The Rows are continuous half-timbered galleries, reached by steps, which form a second row of shops above those at street level along Watergate Street, Northgate Street, Eastgate Street and Bridge Street. The Rows are unique in the world to Chester, and nobody is quite sure why they were built in this way. Some original 13th century buildings, including the Three Old Arches in Bridge Street, have survived the ravages of time, but many of the impressive facades are Victorian copies. Nevertheless, they are still magnificent and greatly contribute to the beauty and character of Chester - says www.visitcheshire.com
These large scale black and white timber fronted buildings are on the corner of Eastgate Street and Bridge Street. They look very old, but are actually Victorian. The area above the steps bears the date 1888. I was pleased to see that many more modern buildings continue the two level shops of the Rows. These buildings give Chester a special character and make it a very attractive city.
Ah, The Rows! So iconic. Used to make candles in a shop on the upper floor on the right there and used to drink liqueur coffees with Elizabeth Shaw mints in the bar of The Criterion restaurant. Couldn't afford the food, but we loved that bar! An old friend of mine is the Town Crier who operates regularly at the spot where you are standing. Memories, memories.......
Impressive architecture. This is truly special, double storey shops with homes above.
Like the way you captured - you can almost see the people walking
fav
@carolmw@will_wooderson Thank you both for your comments and favs. I had forgotten just how many black and white buildings there were in Chester, and how different they make the city from most others.
Thank you both, I'm glad you like these fascinating buildings. I'm fascinated by such black and white buildings, and would love another trip to Chester for more photos.
Ian
June 19th, 2019
Leave a Comment
Sign up for a free account or Sign in to post a comment.
Like the way you captured - you can almost see the people walking
fav
Thank you all for your comments and favs, which put this shot on the Popular Page.
For me, The Rows are one of the stronger memories of previous visits to Chester, so I was pleased to take quite a few shots there on this visit.
Ian
Ian
Thank you both, I'm glad you like these fascinating buildings. I'm fascinated by such black and white buildings, and would love another trip to Chester for more photos.
Ian