5 exciting new openings that will make you want to book a Cheshire staycation in 2022

When it comes to the ultimate UK staycation, there are three things which top our travel checklist: luxury lodging, indulgent foodie dining destinations and unique experiences we simply can’t find at home. 

This year, Cheshire boasts new openings which tick all of these boxes and more. With close proximity to Manchester and Liverpool for buzzing city breaks, combined with the glamour of ultra-luxe countryside living, the area was already on our radar for elevated retreats – and now we’re even more excited to discover the area’s latest offerings. (And while you’re planning this year’s trips, be sure to make the most of your annual leave by following our useful guide to maximising it.)

From beautiful boutique stays to artisan ice creams, via outer space, here are three of the most exciting all-new Cheshire attractions deserving of a trip North West in 2022… 

Get some space at Jodrell Bank observatory’s stunning new First Light Pavilion

Jodrell Bank will launch its multi-million pound First Light Project with the opening of the First Light Pavilion this spring (pictured above). The national heritage attraction is set in an impressive new building in the shadow of the mighty Lovell Telescope, which was named a Unesco World Heritage Site in 2019 because of its global role in achieving a transformational understanding of the Universe. Designed by internationally acclaimed architects HASSELL Studio, the Pavilion will include a gallery dedicated to telling the story of Jodrell Bank, an immersive projection space and auditorium, and an education hub and cafe. 

Soak up the local history in style at new boutique hotel Wildes Chester

Old meets new this summer when the new Wildes Chester opens its doors. The new boutique hotel sits in prime position in Chester’s medieval Rows, overlooking the High Cross. It will feature 18 luxurious rooms, a spa, and high-end restaurant X by Harry Guy.

Treat yourself to an artisan ice cream

Ice-cream fans can take a tasty tour of Cheshire’s artisan parlours by following the new self-guided trail, The Delicious Dozen. The landlocked county may not be known for its seaside attractions but this is dairy country, with ice-cream makers popping up from the Welsh borders to the foothills of the Cheshire Peak District. Highlights of the trail include one of the UK’s top visitor attractions, The Ice-Cream Farm.

Discover medieval history from amazing open galleries with this new tour 

Chester’s medieval Rows will be the subject of a new online and audio walking tour, Discover The Rows, launching this month. Sightseers and shoppers from near and far will be able to learn on the spot about these amazing first-floor open galleries, with revelations including England’s first shopfront and a coded message about a possible visit to the city by Catherine of Aragon. To surprise and delight young visitors, guides from Roman Tours dressed as medieval soldiers will even be on hand in the city centre to explain a little more about these historic structures.

See Chester bloom with fabulous new art installations 

There’ll be a treat for the eyes in Chester in February with a glorious burst of art installations across the city titled Spring Blooms. Part of a new campaign, Cheshire Designed By Nature, from Destination Chester, the display of artworks – which visitors will be able to find out more about using a new app – will bring the Cheshire countryside into the heart of this green city. Expect nocturnal projections of wildlife, a sculptural swoop of birds, and a stage set in the Cathedral gardens for free theatre performances. 

For more Cheshire tips, catch The Real Housewives of Cheshire star Seema Malhotra’s 5 dream holidays for post-lockdown travel.

More details at visitcheshire.com.