Jarin’s Chester Highlights

Chester is a place of rich cultural heritage and the city dates back to as far as 70 AD. Chester was founded by the Romans and has seen many key events of British history between then and today.

Besides the history and culture of Chester, the city’s friendly people were another reason I was attracted to study here the most. As I have my break from my studies for the summer, I thought I would take you through the things I liked the most about spending time in the city. 

Spending time in Storyhouse

On weekdays, one of my go-to places would be the Storyhouse. After a tiring day of classes, the atmosphere there helps me to destress. I really enjoy their season-special drinks and pastries which are made fresh every day. Benjamin Zephaniah’s words adorn the walls and staircase of this magical place. One of the beautiful quotes that resonates with me is:

“You should know what this planet’s worth

If your place of birth is Earth.” – Benjamin Zephaniah

There are a huge variety of books available from every genre including academics, travel, food, and fiction novels. Depending on what I feel like, I either sit in the kitchen on the ground floor or go upstairs to the library. The kitchen has music on full blast, but it’s also relaxed, and it’s perfect for spending time either with friends or by yourself when you want to absorb the surroundings.

If I’m feeling more like I want complete silence to delve into a book, then upstairs is the best place amongst the numerous bookshelves. Sometimes you can find eye-catching features like flower-decorated chairs and bright reading places in the middle zone. Storyhouse also has meeting rooms, theatre spaces and a cinema, with a wide range of films and shows going on weekly.

Walking along the scenic River Dee

Walking along the picturesque River Dee in the early morning is one of my favourite ways to start the day. Here, you can inhale the fresh scent of nature while watching the sun rise amongst all the chirping birds.

One of my treasured things to observe is when I see old couples walking hand in hand as they have a conversation and pause to sit on a bench. It warms my heart to see the world go by.

Runners, people taking a stroll with their dogs, boats and all manner of life is before you as the restaurants and shops start to open their businesses for the day. The Queen’s Park campus is also hidden amongst the greenery of the river and the trees frame the beauty of the Queen’s Park Bridge.

City life spots

Besides appreciating the aesthetics and the nature of the city, I also enjoy shopping, walking around the streets, experiencing live music in front of the Town Hall and walking on the City Walls. One of my favourite restaurants is the Turkish restaurant in Chester, Pars Kahve. I recommend the Lahmacun and Baklava in particular.

A favourite memory of mine about the city is when I went on a spur of the moment walk on the City Walls with my friend. It was raining heavily that day and we were both drenched but, surprisingly, we were not feeling cold, and it wasn’t annoying. We started from the Northgate Point, crossing the Eastgate Clock, Cathedral, River Dee, the Chester Castle and all the way to the Racecourse. That day I realised one thing, sudden plans in life, especially with friends and no matter how simple or minimal they are, always turn out to be an amazing memory to hold onto.

Chester is not just a city that I am missing on my summer break, it is an experience, a feeling. I’m looking forward to another morning walk to the River Dee, an evening in the Storyhouse and spending time with friends when I return in September.

Make sure to visit Chester to see the University and the city for yourself at one of our Open Days.