Where do I park?
There's no public parking at the meadows event village. We recommend Queen's Park High School, or city centre public parking and walk down to the riverside from there. Alternatively, consider park & ride, buses or the train.
Where's the best place to watch?
Head to The Groves for a great view all morning, plus options for hot drinks, food etc while you watch. The bridge is a classic view but is often very busy, or make your way up the riverbanks either side of the Dee toward the meadows for viewing spots all along the river. We recommend getting to the river by 9:45am for the best spots to watch!
Where are the toilets?
There are toilets for public use at The Meadows event village. There are also public bathrooms on The Groves.
How do I get there?
From Chester city centre, head toward the river. Walk down Lower Bridge St and turn right onto The Groves.
Alternatively, take Souters Lane next to the Ampitheatre, opposite St John St. You won't be able to miss the fun!
From Chester train station, follow city rd to The Cornerhouse pub, then follow Pepper St along to Souters Lane.
What's the Festival Field?
This is the area all rafts launch from and return to. There's things going on all day for visitors - it's a great spot to get up close with all the rafts, there's loads of food & drink choices, kids rides all day, live entertainment in the afternoon and an awards ceremony! Well worth the 5 min walk from the river banks - just head over the suspension bridge and follow the yellow signs.
Do I have to buy a ticket?
No absolutely not! Watching the rafts and getting access to the Festival Field is completely free.
What time do the rafts start?
The rafts kick off at 10am, and will be released in heats of 4-6 rafts at a time, every 15 minutes.
Are there family friendly things to do?
You bet! The whole event is family focused. The whole family will enjoy watching the rafts, and the festival field has something for everyone - from beer tent for the adults, to inflatables and face painting for the kids. It's a full day out for everyone in the household!