The Rows in Chester are unique, medieval double-tiered shopping galleries that are over 700 to 800 years old, with origins tracing back to the late 13th century. While they began developing around the 1200s, they were likely fully established by the 1350s, constructed upon debris from the city's 2,000-year-old Roman fortress.
Whatever the reason, research suggests that the Rows probably began to develop in the late 13th century. The devastating fire suffered by the city in 1278, a period when Chester was an important medieval port, may have spurred their development as much of the city was rebuilt.
The Walls are about two miles long and were first built by the Romans nearly 2000 years ago. They were extended and developed in the Saxon period (10th century).
The Long Hall , South Great Georges St one of Dublin's finest Victorian pubs. Believe it or not but I was there one Saturday afternoon enjoying a quiet pint when in walks Bruce Springsteen! If it's good enough for Phil then it's good enough for The Boss...
Due to its long history, Chester is a mecca for those with a passion for architecture. Here you can find ancient Roman relics, like the amphitheatre and city walls, but also 13th century designs like the city's unique Chester Rows, Chester Cathedral and the Grade-listed public house, the Falcon.
Documented Viking activity at Chester started in AD 893, when the Anglo-Saxon Chronicle (Thorpe ed 1861 and Swanton ed 1996) tells us how the Danes moved rapidly to a deserted or desolate town 'in Wirral called Chester' and stayed there (until ~ AD 894/895) before embarking on a campaign of raiding in Wales.
Chester City Walls. The city walls are the oldest, longest and most complete in Britain, parts of which are almost 2000 years old. Chester is the only city in Britain that retains the full circuit of its ancient defensive walls.
The original cross dated from the 14th century. This cross was replaced by a new one in 1476. It consisted of an octagonal pillar surmounted by a carved head and a crucifix on its top. The cross was gilded in 1603.
Once the site of a Roman Fort named Deva Victrix, Chester allows visitors to imagine and explore what life was like when the city was under their rule. The City Walls date to Roman times, and visitors can walk them while enjoying spectacular views of landmarks and the hustle and bustle of daily life in Chester.
For England, Wales, and Northern Ireland as a whole, Chester is the 52nd safest major town, and the 974th most dangerous location out of all towns, cities, and villages.
Documented Viking activity at Chester started in AD893 when the Anglo Saxon Chronicle (see Thorpe, 1861) first tells us how in AD893 the Danes “moved rapidly to a desolate town in Wirral called Chester” and stayed there (until ~ AD895) before embarking on a campaign of raiding in Wales.
