Chester Walls

Chester Walls are the oldest, longest and most complete city walls in Britain, dating back to Roman and medieval times. They surround what was the extent of the medieval city of Chester, and offer a unique way to explore its rich and varied history. You can walk along the walls for free, and enjoy the views, the landmarks, and the stories along the way.

The walls were first constructed by the Romans when they established the fortress of Deva Victrix between 70 and 80 CE. They consisted of earth ramparts surmounted by wooden palisades, and later rebuilt using sandstone. The walls were extended and improved by the Saxons and the Normans, and further fortified during the Civil War. The walls have witnessed many events and changes over the centuries, and you can learn more about them from the informative plaques and audio guides.

Some of the highlights of the walls include the four main gates: Northgate, Eastgate, Bridgegate, and Watergate. Each gate has its own history and significance, and some of them feature towers or clocks. For example, Eastgate is the original site of the Roman entrance to the city, and it has the iconic Eastgate Clock, which is said to be the second most photographed clock in Britain after Big Ben. Another notable landmark is the King Charles Tower, where King Charles I watched the Battle of Rowton Moor in 1645.

Walking along the walls is a great way to see Chester from a different perspective, and to appreciate its heritage and culture. The walls are almost 2 km long, and it takes about an hour to complete the circuit. You can access the walls at various points around the city, and there are plenty of places to stop and rest, or to visit other attractions nearby. Chester Walls are a must-see attraction for anyone who loves history, architecture, and nature.