Last week marked English Tourism Week, a time to reflect on the importance of tourism in our communities and to celebrate all that makes our region such a special place to visit. I recently had the pleasure of visiting our busy and brilliant Visitor Information Centre in Chester, where I witnessed firsthand the dedication of the team working to make our city and surrounding area one of the top destinations in the UK.
Tourism plays a vital role in our local economy. It supports businesses, creates jobs, and showcases the rich history, culture, and stunning landscapes of Cheshire. Our tourism industry continues to thrive, with Chester at its heart. It was encouraging to hear that visitor numbers are on the rise, with ever more people keen to explore Chester North and Neston.
From the historic Roman walls and Chester Castle to the iconic Cathedral and Grosvenor Museum, we are surrounded by history and heritage. Chester Zoo, one of the top destinations in the country, continues to bring visitors to our local area. The beautiful Cheshire countryside offers some of the best walking routes in the UK, providing a tranquil escape. Just last week, I joined a beautiful wellbeing walk along the Wirral Way.
I’m proud to see how organisations like Marketing Cheshire, BID, and Visit Chester work tirelessly to promote our area, keeping Chester at the forefront of UK tourism. Their collaboration is key to maintaining Chester’s status as a top destination, and I extend my thanks to them.
It’s no surprise that Chester was recently recognised by Booking.com as one of the most welcoming places in the UK. The warmth and hospitality of our people play a significant role in making visitors feel at home. Chester was also named one of the top places to live and work by The Times, a testament to our wonderful community.
I encourage everyone to explore everything our local area has to offer. Whether you’re a lifelong resident or new to the area, there’s always something new to discover. Our city and countryside are full of hidden gems, waiting to be explored.
So, whether you’re revisiting an old favourite or finding something new, I urge you to get out and enjoy the beauty of Chester North and Neston. Let’s continue to celebrate our local area and all that makes it such a wonderful place to live, work, and visit.