5 Hidden Gems; Local Attractions in Cheshire Near Carden Park

744 Experience 

What if we told you that although you are visiting Cheshire, within two hours you could be soaring over Antigua too? Well, virtually you could be! Just a 20 minute drive from Carden Park the 744 experience is a local attraction unlike anything you will have experienced before. A team of aviation enthusiasts and pilots have spent years refurbishing a genuine 747 British Airways aircraft to its former glory. No expense or attention to detail has been spared. The plane is expertly equipped with flight simulation software (used by actual pilots globally) you can take to the air without even leaving the ground. 

This is suitable for small groups of both aviation professionals and those just with an appetite for something unique to do. As you sit in this refurbished cockpit it is near impossible not to have a good time. You can pick your destination, time of day and weather scenario and then your co-pilot (from the 744 team) will teach you how to fly the plane. The 220-degree wrap-around screen with 4k projection makes this experience so realistic it’s difficult to believe you’ve been in Cheshire for the entire time. 

Bolesworth Castle 

A gem of a local attraction tucked neatly away in the Cheshire countryside. Bolesworth is the closest place to Carden Park on the list. It is a beautiful Grade II listed castle nestled in an equally attractive 6,500 acres of landscaped gardens. It is privately owned by the Barbour family and has been since 1856. They are home to an impressive equestrian event calendar; most notably their much anticipated Bolesworth International extravaganza during the summer months. It is a twist on a ‘day at the races’ where all ages are welcomed with open arms. 

Most recently they have spread their wings (or maybe reigns more aptly) into the event space with a whole host of fun activities. From outdoor cinemas, sunflower picking, circus evenings, car auctions, a hot air balloon fiesta plus much more. We definitely recommend checking what events are scheduled at the same time you chose to visit the hotel, to see if they complement your interests. 

Chester Zoo

We may have misled you a little with this one as Chester Zoo is one of the favourite attractions in the UK rather than a hidden gem. With a staggering 35,000 animals spread across 128 acres. It is located just 25 minutes from Carden Park and our hotel guests can get generously discounted tickets during their stay here. 

What you may not be aware of, is the rate at which Chester Zoo has expanded and continues to do. This means if it has been a while since you last visited the attraction, you will be pleasantly surprised at how different your next visit might be. From the opening of the 15-acre Islands to showcasing the conservation efforts in Sumatra and Indonesia, the launch of their 360-degree seasonal digital displays, the snow leopards making their debut this year, to the much anticipated ‘Heart of Africa exhibition’ opening in the not-so-distant future. 

A trip to Chester Zoo is not only fun to see all the animals you rarely get to see but it is also educational too. The work their team does to support conservation efforts is recognised and celebrated on a global scale, making it an honour for us to have it located on our doorstep.  

Carden Park being just hop skip and a jump away makes it the perfect Chester Zoo Hotel for your trip. 

The Ice Cream Farm 

Ice cream has no age limit, especially when The Cheshire Icecream Farm has one of the world’s largest choices of flavours in the world. Whether you want to opt for a fun flavour like Apple and Cherry Sours or you have a more classic palate with a preference for a chocolate brownie cone, you’ll find a flavourism choice to suit your preference. Our guests particularly like The Icecream Farm’s one-of-a-kind drive-in. This is a beautiful area to sit in the sunshine and relax around the lake with a sweet treat. 

They also have so much to offer families too. Did you know Carden Park’s guests get a free play pass for every child who stays at the hotel? This can get you access to a range of fun and interactive activities. Examples include; Mini-Golf, Sand & Water Play, Mini-Tractors, Inflatables and much more. There are plenty of indoor and outdoor facilities to enjoy, making it a good choice no matter what the weather may have in store. 

Cheshire Oaks

You will find the huge Cheshire Oaks shopping outlet 30 minutes away from Carden Park. Explore over 145 shops, many of which will be your favourite design brands with up to 60% off their recommended retail prices. From Molton Brown, Mint Velvet, Polo Ralph Lauren, Kate Spade, Tag Heuer and many more – there is a range of shops to suit all styles and budgets. All of our guests can also collect a 10% discount voucher from Carden Park’s reception to use in selected Cheshire Oaks stores. The shops are open 7 days a week and much later than your usual retail stores. There is also free car parking on-site. 

Aside from the shopping, Cheshire Oaks is also home to a cinema, bowling alley, mini golf course, a huge sheltered play park and several recognisable cafes and restaurants. Making it an entertaining destination for all who spend a leisurely afternoon there.