Chester City Walls

The basics

Stretching for a complete 2-mile (3.2-kilometer) circuit around central Chester, the City Walls are an essential part of any visit to the ancient city. Learn more about their history when you explore with a guide (especially an actor-guide who plays a Roman centurion or medieval knight), strike a pose on a photography tour, or experience their macabre side on an after-dark ghost tour.

If you prefer to keep your sightseeing independent, it’s easy to walk the fortifications on your own, and it’s a great way to take in views of the city center.

Things to know before you go

• While ramps make parts of the City Walls accessible, there are stepped sections and other portions that may be challenging for wheelchair users to navigate.

• There is no entry fee to the City Walls, and you don’t need to book tickets in advance.

• As the Chester City Walls are open to the elements, be sure to bring weather-appropriate gear like umbrellas or sunscreen, plus good walking shoes.

• Due to uneven paving stones, the City Walls may be hard to visit with a stroller.

How to get there

The Chester City Walls enclose the historic center of Chester. There are four main access points—Northgate, Eastgate, Watergate and Bridgegate—so you shouldn’t have to walk too far to reach them. The walls themselves are only open to pedestrians.

When to get there

The City Walls are open all day, every day. To take advantage of this open-air landmark, it’s best to visit on a sunny, good-weather day. Expect the site to be busier on weekends and holidays, and during the Chester Races.

Chester Roman Amphitheatre

For more evidence of Chester’s Roman past, head to another ancient highlight: the Chester Roman Amphitheatre. The largest amphitheatre of its kind in Britain, it’s located right outside the City Walls, and is a must for visiting history buffs.