Chester BID is reintroducing its popular Summer in the City ticket giveaway, providing more than 1,000 complimentary tickets to some of Chester's most beloved attractions, activities, and experiences throughout the school summer holidays.
Building on last year's success, the enhanced Summer in the City programme aims to help families create lasting memories while exploring everything Chester has to offer. The campaign spans five themed weeks, offering families numerous opportunities to venture out, discover, and enjoy the city during the summer break. Activities range from cruising on the River Dee to watching family-friendly films or delving into Chester's rich history, ensuring there is something for every family.
How to Access Free Tickets
Tickets will be distributed via the Chester BID newsletter, with each week's tickets becoming available two weeks before the scheduled activity. Families are encouraged to subscribe to the newsletter to be the first to secure tickets.
Carl Critchlow, chief executive of Chester BID, said: "We’re really pleased to be bringing Summer in the City back after the brilliant response we had from families last year. It’s all about helping families enjoy quality time together over the school holidays while showing off the fantastic experiences we have right here in Chester city centre. We couldn't do this without the support of our city centre businesses and partners. Together, we're helping people make the most of everything Chester has to offer and creating great summer memories in the city."
Week 1: Cinema Week (July 27 – August 2)
Free cinema screenings at Picturehouse featuring new releases ‘Minions & Monster’s and ‘Spider-Man: Brand New Day’, alongside theatre tickets to Peter Pan at Storyhouse in the Park, located within Grosvenor Park Open Air Theatre.
Megan Bennett from Storyhouse, said: “We’re delighted to be part of Chester BID’s Summer in the City campaign and to welcome families into Storyhouse in the Park this summer. Grosvenor Park has become such a special part of Chester’s summer offer and it’s brilliant to be working alongside the BID and other city partners to help create memorable experiences for families right across the city.”
Week 2: River Week (August 3 – August 9)
Free 30-minute cruises along the River Dee with ChesterBoat, offering families the chance to experience Chester from a different perspective on the water.
Jenny Brown, from ChesterBoat, said: “Chester Boats is pleased to be returning as part of the Summer in the City Campaign. The popularity of our boat trips last year was a great opportunity for us to showcase the city to our visitors and residents, and we’re glad to be able to provide this again in 2026. The summer is an expensive time for families, so providing city centre attractions for free ensures Chester is accessible to all.”
Week 3: Leisure Week (August 10 – August 16)
Free activities including Deva Roman Experience, Challenge Point, The Hole in Wand, and swimming at the newly renovated Brio Northgate.
Week 4: Tour Week (August 17 – August 23)
Free open-top bus tour with City Sightseeing, allowing families to discover Chester's rich history and famous landmarks.
Week 5: Social Week – New for 2026 (August 24 – August 30)
Free interactive experiences at Rooftop Social Club, including karaoke and shuffleboard, alongside duckpin bowling at Spinners.
Families wishing to participate are encouraged to sign up for the Chester BID newsletter to be first in line for tickets when released. For more information and to sign up, visit www.chesterbid.co.uk/discover/summer-in-the-city/.
