Close to the border with Wales and lying on the river Dee, Chester has the reputation of being the "English medieval city par excellence". No other British city has such well-preserved enclosing ramparts; much of the original Roman wall still exists, punctuated by gates and towers added in the Middle Ages. Most sections of the wall are listed Grade I. The galleried streets known as The Rows are quite unique. Today Chester is just 2 hours from London by train, making it easily reachable and close to magnificent scenery such as Snowdonia National Park.
Events
The Hay Literary Festival in late May / early June each year is close to Brecon Beacons Cottage, The Court, Stables House and Jacobean Manor.
The Abergavenny Food Festival in mid September each year is close to Brecon Beacons Cottage, The Court, Stables House and Jacobean Manor.
Llangollen Hot Air Balloon Festival is every September and is nearby to Beach Farm and Beach House on the Lleyn Peninsula.
Academi Baylit Festival in October each year, The Dylan Thomas Festival takes place over 2 weeks in October and November, Tŷ Newydd Festival (activities range from readings and discussions to literary walks and dinners) is in April, The Laugharne Weekend is in April, Beyond the Border Wales is a Storytelling Festival each July - all near to Beach Farm, Beach House, Jacobean Manor, and Brecon Beacons Cottage.