A highlight of any Chester visit, the City Walls offer impressive views of famous landmarks and a chance for fresh air and exercise. Those walking its circuit can encounter 2,000 years’ worth of history as they step on Britain’s most complete defensive walls from both Roman and medieval times.
In this guide, you’ll find essential details regarding walking the walls and explore some of the highlights that their elevated views offer walkers. Read on to prepare and reveal what is in store when you ascend the Chester City Walls.
Key Information for Walking Chester City Walls
Before attempting to walk the walls, there are some important points to note.
A complete circuit of the walls covers a distance of around two miles (three kilometres). However, how long it takes to walk depends on pace, pauses and physical mobility. Typically, it takes between 45 minutes to an hour to walk the entirety of the Walls.
There are multiple points to ascend the walls and start walking, including Eastgate, Northgate, Bridgegate and Watergate, but popular entryways include access on Pepper Street or by the Eastgate Clock.
As a piece of history, parts of the wall have uneven surfaces and steep steps. However, ramps are installed to make them more accessible near various places like Newgate, Bonewalldesthorne’s Tower, Kaleyard Gate and the Castle.
To maximise enjoyment of walking the walls, evening and morning strolls are advised when crowds are thin. In summer heat, these times also makes the experience more comfortable.
Highlights of a City Walls Walk
Chester’s ancient walls offer a unique vantage point to see the city. From high up, you’ll have guards-eye view like a Roman legionary of old. See how many historic landmarks you can spot, like the Roman Amphitheatre which is visible close to Newgate, and the former Roman harbour from Watergate.
From the northern section of the city walls, you can photograph Chester’s Grade Listed Cathedral, while the three-faced Eastgate Clock can be sighted above the original Roman entrance. The world’s oldest active racing venue, Chester Racecourse can also be viewed from the walls, and Morgan’s Mount is a must-see monument; a watchtower and gun platform dating to the Civil War with views across the Dee to the hills of North Wales.
When planning your walk, remember to plot out points where you can descend to visit Chester’s wide range of pubs and restaurants for refreshments, and wear suitable clothes and footwear for your expedition.