‘With its charming, cobbled streets, historic architecture and a strong sense of community, it’s no surprise that visitors feel at home’
Chester has been named the friendliest city in Britain, alongside its spine-tingling reputation for being one of the country’s spookiest spots.
Online travel giant Booking.com says it has “a strong sense of community” and a “mysterious past”. Clinching the top spot in the ‘welcoming’ league at Booking.com’s yearly Traveller Review Awards, it’s the feedback from customers who’ve booked stays, cars or cabs that has seen it voted as the hospitality capital.
Meanwhile, the city was voted the UK’s most haunted by 15% of respondents in a survey of 2,000 people who believe in ghosts. Other cities with a significant proportion of votes include York, Edinburgh, Bath and Glasgow. The Romans established Chester as a fort called Deva Vitrix in 79AD.
More than two-fifths (41%) confessed they’d be up for a stay in haunted lodgings, while nearly one in five (19%) are on the hunt for spectral adventures during their jaunts. Some 38% said they would feel reassured by a friendly spirit in their hotel room.
For thrill-seekers and history buffs alike, Chester boasts haunted inns and tours dripping with tales of witchcraft, plague and poltergeist activities, including establishments like The Pied Bull and the chilling Dark Chester Tour. Ryan Pearson, Booking.com’s regional head honcho, said: “Chester is a city that perfectly blends warmth and history, making it one of the most welcoming destinations in the UK.
“With its charming, cobbled streets, historic architecture and a strong sense of community, it’s no surprise that visitors feel at home. But beyond its friendly atmosphere, Chester also has a rich and mysterious past, earning it a reputation as one of the most haunted cities in the country.”
The survey was carried out by research company OnePoll in February.