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Chester le Street, located in northern County Durham, is a northeastern English small town. Called Congais during Roman occupation, this ancient settlement was built along the Roman road called Cade's, which is now known as Front Street. The Romans inhabited the area from about 100 to 410 AD. A group of monks, exiled from Lindisfarne, next inhabited the region from about 883 AD. One of these monks, Aldred, translated the Lindisfarne Gospels into English during this time. The monks and bishop also constructed a wooden church, which would eventually be the site of the St. Mary and St. Cuthbert Church.
During the Middle Ages, new roads covered Cade's Road, eventually becoming the Great North Road, a main thoroughfare to London. Travellers frequented the town on horseback, which prompted the construction of many inns along the path. In the 17th century, coal mining, and associated trades, provided the majority of employment and income for the town. Minerals were shipped up and down the River Wear. Mining also provided the economical means for development of various shops and services. Travelling by horseback was gradually replaced with horse and carriage transportation, which too declined after the railway became popular.
Activities and Attractions
The town has numerous low level cycling and walking paths for leisurely treks through fields, wooded areas and along the river. The Riverside Gardens Park contains ornamental gardens, a sports centre and a children's expansive paddling pool. Take a self-guided walking tour, or enjoy the comfort of a coach tour. Front Street has numerous shopping opportunities, and when the sun goes down the atmosphere comes alive at the various nightclubs located around town. Stop at a local pub and learn of the many ghosts, legends and myths of Chester le Street.
Visitors learn about local history through Anglo/Saxon times in the medieval Anker's Museum, located next to the St. Mary and St. Cuthbert church. The building also houses many Roman artefacts from the area. The original Roman fort is also open to the public. Stop for refreshments at the Wheatsheaf, once a coaching inn, the pub still has the stable building and the horse mounting steps of old. In 1389, Sir Ralph Lumley converted his ancestral manor house into a castle. The Lumley Castle now serves as an elegant hotel and restaurant, regularly hosting Elizabethan banquets and murder mystery dinners to the delight of guests.
Places to Stay and Dining
Victorian town houses offer en-suite rooms and breakfast for guests. Some facilities also have separate fully furnished cottages for up to four visitors. Certain historic hotels are popular, luxurious destinations, but beware, they might also be haunted. Though some facilities are historical in appearance, visitors are pleasantly surprised to find many modern amenities.
Deanos represents fine Italian cuisine available in Chester le Street. Feast on pasta, pizza or entire three course meals along with a matching wine selection. The atmosphere is appropriate for a romantic setting or a family dining experience.
Accommodation in Chester Le Street
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