Cheshire is a county that’s long proven a great draw to would-be tourists. It’s easily accessed from both Liverpool and Manchester, and it’s packed with natural beauty and cultural and historical intrigue. Let’s take a look at some of the destinations that might attract visitors to Cheshire in 2017.
Chester Zoo
Chester Zoo is among the most popular tourist attractions in the country, and the subject of a popular new television documentary series. The popularity of ‘the zoo’ looks set to draw more people through the gates than ever before:pay a visit to Chester Zoo and you’ll have the opportunity to catch a glimpse of more than five-hundred different species of animal – as well as being able to walk through award-winning gardens.
Roodee Racecourse
If you’d like to try your hand at some gambling, then why not pay a visit to the racecourse? The Roodee can be found in the centre of Chester, just outside the city’s historic walls, first put in place by the Romans (who were responsible for the city’s first establishment). The racecourse is of significant historical interest, being among the oldest in the country, and it’s certain to excite the curiosity of racing aficionados and laymen alike!
Beeston Castle
These medieval ruins stand at the top of a 500ft rocky outcrop, and provide unparalleled views over the surrounding Cheshire countryside. What’s more, it’s the site of regular auctions, where participants will have a chance to big on an array of different and exotic items.
Tatton Park
Tatton Park is among the most impressive historical sites in the county. The grounds are home to a sprawling neo-classical mansion, an old hall which dates back to the Tudor period, and more than a thousand acres of parkland, where you’ll find wandering deer. It’s the perfect location for a walk during winter and autumn, and hosts more than a hundred different events each year – so there’s always something for visitors to do. These events include an annual flower show hosted by the Royal Horticultural Society – which will provide visitors with a wealth of opportunities to take in perfectly-maintained gardens every summer.
Arley Hall
Another country house worth a visit is Arley Hall. It was built during the 19th century, and is extraordinarily well maintained. The grounds are home to stunning gardens, which are regularly voted amongst the best the country has to offer. If you’re looking for to enjoy some of the finest herbaceous borders in the land, then be sure to pay Arley a visit.
The Crocky Trail
The CrockyTrail is the ideal antidote for school-holiday boredom. It’s an outdoor adventure playground that’s crammed with rides and challenges that’ll engage the whole family – both physically and mentally. You’ll be navigating trees, bridges and fast-flowing streams during your stay in this attraction!
Cheshire Ice Cream Farm
Nestled into the Cheshire countryside you’ll find a farm that’s famous for producing excellent and interesting ice creams. The flavours on offer range from classic formulations like strawberry, vanilla, and mint chocolate chip, to more exotic concoctions like apple pie and custard. If you’ve got a sweet tooth – or you’re entertaining children with a predilection for all things cold and creamy – then you should be sure to pay the ice cream farm a visit.
Carden Park
Just down the road from the ice cream farm you’ll find Carden Park. It ranks amongst the best hotels in Cheshire. It’s home to not one, but two world-class golf courses, as well as extensive swimming and spa facilities, and a clutch of restaurants and bars. It’s also among the most popular wedding and conference venues in Cheshire – making it an ideal location if you’re planning a large gathering to mark a significant event.
Quarry Bank Mill
If you’re looking for something a little more historically interesting, then you might check out the Quarry Bank Mill, in Wilmslow. You’ll find there a Georgian museum that’ll show you all there is to know about this integral part of the area’s industrial heritage.
Anson Engine Museum
By the same token, the Anson Engine Museum will also provide a wealth of insight into the industrial history of Cheshire. It’s set into Poynton, which was once home to a vibrant and productive mining community. The museum is built directly onto the site of the old colliery, and the engines themselves will be in operation almost every day (though it’s worth checking in advance, particularly if you’re intent on travelling a long way to reach the museum).
Clare Louise 
Paul Petersen