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Things To Do in Cheshire
With Portal Golf & Spa Resort only a 30-minute drive from the historic Roman and medieval city of Chester, too, you can truly enjoy the best of both worlds.
Situated near an assortment of leafy towns and villages just waiting to be discovered, explore one of the most picturesque regions in England as part of an unforgettable adventure from the comfort of our golf, spa and leisure facilities.
From family-friendly heritage attractions to gloriously scenic walks and must-see events, our guide below shows just some of the highlights available nearby that you’ll want to put down on your itinerary to tick off during your stay.
A Wild Day Out at Chester Zoo
Looking for an unforgettable family adventure, Chester Zoo is the perfect destination for a fun and educational day out. Nestled in the heart of Cheshire, this world-class zoo is home to around 30,000 animals from all over the globe.
Explore the lush rainforests of South America, the vast African savannahs, and so much more as you discover animals in their natural habitats. Watch elephants roam, see big cats in action, and spot playful monkeys swinging through the trees.
Chester Zoo offers an exciting and immersive experience for families of all ages, where you can get up close to fascinating wildlife and learn about conservation efforts to protect these incredible animals. With plenty of animal encounters, beautiful gardens, and fun activities, it’s a day full of adventure and discovery that the whole family will enjoy.
Chester Zoo is a 25 minute drive from Portal Golf & Spa Resort
Images supplied by Chester Zoo
Cheshire Oaks Designer Outlet
Just a short 15–20 minute drive away, Cheshire Oaks Designer Outlet is one of the region’s top shopping and leisure destinations, perfect for a day out during your stay. With a huge selection of popular designer brands like Calvin Klein, Mulberry, and more, it's a haven for fashion lovers.
It’s also home to family-friendly attractions including the Blue Planet Aquarium and Vue Cinema, making it ideal for a fun-filled day with something for everyone. Dining options range from quick bites at Five Guys to flavour-packed dishes at Mowgli Street Food, offering plenty of variety to suit all tastes.
Whether you're bargain hunting or looking to unwind, Cheshire Oaks delivers a vibrant mix of retail, entertainment, and cuisine.
Don’t forget to stop by reception before you go, our staff can give details on a 10% discount pass to help you save even more on your favourite brands.
Cheshire Oaks Designer Outlet is a 17 minute drive from Portal Golf & Spa Resort
Experience the Magic of Christmas at Lapland Manchester
Get ready for the most enchanting Christmas adventure in Manchester. This year, LaplandUK is opening a brand-new site at Capesthorne Hall in Macclesfield, giving you double the chances to experience their magical holiday wonderland.
Imagine stepping into a snowy dream where elves are busy at work, Santa’s Toy Factory is in full swing, and twinkling lights fill the air. From a reindeer sleigh ride to meeting Santa in person, this unforgettable experience is perfect for the whole family.
Join in on fun activities like decorating gingerbread cookies in Mother Christmas' Kitchen, ice skating in the Elven Village, and even sending a postcard from the elf-sized post office. The highlight is a private, one-on-one visit with Father Christmas himself, complete with a special gift. With immersive, magical sets and a host of delightful surprises, Lapland Manchester is the ultimate Christmas adventure for all ages.
Lapland Manchester is a 45 minute drive from Portal Golf & Spa Resort
Explore the Magic of BeWILDerwood Cheshire
Step into the wacky, wonderful world of BeWILDerwood Cheshire, a magical outdoor adventure park for the whole family. Based on the enchanting children’s books by Tom Blofeld, this woodland wonderland is filled with fun, quirky characters like Boggles and Twiggles, and countless adventures waiting to be discovered.
There’s so much to explore for all ages, from Slippery Slopes and Wobbly Wires to the exciting Sky Maze and Den Building. Kids (and grown-ups) will love zooming down slides, tackling tricky mazes, and swinging on the zip wire. The Storytelling Stage is perfect for relaxing and listening to magical tales.
Best suited for children aged 0-12, but there’s fun for everyone. Whether you’re climbing, sliding, or exploring the stunning woodland, BeWILDerwood offers a fantastic day out full of outdoor fun, imagination, and adventure.
BeWILDerwood is a 18 minute drive from Portal Golf & Spa Resort
Oulton Park: Where Thrills and Scenic Views Meet
Located in the stunning countryside near Little Budworth, Oulton Park offers an exhilarating mix of scenic beauty and high-speed excitement. Surrounded by lush greenery and the tranquil Oulton Lake, this famous racing circuit is the perfect backdrop for adrenaline-packed motor sports events throughout the year.
But the fun doesn’t stop at watching the action, you can get behind the wheel yourself. Experience the thrill of driving F4 single-seaters, rally cars, Le Mans-style sportscars, BMW M4s, and more. Whether you’re a racing enthusiast or just after a unique experience, Oulton Park delivers a day full of excitement and unforgettable moments.
Don’t miss your chance to take to the tarmac and feel the rush of the track while surrounded by breathtaking views – it’s a must for every racing fan.
Oulton Park is a 11 minute drive from Portal Golf & Spa Resort