TTDC Things to do in Chester

Checked event

Chester Raft Race 2026.

Image: Cen2s2s, Wikimedia Commons (CC BY-SA 3.0). Promoter-supplied listing artwork.

Labels

FamilyFamily-friendlyFreeraft-raceriver-deefamilyfree-entrycharity

Why it is here

Free family-friendly spectator day on the River Dee, with rafts on the water and an event village at Chester Meadows.

Best fit

Best for families and free plans.

Check first

Weather can change the feel of this one, so check the listing before setting off.

Date

Sun 12 Jul

Time

10:00-16:30

Venue

The Groves and Chester Meadows River Dee, The Groves and Chester Meadows, Chester

Cost

Free

Category

Family

Status

Live

Last checked

What to know

First rafts are due on the river at 10:00, with the final rafts expected by 12:30. The Meadows event village is listed as open from 10:00 until 16:30, with food, drink, rides, entertainment and awards.

List this as a public spectator day rather than a participant listing. The official FAQ recommends The Groves for watching and Chester Meadows for the event village.

Plan it

Useful before you book or set off

Tickets

Free in the checked listing. Still check the official listing in case booking, capacity or arrival rules apply.

Timing

Sun 12 Jul, 10:00-16:30.

Getting there

Use the listed address for The Groves and Chester Meadows; entrances and queues can vary by event.

Weather

For outdoor or festival-style events, check the latest organiser note and dress for the ground conditions.

Venue

The Groves and Chester Meadows

River Dee, The Groves and Chester Meadows, Chester

Before you go

Check the event listing before travelling or booking. Times, ticket status and entry rules can change faster than a static guide can.

Last checked Monday, 8 June 2026.