Chester Weekend

Ok the amazing Chester weekend.  Mr Bus and I were considering what to do for our first anniversary and were very tempted to go to Edinburgh; however, it was a bit pricey at current so we thought we would wait for a better deal.  We eventually decided on Chester and I think because I had raved so much about Chester Zoo to himself it was a must.

We booked this absolutely stunning B&B called the Manderley Bed and Breakfast.  I would have to say it was one of the best bed and breakfasts I have ever stayed in.  It is very reasonably priced and books up very quickly as it’s of such a high standard.  We booked the Super King room as a nice treat for ourselves. We had an amazing stay and Karen and Richard couldn't do enough. What makes this B & B so spectacular are the personal touches. It is also easy to find, in a beautiful area and a short walk into Chester.

Karen greeted us when we arrived and showed us around, then to our room asking if we would like a coffee down in the lounge, we declined as we just wanted to settle in. The room was gorgeous, spotlessly clean, light and airy with a lovely bathroom. There was lots of information on Chester and the surrounding area and all of the leaflets where up to date.

We had great nights sleep both nights and the breakfasts were gorgeous and tasty. There was such a lot on offer as well; it met all of our needs.

On returning from our meal out on the Saturday evening there was a tot of Amaretto liqueur on offer in the hall which was a lovely touch, but we were too full to take advantage of this. The Sunday morning Karen and Richard very kindly let us leave our car there while we popped into Chester before returning home.  If we are ever in Chester again we will definitely be returning.

 

 Saturday day we spent at the zoo, although it was bitterly cold it remained dry for us and sunny.  We had great fun looking at all the animals and walking through the Bat cave.  We stayed in there quite a while as it was quiet and not many people, although some would scream when a bat touched them.  Mine and Mr Bus’ favourites are the monkeys in particular we loved the Capuchin monkeys throwing themselves around and causing mischief and the Organ-utans.  We were very excited to see the big male Orang-utan with what looked like a cape of his fur.  Although there are a few places to eat at the zoo we decided to take a picnic and there is lovely enclosed picnic areas so it suits all types of weather.

 

 

Saturday evening we went for a meal at Hickory’s Smokehouse and was thankful we booked in advance as was told it books up very quickly. It was very busy when we arrived and our table wasn't ready, this wasn't a problem we ordered some drinks at the bar while we waited and in a short time our table was ready.

While waiting we were given a bowl of popcorn to share and a bottle of water. The serving staff couldn't do enough for you and were all very friendly and helpful, they all went the extra mile and made the experience feel a lot more personal. The food is great, very tasty and big portions making it great value for money.

I ordered a $5 shake after we had finished our food as a dessert and because I am a big Pulp Fiction fan and I was brought the wrong one but this was quickly rectified and the correct one brought over, it was gorgeous.

We were approached after we had finished our meal and asked if we would mind changing seats, as they had a large party they needed to get seated as they were being a bit loud in the bar area. We didn't mind in the slightest and to show their appreciation and sorry for the inconvenience they took two drinks off our bill; we were surprised when we received the bill that these weren't the cheapest ones either.

Overall a brilliant night with great cocktails, tasty food and outstanding customer service.  On returning to the B & B we finished off the evening by drinking Champagne in our Super King bed in our PJ’s chilling out after a big day and meal.

 

 

On Sunday we decided to have a look around Chester and walk the walls.  This was lovely and it was great to be out and about in the fresh air.  I remembered from previous visits this lovely tea room so I was on a mission to track it down.  It is called the Coffee Mill.  It was just as delightful as I remembered a lovely pot of tea and this time I had a very tasty toasted tea cake to accompany it.  The service is lovely and very personal, you are not felt rushed at all and you can take your time, a better place than any chain.

We had a fantastic weekend in Chester.