Chester Rows

The Chester Rows are a unique architectural treasure found nowhere else in the world, a series of covered, two-tier shopping galleries lining the main streets of the historic walled city of Chester in north-west England. Dating back to medieval times, the Rows consist of continuous walkways at first-floor level, running through the fronts of the buildings, so that there are effectively two levels of shops: those at street level, and a second tier of shops accessed along the elevated covered galleries above. Set within Chester's beautiful black-and-white timbered (and Victorian mock-Tudor) buildings, the effect is wonderfully atmospheric, a medieval shopping arcade still in everyday use.

The Rows are the centrepiece of Chester's exceptionally well-preserved historic core, which also boasts complete Roman and medieval city walls, a cathedral, and a Roman amphitheatre. Wandering both levels of the Rows is a delight, mixing history with modern shops and cafés. Free to explore, they're best enjoyed on foot. Combine with a walk along the city walls.

Don't miss

• Unique two-tier covered medieval shopping galleries
• Black-and-white timbered and mock-Tudor buildings
• A living arcade still full of shops and cafés
• The heart of Chester's historic walled city
• Found nowhere else in the world

Tickets & tours

Ways to visit Chester Rows

Cheapest way inHaunted Chester and its Ghosts: A Self-Guided Walking Tour4.8★ · 20 travelers1–2 hoursFree cancellationFrom$9 per personSee dates →Most bookedFascinating Walking Tours Of Roman Chester With An Authentic Roman Soldier4.9★ · 1,299 travelers~2 hoursFree cancellationFrom$16 per personSee dates →Private & flexibleTours of Colchester5★ · 272 travelers~2 hoursFree cancellationFrom$27 per personSee dates →

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Know before you go

• Explore both levels, there are shops at street level and along the raised galleries.
• The Rows are unique to Chester, found nowhere else in the world.
• Combine with a walk along Chester's complete city walls.
• Free to wander, set among beautiful timbered buildings.

A bit of history

The Chester Rows date from the 13th–14th centuries, possibly developing over the rubble of Roman ruins, and are unique in the world. Their distinctive two-level galleried form has been preserved and added to over the centuries, including with Victorian-era mock-Tudor frontages.