ARE you dreaming of a festive getaway? This Christmas spot could be ideal for you.
Take a look at the charming city in the northwest of England comes alive in December, offering a magical mix of markets, festive food, and twinkling streets.
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The Chester Christmas Market is a must-visit, with over 70 wooden chalets nestled in the city’s historic Town Hall Square.
Here, you’ll find handcrafted gifts, locally made decorations, and indulgent treats.
Sip on mulled wine or hot chocolate as you wander through the stalls, taking in the glow of all Christmas lights.
And Chester doesn’t disappoint when it comes to food.
From the market’s bratwurst and churros to the city’s cosy pubs offering hearty roasts, you’ll be spoilt for choice.
Don’t miss The Chester Grosvenor’s famous afternoon tea, complete with festive cakes and mince pies.
Accommodation in Chester ranges from quaint inns to luxurious hotels.
The Rowton Hall Hotel & Spa offers a country escape just outside the city, while Hotel Indigo places you in the heart of Chester’s cobbled streets.
For budget-conscious travellers, Premier Inn and Travelodge offer affordable stays within walking distance of the main attractions.
Flying from Dublin to Manchester is the easiest way to reach Chester, with return flights starting from around €20.
From Manchester Airport, Chester is a short 40-minute train ride away, making it an ideal pre-Christmas escape.
But remember when booking flights that the festive markets will only be on until December 22.
They are open daily, Monday to Wednesday from 10:30 to 18:30.
And Thursday to Saturday they will be open later from 10:30 to 20:00.
While Sunday will resume back to the earlier closing time from 10:30 to 18:30.
This is a lovely option to pair in with a visit to Manchester Christmas markets as well.
Manchester is home to some of Europe’s best Christmas markets with just about every trinket you can think of being sold here.
The city hosts over 200 individual stalls selling crafts, food and anything else you can imagine.
There is also nine different market sites within the city of Manchester, so wherever you end up your sure to not be far from the Christmas cheer.
With a large covered ice-skating rink and unlimited festive food options such as a yorkshire pudding wrap.
While you are there, pop into Manchester Arndale – Manchester’s biggest shopping centre.
It is home to over 200 stores so you are sure to get all of your Christmas gifts sorted too!
XMAS MARKETS AT HOME
HERE’S five more events to check out this Christmas.
- Dublin Christmas Lights: The annual Christmas lights switch-on will occur on November 1, with festive decorations illuminating key areas such as Grafton Street and O’Connell Street.
- Winterval in Waterford: Starting November 17 this large Christmas festival features markets, light displays, and entertainment throughout the city.
- The Belfast Christmas Market: Opening on November 16 at the City Hall grounds, offering a variety of food, crafts, and seasonal goods.
- Galway Christmas Market: Set to begin on November 17 in Eyre Square, featuring festive stalls, food, and live entertainment.
- Killarney Winter Wonderland: Opens November 23, with attractions including a Christmas market, ice skating, and Santa’s Grotto.
