MORE than 1,000 free tickets will be given away during a new summer scheme in Chester.
Chester BID has announced the launch of Summer in the City, a brand-new initiative giving away free tickets to families throughout five weeks of the summer holidays.
The campaign is designed to offer exciting experiences for families during the summer holidays, while also helping to drive footfall into Chester city centre and support local businesses.
Each week of the summer holidays will feature a unique theme, celebrating various sectors of leisure and entertainment, including cinema, river cruises, guided tours, attractions, and wellness.
Tickets will be released two weeks before each themed week to ensure a fair and equal opportunity for all families to take part.
WEEK 1: Cinema Week | from July 28 | Over 350 tickets available
Enjoy free film screenings at Chester’s beloved Picturehouse and Storyhouse, including new releases Jurassic World: Rebirth and How to Train Your Dragon: Live Action.
WEEK 2: River Week | from August 4 | 120 tickets available
Hop aboard for free 30-minute river cruises and discover Chester from a new perspective, sailing along the River Dee with Chester Boat Tours.
WEEK 3: Tour Week | from August 11 | 70 tickets available
Explore Chester’s rich heritage with free tickets from Big Heritage’s Roman Tour to The Edwardian Lady Tour.
WEEK 4: Leisure Week | from August 18 | 500 tickets available
A bumper week of fun with free access to top Chester attractions including Sick to Death, Deva Roman Experience, The Hole in Wand and Making Tracks Exhibition.
(Image: Mark Carline)
Stuart Jarman, managing director, The Potions Cauldron Group, owners of The Hole In Wand, said: “Chester BID has created a great initiative for the city with their Summer campaign.
“Funding these free tickets drives footfall and takes the pressure off for parents looking for activities during the summer holidays.
“We are so excited to be part of the magic, welcoming families to The Hole in Wand Chester!”
Georgia Hayes, head of visitor experience, Big Heritage who own Sick to Death, Deva Roman Experience, said: “Summer in Chester is looking busier and better than ever, with new attractions, restaurants, and shops.
“Whether you are a tourist or a local looking for new things to do, the city is a place to put on your list.
“We are very pleased to be working with Chester BID as part of the Summer in the City Initiative. We encourage families to join us to learn more about the city and its dark and Roman history, with our Sick to Death venue and the Deva Roman Experience.”
WEEK 5: Wellness Week | from August 25 | 100 tickets available
Recharge with free family swimming sessions at Chester Baths and relaxing yoga classes with skyline views at Rooftop Social Club.
Ian Gordon, founder, iKO Projects/Rooftop Social Club, said: “The Summer in the City initiative not only provides free activities, but also introduces our venue to a new audience, welcoming families and children. The family yoga sessions will be a unique and new experience for us on the Rooftop!”
The campaign has been months of hard work and coordination by the dedicated team at Chester BID, who have recently won a Downtown in Business Award for their service to city businesses.
Luka Morrell, business engagement manager, at Chester BID, said: “Summer in the City is about more than just free tickets – it’s about making Chester a destination for families this summer.
We’re working with our Chester BID Members and partners to offer variety, fun and value at a time when we know parents are looking for affordable ways to entertain the kids. We can’t wait to see everyone having fun!”
Families are encouraged to follow Chester BID’s social channels and sign up to their visitor newsletter for booking details and announcements. Ticket availability is limited, and demand is expected to be high; therefore, early booking is recommended.
