7 Weekend Getaways for Digital Nomads Living in Chester

Chester, a charming city in the northwest of England, is not only steeped in Roman history and surrounded by medieval walls but also serves as a fantastic base for digital nomads looking to explore the region on weekends. With its central location, Chester offers a variety of getaways, from popular tourist spots to hidden gems off the beaten track. Whether you're looking for a bustling city, serene countryside, or coastal retreat, there's something nearby to satisfy your wanderlust.

Liverpool

Liverpool, a vibrant city known for its rich musical heritage and maritime history, is just a short train ride away from Chester. As the birthplace of The Beatles, it's a must-visit for music lovers, with attractions like The Beatles Story and the Cavern Club. The city's waterfront, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, features the iconic Royal Albert Dock, filled with museums, restaurants, and galleries. Liverpool is also a shopper's paradise, with areas like Liverpool ONE offering a wide range of retail options.

How to Get There: The easiest way to reach Liverpool from Chester is by train, with a journey time of around 40 minutes to 1 hour. Direct services are available from Chester Station.

Travel Tip: Don't miss the chance to take the Mersey Ferry across the river for stunning views of the city skyline, especially at sunset.

Where to Stay: The Titanic Hotel Liverpool offers a unique experience with its historical significance and luxury amenities. For a more boutique option, consider The Nadler Liverpool in the heart of the city.

Where to Eat: The Art School Restaurant provides an exquisite fine dining experience, known for its seasonal and locally-sourced ingredients. For a more casual setting, try the Baltic Market for a variety of street food options.

Conwy, Wales

Conwy is a picturesque medieval town in North Wales, boasting a stunning castle and well-preserved town walls. Visitors can explore Conwy Castle, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and take a walk along the town walls for panoramic views. The Smallest House in Great Britain also makes for a quirky photo opportunity. Nature enthusiasts will appreciate the nearby Conwy Mountain and the serene Conwy Estuary.

How to Get There: Conwy is accessible by train from Chester with a journey time of approximately 1 hour. Alternatively, driving takes around the same amount of time.

Travel Tip: Visit Plas Mawr, an Elizabethan house in Conwy, which is one of the best-preserved of its kind in the UK.

Where to Stay: The Castle Hotel Conwy offers a historic stay right in the heart of the town, while the Quay Hotel and Spa provides luxury accommodations with estuary views.

Where to Eat: For a traditional Welsh experience, try the award-winning Watson's Bistro, known for its cozy atmosphere and local dishes.

Peak District National Park

The Peak District National Park is an expanse of stunning landscapes, perfect for digital nomads seeking outdoor adventures. Hiking, rock climbing, and cycling are popular activities here, with trails for all levels of experience. The park is also home to charming villages like Bakewell, famous for its original Bakewell pudding. For a touch of history, explore the grandeur of Chatsworth House, set within expansive parkland.

How to Get There: The Peak District is best reached by car from Chester, taking around 1.5 to 2 hours. Public transport options are available but may involve multiple changes and longer travel times.

Travel Tip: Don't miss the opportunity to explore the underground wonders of the Peak District, such as the Blue John Cavern or Poole's Cavern.

Where to Stay: The Izaak Walton Hotel offers a classic country retreat with stunning views, while the Losehill House Hotel & Spa provides a touch of luxury in the heart of the park.

Where to Eat: The Old Original Bakewell Pudding Shop is the place to try the authentic local delicacy, while The Packhorse Inn offers hearty meals in a traditional pub setting.

Portmeirion, Wales

Portmeirion is an enchanting Italianate village on the coast of North Wales, designed and built by Sir Clough Williams-Ellis. This architectural wonder feels like a slice of the Mediterranean, with its colorful buildings, exotic gardens, and sandy beaches. It's a great spot for photography, relaxation, and enjoying the unique atmosphere. Fans of the 1960s TV show "The Prisoner" will recognize it as the filming location.

How to Get There: Reaching Portmeirion from Chester by car takes around 2 hours. Public transport options are limited, so driving is recommended.

Travel Tip: Make sure to check out the Camera Obscura, which offers a fascinating panoramic view of the surrounding area.

Where to Stay: Stay within the village at Hotel Portmeirion, which offers luxury rooms and stunning views. For a more secluded experience, consider the self-catering cottages on the estate.

Where to Eat: The Hotel Portmeirion's on-site restaurant serves up fine dining with a focus on local Welsh produce, while Castell Deudraeth offers a more casual brasserie-style menu.

Llangollen, Wales

Llangollen is a small Welsh town known for its picturesque setting and the annual International Musical Eisteddfod. The town is nestled within the Dee Valley, offering beautiful walks along the river and up to Castell Dinas Bran. The Llangollen Heritage Railway provides a nostalgic journey through the scenic countryside. For a unique experience, traverse the Pontcysyllte Aqueduct, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, by narrowboat.

How to Get There: Llangollen is best accessed by car from Chester, with a journey time of around 45 minutes. There are also bus services available.

Travel Tip: If you're visiting in July, don't miss the Llangollen International Musical Eisteddfod, which brings together performers from around the world.

Where to Stay: The Hand Hotel offers a central location with views of the river, while the Gales of Llangollen provides a boutique experience in a historic setting.

Where to Eat: For a memorable dining experience, try the Corn Mill, which serves modern British cuisine in a converted mill with riverside views.

Hawarden, Wales

Hawarden is a hidden gem located just a stone's throw from Chester. This quiet Welsh village is home to the Gladstone Library, the UK's only Prime Ministerial library, which is a haven for writers and thinkers. Hawarden also offers lovely local walks, including the Hawarden Estate Farm Shop trail, where you can enjoy the countryside and pick up fresh local produce. The village has a quaint charm, with historic buildings and a peaceful atmosphere.

How to Get There: Hawarden is a short drive from Chester, taking about 15 minutes. Alternatively, there are regular bus services connecting the two locations.

Travel Tip: Book a stay at the Gladstone Library for a unique experience, where you can sleep among the books and enjoy the tranquil study spaces.

Where to Stay: The Glynne Arms offers cozy accommodation in the heart of the village, with a focus on comfort and local charm.

Where to Eat: The Hawarden Estate Farm Shop has a café that serves delicious homemade dishes, with ingredients sourced directly from the estate.

Ironbridge Gorge

Ironbridge Gorge, known as the birthplace of the Industrial Revolution, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site nestled in the heart of Shropshire. The area is rich in history, with museums like the Ironbridge Gorge Museum Trust offering insights into the industrial past. The iconic Iron Bridge itself is a marvel of engineering. For those interested in Britain's industrial heritage, this is a fascinating and educational day out, with plenty of scenic walks along the River Severn.

How to Get There: The best way to reach Ironbridge Gorge from Chester is by car, with a journey time of around 1.5 hours. Public transport options are available but may involve transfers and longer travel times.

Travel Tip: Visit the Blists Hill Victorian Town, an open-air museum where you can experience life as it was over 100 years ago.

Where to Stay: The Tontine Hotel is right in the heart of Ironbridge, offering easy access to the bridge and museums. For a more rural setting, consider staying at one of the nearby country inns.

Where to Eat: The Ironbridge Gorge area has several quaint tea rooms and pubs, but for a unique dining experience, try the Restaurant Severn, which offers fine dining with views of the river.