Visiting The Rows in Chester

Step into the heart of Chester and you’ll discover one of its most iconic features: The Rows. These elevated, two-level walkways line the main streets of the city centre and house a fascinating mix of shops, boutiques and cafés. Unique to Chester and steeped in history, The Rows offer an experience unlike any other. Whether you’re visiting for a day out, a shopping trip, or simply enjoying the city’s charm, The Rows are well worth exploring.

Visiting The Rows in Chester - Chester Taxi Services

A Place Unlike Anywhere Else

The Rows are utterly unique in the UK. They are covered galleries set above street-level shops, accessed by staircases and offering a quieter, more sheltered shopping experience. You’ll find them across the main historic streets: Bridge Street, Eastgate Street, Watergate Street and Northgate Street. These upper-level walkways offer visitors the opportunity to explore two levels of retail, all within buildings that boast character.

Centuries Of Character

Dating back to the 13th century, the Rows have stood through many chapters of Chester’s history. Following destructive fires in the medieval period, many buildings were rebuilt with stone undercrofts and timber-framed upper levels. These walkways and recessed shopfronts have evolved but continue to reflect their medieval origins.

Writers such as Daniel Defoe and George Borrow praised The Rows in their travels. One of the most famous buildings, The Three Old Arches on Bridge Street, is believed to be one of the oldest surviving shopfronts in England. Behind many modern shopfronts, you can still find traces of Roman foundations and medieval design.

Modern Shopping In Historic Surroundings

The Rows are now home to a mix of independent retailers, national names, artisan traders and cafés. From fashion and jewellery to antiques and homewares, there is something for everyone. Whether you are browsing for gifts, enjoying a day out with friends or looking for something special, The Rows deliver a varied and welcoming experience.

Each Street Has Its Own Personality

Eastgate Street

This area is home to many well-known shops and department stores. You’ll also find smaller boutiques on the upper level and tucked-away gems like those along Godstall Lane, which branches off Eastgate.

Bridge Street

Well-known for its architecture, this street features a wide range of shops, including fashion, accessories, art, and jewellery. It’s also an excellent spot for tea rooms and independent cafes.

Watergate Street

Perfect for those who love antiques, books, and one-of-a-kind finds. You’ll also find some excellent places to eat and drink, with everything from coffee shops to lively restaurants.

Northgate Street

Home to Chester’s indoor market and the council offices, this area offers a mix of local shops, stalls and everyday essentials. It’s a quieter, yet equally enjoyable, part of the city to explore.

Make The Most Of Your Visit

The Rows are best explored at a relaxed pace. As some of the streets are cobbled and uneven, we recommend wearing comfortable footwear. Many upper-level shops are accessed via steps, so visitors with limited mobility may prefer to focus on street-level areas.

If you are visiting with a pushchair, wheelchair or require step-free access, Chester Taxi Services can assist with our wheelchair-friendly minibus taxis. We are happy to help you get as close as possible to your chosen shopping area and provide advice on the best access points.

Chester Taxi Services

There’s no need to worry about parking or public transport. Chester Taxi Services provides reliable, door-to-door travel directly to the heart of the city. Our drivers are local, DBS-checked and fully licensed by Cheshire West and Chester Council. We take pride in offering a friendly, safe and on-time service.

Whether you’re heading into Chester for shopping, sightseeing or a meal out, we can drop you close to The Rows and pick you up when you’re ready to head home.

More To See Nearby

If you want to make a day of it, there’s plenty more to explore near The Rows:

Chester Cathedral is just around the corner and offers guided tours, a café and access to the tower for panoramic city views.
Chester City Walls surround the centre and give you a scenic walk around the city with plenty of places to stop.
The Grosvenor Museum is ideal for history lovers and is just a few minutes’ walk from Watergate Street.
Chester Zoo and Blue Planet Aquarium are only a short taxi ride away and great options for families.

Enjoy The Rows At Your Own Pace

A visit to The Rows is a walk through centuries of history with all the conveniences of modern-day shopping. It’s a place where independent charm meets national names, and where every shopfront tells a story. Whether you’re here for an hour or a whole afternoon, you’ll leave with more than just your shopping bags.

Let our Taxis in Chester take care of the journey so you can focus on enjoying the experience. Book with us today and make the most of your visit to Chester’s most treasured streets.

Prefer an AI Summary?

Things to Do in Chester