery Wales has to offer. Erddig is another local hot-spot on our itinerary, an 18th-century house managed by the National Trust, full of grand family portraits and artefacts. There is definitely something for everyone in on this trip, with the chance to socialise with like-minded members of Cultural Breaks old and new. Join us this May for the ultimate city break that combines the magic of the Welsh countryside with the beautifully preserved heritage of Chester!

The Queen at Chester Hotel 4*
For a luxurious stay within the city centre, The Queen at Chester is a 4-star hotel with elegant decor, varied dining menu and excellent reviews. Established in 1860, the hotel is famous for hosting historical figures like Charles Dickens (many years ago!) and was recently refurbished with a multi-million-pound investment. Unwind in spacious rooms with modern amenities such as TV, wifi or relax on the comfortable double bed. There is lift-access on all floors and the option to request a walk-in shower (subject to availability). Our package includes breakfast and a 3-course evening meal each day in the stylish hotel restaurant.

Itinerary
Day 1 – Monday 12th May
Your chauffeur driven car will drop you off at The Crowne Plaza Gerrards Cross to meet with your Tour Manager, who will guide you throughout this holiday. Your luggage will be loaded onto the coach in time for departure; refreshments will be served and fellow members of Cultural Breaks will arrive. Half-way we will stop for lunch, before continuing on to The Queen at Chester Hotel. On arrival you will be assisted with check-in, including porterage for your luggage and have time to settle in before our 3-course evening meal.
Day 2 – Tuesday 13th May
Enjoy an introduction to the city with a guided tour of Chester Cathedral and witness a magnificent example of Gothic architecture. We then meet with our Blue Badge Guide, who will highlight fascinating landmarks during a gently-paced walk for an hour, including the Eastgate Clock, The Rows and Roman Amphitheatre. The sight-seeing continues on the ‘Iron Bridge River Cruise’ with a light lunch onboard, as we glide across the waters of the River Dee. Back on land, we round off the day with a visit to The Grosvenor Museum for a taster of the city’s Roman origins and beyond.
Day 3 – Wednesday 14th May
Step into Erddig, a National Trust property in Wrexham once home to the Yorke family, filled with original furniture, portraits and personal artefacts from the Georgian era. We learn more about this 18th-century house through a guided tour and lunch, before moving on through the peaceful Welsh Valleys to the town of Llangollen. After browsing the quaint local shops, we take in the scenic beauty of the countryside by train on the Llangollen Heritage Railway to Corwen, where the coach will then collect us for our return trip to the hotel.
Day 4 – Thursday 15th May
Our day begins at one of Cheshire's most well-known historical estates: Tatton Park. With evidence of a Roman villa discovered on the estate, there is endless history to uncover within the grounds of the 18th-century mansion and working farm. This visit features a guided tour of the mansion to learn more about the Egerton family’s 400-year timeline and how they contributed to society and politics. After lunch, nature-lovers will be pleased to know we have a guided tour which unearths more information about the 50-acres of ornamental gardens.
Day 5 – Friday 16th May
After breakfast, the Tour Manager will assist you with check-out and your luggage will be loaded onto the coach for the return journey. For your comfort, we will pause half-way for a 2-course lunch, including tea or coffee. Following lunch, we continue on to The Crowne Plaza Gerrards Cross, where final refreshments will be available, and your chauffeur-driven car will arrive. We hope you had a delightful holiday in ‘Chester & the Welsh Countryside’!
Total Price of the Holiday: £1,875 per person
Deposit: £200
Balance due:
17th March 2025
Whats Included:
For more information or to book call 020 4568 3377
Cultural Breaks is a trading name of Advantage Travel Centres Limited, registered in England and Wales with registered number 04698963 Vat No. 680 7873 93 Head Office: C/O Regus, Eagle House, 167 City Road, London, EC1V 1AW