August Bank Holiday

Well, here it is, almost upon us. And doesn’t it come around very quickly. No sooner we enjoy the Easter Bank Holidays and it seems that in a blink of an eye, we are looking at the very last one of the year. Yes, I’m talking about the August Bank Holiday. And, in case you didn’t know, it will be with us next weekend. If you are parents you will also be well aware that very soon after, school begins. So, what better way to enjoy the last bits of the summer holidays than to have an eventful and memorable August Bank Holiday.

August Bank Holiday

But what can you do and where can you go? Many families will be looking forward to maybe taking a trip away. And why not. Each to their own and all that. Mind you, even though I enjoy a weekend away now and then I do often have a ponder and reflect on what is on offer closer to home.

Being a sociable sort of chap, I’ve lost count of the number of people I’ve spoken to over the years in various pubs who have chosen to visit our beautiful city. And if you are a regular reader, you will know that I really mean, the “most beautiful city in the world.” What….you haven’t heard? Yes, Chester has been named as the “Most Beautiful City In The World.” While you’re here and if you need any further confirmation, then have a read of this HERE.

So, on that basis, I wonder how many people from near and far will be flocking to the “most beautiful city in the world” this weekend? And, as far as I am concerned, I won’t be going anywhere else. I’ll be spending this August Bank Holiday here in Chester.

I often say to local residents that I reckon there are many who live in Chester that don’t see or appreciate all the things we have right here on our doorstep. Or, are not even aware of them either. That’s not a criticism by the way. It’s just an observation.

Chester Zoo

A few weeks ago for instance, I was talking to a local couple, in their 50’s I guess, who said they hadn’t been to Chester Zoo since their childhood days. As a big fan of our world famous attraction, I was like, “Wow!!” However, as I said above, each to their own and all that. They did confirm, by the way, that they hadn’t been simply because “they’d sort of forgotten about Chester Zoo” and not because of any anti-Zoo sentiments.

August Bank Holiday – Things To Do

Mind you, as fabulous as Chester Zoo is, I can see a really valid practical reason in this current economic climate to not have a visit on your “to do” list. With some justification, some will say it is an expensive day out when you consider entrance fee and refreshments etc.

However, an annual membership is great value if you consider you can visit throughout the year. If of interest, check out the membership details and benefits HERE.

So, if Chester Zoo is a ‘no-no’ for you, what else? I’ll begin with a simple mention and links to a couple of my early posts.

Have a look first at my “About Chester” page HERE. Take a look at the video for some ideas. Also, have a look at my “Places Of Interest” page HERE. Again, plenty of places mentioned. Mind you since I originally wrote these pages, I have visited other local places that are worth a mention.

For instance, I was having one of my regular trips down to The Groves the other week and, as per usual, ventured back through our lovely Grosvenor Park. What I also did though was something I hadn’t done for many a year. I had a look at the Grosvenor Park Miniature Railway. Are you familiar with it? Oh, you’re not. So, read on then.

Grosvenor Park Miniature Railway

While ambling through the Park, I stopped to have a quick natter with the man in charge, so to speak. Before I go any further, have a look at the scheduled opening times below:

Take note of the “All openings are weather dependent” disclaimer however.

I don’t know about you but I always feel there is something special about our Grosvenor Park. Even though it is so close to the city centre, it is so serene and peaceful. It could be anywhere in the world, if you get my drift.

As I said, I had a chat with the man in charge of the Miniature Railway. One very enthusiastic and extremely helpful gentleman. He was so very positive and enthusiastic of his corner of the Park and the service they provide to the public.

As well as the train ride, there is now also a fairground ride to enjoy. And a souvenir shop that also sells refreshments. The train journey itself is either a steam or diesel hauled train, on a ¼ mile circuit around the pond in Grosvenor Park.

While I was there, my overriding image was of a good crowd of happy, smiling young children’s faces waiting to board the train. And plenty of happy, smiling kids faces getting off the train after their trip. What could be better than that.

August Bank Holiday And Keeping It Local

If you’re already looking for things to do this August Bank Holiday then I hope you choose something that gives you and your family much enjoyment. If you are looking for ideas, then maybe take onboard (no train pun intended) some of the suggestions above. Chester on a Bank Holiday weekend? What could be better.

What have I missed out? If I have, I apologise. Maybe drop me a line if you have an event or a venue you would like to see get a mention and there may well be a Part 2 to this post, or something similar.

Have a great August Bank Holiday everyone.

Chester Lifestyle Blog Posts

Thanks for reading my latest blog post – August Bank Holiday. And thank you for visiting my Chester Lifestyle website. It is much appreciated. To see all of my other blog posts on a variety of topics, then have a look HERE.