Chester City Walls

Step back in time and explore the rich history of Chester at its iconic City Walls – a unique experience that offers stunning views and fascinating insights.

Visitor Information: Chester City Walls

• Chester City Walls

  Description

  Chester City Walls are an iconic symbol of the city’s rich history and heritage. Built almost 2,000 years ago by the Romans to defend the city, the walls are one of the most well-preserved examples of Roman fortification in the UK. Visitors to the city can explore the walls and discover the fascinating history of Chester.

  Walking the walls is a popular activity for visitors to the city, with the route stretching for almost two miles and offering stunning views of the city and its landmarks. The walls also provide a unique perspective on the city’s architecture, with visitors able to see a blend of Roman, Medieval and modern buildings from above.

  One of the highlights of the walls is the Eastgate Clock, a famous landmark that is said to be the most photographed clock in the UK after Big Ben. Visitors can also see the Chester Rows, a unique system of two-storey shops that date back to the 14th century, from the walls.

  The walls are also home to a number of historical landmarks and features, including the Roman Amphitheatre, which is the largest of its kind in Britain. Visitors can also see the ruins of St. John’s Church, which was destroyed in the English Civil War, and the Water Tower, which was built in the 13th century to provide water to the city.

  Guided tours of the walls are available, providing visitors with an expert insight into the history and architecture of the walls and the city itself. Tours are led by knowledgeable guides who are passionate about the city’s history and heritage.

   

• Highlights

  Not to be missed when visiting

  Eastgate Clock: One of Chester’s most iconic landmarks, the Eastgate Clock is a stunningly ornate clock set atop the Eastgate entrance to the city. It’s one of the most photographed clock towers in England and offers a great starting point for your walk along the city walls.

  Eastgate and Northgate: As you make your way along the walls, you’ll pass through the beautifully preserved Eastgate and Northgate, two of the four original medieval gateways that once served as main entrances to the city.

  Roman Remains: The city walls boast sections of Roman masonry, providing a glimpse into Chester’s Roman past. You’ll see the foundations and structures that the Romans built nearly 2,000 years ago.

  Views of Chester Cathedral: As you walk along the walls, you’ll enjoy stunning views of Chester Cathedral’s impressive architecture and its surrounding gardens.

  King Charles’ Tower: This tower, located near the Northgate, is named after King Charles I and offers a glimpse into the tumultuous history of the English Civil War.

  Bridgegate: The Bridgegate, another of the city’s original medieval gateways, offers a picturesque view of the River Dee and the Old Dee Bridge.

  Watergate: This impressive gateway has been incorporated into a more recent building but still retains its historical significance and charm.

  Morgan’s Mount: Located near the Watergate, this raised mound provides a unique perspective of the surrounding city and landscape.

  The Bear and Billet: As you walk along the walls, you’ll see The Bear and Billet, a timber-framed building dating back to the 17th century, and one of the few buildings that survived the Civil War.

  Grosvenor Park: The city walls overlook Grosvenor Park, a picturesque Victorian park that offers a tranquil setting for relaxation and leisure.

  The Rows: From the walls, you’ll see the unique two-tiered medieval shopping galleries known as “The Rows.” These historic covered walkways house an array of shops and cafes.