Keeping the kids entertained during the summer holidays can be a tricky business.

Six long weeks of finding daily activities often proves a struggle, which is why we've put together a guide of things to do in and around the city.

Most of them won't cost you a penny. Some require a small donation or you may need to spend a few pounds, but you won't need to break the bank.

So why not give some of them a try this summer.

Enjoy a picnic in the Roman Gardens

Chester 's picturesque Roman Gardens are a quiet oasis in a bustling part of the city and therefore perfect for a family picnic.

Located near the amphitheatre and close to The Groves , this is the perfect spot to escape from the crowds in the city and treat the kids to a picnic perhaps before an ice cream down by the river.

Wander along The Groves on a sunny afternoon

Chester’s historic bandstand
Chester’s historic bandstand

The Groves, running alongside the River Dee, start at the Old Dee Bridge and include the Suspension Bridge, leading to the Queen's Park area.

There is plenty going on during the summer months, including live music at the bandstand, Cheshire Farm real dairy ice cream stands, artists showcasing their work and also the Chester Boat Hire (prices are available to view here )

Explore the City Walls

The city walls boast a unique perspective of Chester offering impressive views while you follow in the footsteps of the Romans.

Measuring two miles in circumference, the walls are a popular choice for a stroll around the city while taking in sights such as the Roman amphitheatre, the 14th century water tower and the tower where Charles I stood to watch the Battle of Rowton Moor during the English Civil War.

Fly a kite in Grosvenor Park

Grosvenor Park, Chester
Grosvenor Park, Chester

Chester's 20-acre public park is a popular spot during the summer months due to its picturesque setting and large area for the kids to run around.

Why not fly a kite, kick a ball around or take a picnic and enjoy a family afternoon in one of the most complete examples of Victorian parks in the North West of England, if not nationally.

You could even treat the kids to a ride on the Grosvenor Park Miniature Railway. More information here .

Discover Chester's Roman heritage at The Grosvenor Museum

Grosvenor Museum

Go back in time and fascinate the kids with displays on Roman life and times in Chester.

Perfect for a rainy day, the museum is filled with artifacts and exhibitions and doesn't cost a penny to go in.

Grab an ice cream at The Cheshire Ice Cream Farm

A life-size magical ice cream tree at the new-look Ice Cream Farm at Tattenhall
A life-size magical ice cream tree at the new-look Ice Cream Farm at Tattenhall

With an impressive 40 flavours and combinations of ice cream to choose from, the Ice Cream Farm is a great family day out and best of all, it is free to get in.

The multi-million pound Tattenhall site has a range of play areas however certain areas, such as the Strawberry Falls Adventure Golf and Honeycomb Canyon sand and water play, have a 'pay as you play' policy.

Get up close and personal with a bird of prey at the Falconry & Nature Gardens

Grace the female Golden Eagle with assistant falconry manager, Sophie Pegg

This family attraction give you the opportunity to see owls, falcons, hawks and even a vulture called Tinker.

For a small donation of £3 for adults and £2.50 for children, there are daily flying displays and light refreshments on hand to keep the littles ones satisfied.

Falconers Tommy McNally and Sophie Pegg are also always on hand to talk about any aspect of the birds.

Keep cool at Sandy Lane Aqua Park

Sandy Lane Aqua Park
Sandy Lane Aqua Park

Perfect for a hot summer's day, the kids can enjoy 10 differing pieces of water equipment, operated by sensory touch pads, such as sprinklers, jet sprays, tipping bucket, geyser squirter and more.

There is also other fun stuff to do if the kids don't want to get wet such as a sandy play beach, swings and a large play boat.

And best of all, it's free entry.