If there’s one thing Cheshire is not short of, it’s beautiful gardens. From parks and gardens to mountains and moorlands, you’ll never be far from a rainbow of colours whatever the season. 

We love Chester and the beautiful surrounding area so much so that we built one of our wonderful retirement villages right in the heart of Cheshire. If you’re looking for some places to visit for a great day out, we can help – here are some of our favourite spots in and around Chester.

Norton Priory Museum and Gardens
Tudor Road, Manor Park, Runcorn, Cheshire

Norton Priory Museum and gardens is a captivating combination of architecture and natural beauty. Medieval ruins are captured within a Georgian walled garden, surrounded by acres of gardens, woodland walks, fruit orchards as well as the National Collection of Tree Quince. The museum has exhibitions that tell the story of the last 900 years, including details about the site and those who were lucky enough to live there.

After a day of exploring all this wonderful site has to offer, why not stop by the tearoom to enjoy a delicious homemade ice cream or a slice of cake and a cup of coffee while enjoying the relaxing surroundings of the walled garden courtyard?

Capesthorne Hall & Gardens
Capesthorne, Siddington, Macclesfield, Cheshire, SK11 9JY

Dating back to 1719, Capesthorne Hall is a remarkable example of beautiful Jacobean-style architecture. This magnificent hall is set in over 100 acres of picturesque parklands, complete with impressive gardens and a chain of three tranquil lakes. Once you head through the Milanese gates, you’ll be welcomed with an array of colourful perennials and unique 18th-century plants, as well as maple and cherry trees.

Don’t forget to stop by Butler's Pantry, which has a fantastic lakeside setting and offers delicious homemade light refreshments – the perfect place to refuel after a busy day of exploring.

Dunham Massey Garden
Dunham Massey, Altrincham, Cheshire, WA14 4SJ

No matter what season you choose to visit, we can guarantee you won’t be disappointed. The grounds of the 18th-century house includes a great plantsman's garden filled with historic features such as the orangery, pump house, Victorian bark house, and the remains of an Elizabethan mount. There are over 300 acres of beautiful ancient parkland to explore too, perfect for your four-legged friend.

In the summertime, you can enjoy the pretty hues and wonderful scents of the rose garden while basking in the sunshine. In the winter months, be dazzled by the bright colours of the after-dark illuminated trail through the gardens, with over a million lights, lasers, and seasonal sounds that fill the air with festive fun.

How we can help!

Here at Inspired Villages, we have many different types of properties all over the UK, including a retirement village in Cheshire. If you’re looking to move to the area, why not consider our retirement village, Gifford Lea? We can help you find the perfect property whether you choose to downsize or not. 

If you’d like to find out more about us and the benefits and attractions of renting or buying a home in an Inspired village, get in touch today or read our blog on the benefits of living in a retirement village.