Chester Castle has in impressive history having been built from timber originally on the banks of the River Dee. It was later strengthened with stone walls and officially founded by William the Conqueror in 1070. The city walls were extended around it to add further protection. The castle then became the administrative centre for Chester for many years. During the reigns of Henry III and Edward I, the castle was the military headquarters for the conquest of Wales. Further defensive building work was carried out during this period. One of the biggest changes at the castle was addition of a ‘modern’ building which was completed in 1813. It was originally built to serve as a military garrison but is today used as the county hall and courts.
Apart from the exterior walls, one of the oldest bits of the castle still standing is the 12th century Agricola Tower (pictured above). This was the original gatehouse to the castle. On its first floor is the simple chapel of St Mary de Castro (pictured below). This was also used as a gunpowder store at one point, hence the re-enforced door. We enjoyed walking on the castle walls the most on our visit. There’s a great view all around, but you can also see why the castle was built here with the original River Dee bridge in front of you, which was the main entrance to the city back then.
The castle and the Chester City Walls go hand-in-hand and you shouldn’t visit one without seeing the other. Together they created a powerful stronghold, standing for centuries, on the English/Welsh border. Chester Castle is open at weekends from 1st April to 31st October between 11am and 3pm. Admission is free.
LOCATION & MAP
Address: Chester Castle, Grosvenor Street, Chester CH1 2DN
Phone: 0370 333 1181
The castle is best visited while walking the City Walls as you have to go past it anyway. If you are on the Chester Hop-on, Hop-off Bus Tour there is a stop nearby.
MORE ON CHESTER CASTLE
Chester Castle – English Heritage
Chester Castle – Wikipedia
Hotels In Chester – Booking.com