The Rows
Chester Rows
A medieval two-level shopping arcade found nowhere else in the world. Black-and-white Tudor-style timber upper floors form covered walkways, making it Chester's most recognizable streetscape.
The Rows are two-level shopping galleries on Eastgate Street, Bridge Street, Northgate Street and Watergate Street, centered on Chester Cross. They have existed since the 13th century. Both the street level and the upper gallery have shops, and the upper level is roofed, so you can shop even when it rains. Most façades are in the Victorian-revival black-and-white Tudor style. There are also medieval cellars and buildings preserved in their original form, such as God's Providence House. This is where people go for shopping and afternoon tea, and it is free to explore. In summer, town criers perform at the crossroads at noon.
Opening hours
Open all day; shops about 9:30am–5:30pm
Nearby sights
- Chester Town Hall
- Chester Cathedral
- Eastgate Clock
- Storyhouse
- Grosvenor Museum
- Chester Roman Amphitheatre
- Chester City Walls
- Chester Castle