Chester Christmas Lights

 We love Chester in winter with its black and white Medieval buildings and quaint streets. Last week we attempted to see the Christmas light switch on. It was absolutely heaving though and we only caught glimpses of the parade over a sea of bobble hats. Must get there earlier in future.....

Even still, it was enjoyable and the modest but beautiful lights and a small firework display were enjoyed by a wide-eyed Little Bird. We eventually saw one of the smaller lanterns on its way back.

We found a cute traditional sweet shop and the window was quintessentially Christmassy and so evocative of a novel you might pick up at the supermarket at this time of year. Swirly lollipops, jelly beans and jar after jar of boiled sweets, boxes of fudge and chocolate nuts.
I like exploring the little side streets and up on the galleries. There are interesting shops up on The Rows and it seems you can find a new boutique or cafe each time you visit.

A bustling fairground had appeared, although we didn't visit but others were saying there were festive stalls and Santa visiting. We just admired the neon lights from a distance which was probably a good thing as in the newspaper this week it has been overcrowded and people were being turned away -ooops!

I much prefer the twinkling lights in the trees by Chester Cathedral and the small Christmas market. By the time we had walked back, the crowds has mostly disappeared and with chilly hands we enjoyed a box of hot chips under the Victorian street lamps.