Chester's City Walls are the most complete Roman and medieval defensive town walls in Britain, first raised nearly 2,000 years ago around the Roman legionary fortress of Deva Victrix and completed in the medieval period. A walkway roughly 2 miles (3.2 km) long runs along the top, encircling the historic city, and its most famous point is the Eastgate, built on the site of the original Roman gateway, crowned by the ornate Eastgate Clock. Designed by architect John Douglas and added in 1899 to mark Queen Victoria's Diamond Jubilee, the clock is often called the most photographed clock in England after Big Ben. As of 2026 the wall walk remains free and open year-round, with most visitors starting beneath the Eastgate Clock for a circuit with views over the whole city.
Eastgate Clock - the ornate 1899 Diamond Jubilee clock set above the original Roman gateway; Chester's icon and signature photo spot
The full wall circuit - a roughly 2-mile (3.2 km) loop atop Roman and medieval walls with city views (about 45-90 minutes on foot)
Roman Amphitheatre - near Newgate, the largest known Roman amphitheatre in Britain
King Charles' Tower - a northeastern tower from which the king is said to have watched a Civil War battle
Watergate & River Dee views - the western walls overlooking the river and the site of the old Roman harbour, especially fine at sunset
Good to know
SafetyThe wall-top path has narrow, steep stone steps, uneven surfaces and, in places, low parapets with sheer drops. Hold children's hands and wear non-slip shoes, as the stone gets slippery after rain.
SafetySome stretches are closed for repair or structural reasons (for example the Morgan's Mount-Northgate section closed since 2011). Follow the signed diversions and do not climb over barriers.
SeasonRain is common in any season in the UK, so bring a waterproof and umbrella; the wall-top is exposed to wind. In winter, daylight fades early (around 4pm), so visit during daylight hours.
RulesWalking the walls is free and needs no booking. However, extras such as climbing the cathedral tower, museums and guided tours are paid; always check the latest prices and opening times.
MannersThe walkway is narrow and also used by locals walking, jogging and cycling. Don't monopolise the photo spot under the Eastgate Clock, and step aside to let others pass.
CautionThe Eastgate area is a busy shopping street (The Rows), so watch for pickpockets and mind your bag and phone. Book tours through official Chester operators rather than street touts.
Practical info
It is about a 15-20 minute walk from Chester railway station to the Eastgate Clock, and you can climb onto the walls at several points including Eastgate, Northgate and Pepper Street (nearby car parks: Chester Market and Little Roodee). The wall walk is free and open 24/7 year-round, but check the latest on any closed or repaired sections and the fees and hours of nearby paid attractions before you go.
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