Enjoy excellent shopping opportunities in a unique setting when you visit The Rows of Chester. They are a series of one-of-a-kind landmarks that line the four main streets of Chester city center. These covered walkways are accessed by staircases and form a second row of retail premises above the street-level shops. The Rows of Chester date back to Chester’s medieval era and today showcase a blend of grandiose Tudor, Georgian and Victorian architectural designs.
Mystery surrounds the origins of the buildings. One theory suggests that they were erected on top of the remains of the fallen Roman buildings. Another states that due to the encompassing defensive walls, storeowners had to build up in order to maximize their retail potential.
Stand at Chester Cross, where the four ancient streets meet. Many of the facades are excellent restorations, although some have stood the test of time. One is the Three Old Arches on Bridge Street, which is believed to be Britain’s oldest-surviving shopfront. Leche House on Watergate Street is one of Chester’s best examples of a medieval house.
Take advantage of the varied retail options. You’ll find everything from bookstores, dressmakers and tailors to antique sellers, high street brands and luxury jewelers. Stop for a snack or meal at bakeries, delicatessens, fast food joints and centuries-old pubs. Don’t miss the undercrofts, which are vaulted stone cellars once used as storerooms, such as at Cowper House, on Bridge Street.
There are plenty of other attractions to visit in the area. St. Peter’s Church is a Gothic-style landmark with exquisite stained-glass windows. Eastgate is an 18th-century arched gateway that stands on the site of the entrance to the city’s Roman fortress. The gateway’s walkway forms part of the city walls and above it is an ornamental clock.
The Rows of Chester are a 15-minute walk from Chester Train Station. Drivers can use one of many metered parking spots located at the edge of the city center.
