The Antiques Shop, Chester: A Medieval Treasure Trove
Explore centuries of British history and craftsmanship in a rare medieval town house filled with genuine antiques in Chester’s historic Rows.
Nestled within the historic Rows of Chester, The Antiques Shop offers a captivating journey through British antique and vintage treasures. Housed in a rare late 13th-century medieval stone town house, this shop combines centuries of history with nearly 30 years of expert curation. Visitors can explore an eclectic collection of genuine antiques in an atmospheric setting that preserves medieval architecture alongside a charming 17th-century façade.
A brief summary to The Antiques Shop
- 21 Watergate St, Chester, CH1 2LE, GB
- +441244316286
- Visit website
- Duration: 0.5 to 1 hours
- Mid ranged
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Indoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
- Monday 11 am-5 pm
- Tuesday 11 am-5 pm
- Wednesday 11 am-5 pm
- Thursday 11 am-5 pm
- Friday 11 am-5 pm
- Saturday 10 am-5:30 pm
- Sunday 12 pm-4 pm
Local tips
- Visit on weekdays for a quieter browsing experience and expert advice from the longtime owner.
- Allow under an hour to explore the shop thoroughly, as the collection is compact but rich.
- Combine your visit with a walk through the Rows of Chester to appreciate the city’s medieval architecture.
- Check opening hours before visiting, especially on Sundays when hours are shorter.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
Getting There
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Bus
Local bus services connect Chester city center with stops near Watergate Street. Travel times vary from 10 to 20 minutes depending on your starting point. Buses run frequently during the day, with fares typically around £2-£4 for a single journey. Note that service frequency may reduce on Sundays.
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Train
Chester Railway Station is approximately 1.5 km from The Antiques Shop, about a 20-minute walk or a short taxi ride. Trains connect Chester with major cities like Liverpool and Manchester. Taxi fares from the station to the shop generally range from £5 to £8.
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Taxi
Taxis are readily available throughout Chester city center. A typical taxi ride to Watergate Street from central locations takes 5 to 10 minutes and costs between £5 and £10 depending on time and traffic.
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Walking
If you are already in Chester city center, walking to The Antiques Shop is straightforward and scenic, taking about 10 to 15 minutes over mostly flat, paved streets. The route passes through historic areas suitable for all fitness levels.
The Antiques Shop location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Rain / Wet Weather
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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about The Antiques Shop
A Living Medieval Landmark in Chester
The Antiques Shop is uniquely situated in one of Chester’s most fascinating historic buildings, dating back to circa 1290-1300. This late 13th-century medieval stone town house retains substantial original fabric, especially in its upper levels, offering visitors a rare glimpse into medieval urban architecture. While the shop’s façade reflects a 17th-century style, the interior preserves the authentic medieval structure, making the building itself a significant heritage site within the city.Curated British Antiques and Vintage Finds
Established in 1989 and operated by the same antiques dealer for nearly three decades, the shop specializes in genuine British antiques and vintage items. Its carefully curated stock ranges from decorative pieces to functional artefacts, including unique cast iron items sourced from regional farms. The collection reflects a broad spectrum of British history and craftsmanship, appealing to collectors and casual browsers alike.Atmosphere and Shopping Experience
Located at street level within the iconic Rows of Chester, the shop offers an intimate and atmospheric browsing experience. The medieval setting enhances the charm of the antiques on display, while the knowledgeable owner provides personal insights into the provenance and significance of many items. The shop’s layout encourages leisurely exploration, with treasures waiting to be discovered in every corner.Historical and Cultural Significance
The Antiques Shop is not only a retail destination but also a cultural landmark that embodies Chester’s rich history. The preservation of medieval architecture within a commercial space is rare, and the shop contributes to the city’s unique character by maintaining this heritage. It stands as a testament to Chester’s long-standing tradition of craftsmanship, trade, and preservation.Visiting Details and Local Context
Open six days a week with shorter hours on Sundays, the shop accommodates visitors seeking authentic antiques in a historic environment. Its central location on Watergate Street places it amidst Chester’s vibrant shopping and cultural district, making it an ideal stop for those exploring the city’s heritage. Nearby eateries and other attractions complement the visit, creating a full-day cultural experience.Legacy and Community Connection
Having been owned and run by the same dealer since its inception, The Antiques Shop has built a reputation for reliability and quality within the local and collector communities. Its longevity reflects a commitment to preserving and sharing British antique heritage. The shop continues to be a beloved fixture in Chester, drawing repeat visitors and new enthusiasts alike.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Chester Cross
0.1 km
Medieval heart of Chester where Roman streets meet Tudor architecture and civic tradition.
Crypt Chambers
0.2 km
Medieval crypt meets Victorian Gothic Revival in Chester's most architecturally significant commercial building.
Chester Visitor Information Centre
0.2 km
Explore Chester's rich history and vibrant culture at the Visitor Information Centre, your essential resource for navigating this historic city.
Chester Town Hall
0.2 km
A stunning Victorian Gothic Revival landmark, Chester Town Hall is the historic heart of Chester’s civic and cultural life.
Chester War Memorial
0.2 km
A solemn neo-medieval tribute to fallen soldiers, unveiled in 1922 within Chester Cathedral's historic grounds.
Ancient Roman Columns, Chester
0.2 km
Roman column bases marking Chester's legacy as a major legionary fortress and potential capital of Britannia.
Eastgate Clock
0.3 km
A Victorian clock atop a Roman gateway, Eastgate Clock is Chester’s most iconic meeting point and one of England’s most photographed timepieces.
Roman South East Corner Tower
0.3 km
Explore the enduring Roman South East Corner Tower, a sentinel of Chester’s ancient fortress and a testament to Roman military engineering.
Bridge Of Sighs
0.4 km
A haunting 1793 stone bridge where condemned prisoners took their final steps before execution—Chester's most poignant historical crossing.
Wishing Steps
0.4 km
Historic stone steps at Chester’s medieval walls where wishes come true through a charming local tradition.
Pemberton's Parlour
0.5 km
Explore Pemberton's Parlour, a striking red sandstone tower on Chester’s historic city walls, revealing centuries of medieval and Victorian heritage.
Bonewaldesthorne's Tower
0.5 km
Medieval gatehouse controlling Chester's western defenses, standing sentinel on Britain's most complete city walls.
Bridge Gate and Old Dee Bridge
0.5 km
Historic medieval gateway and ancient stone bridge spanning the scenic tidal River Dee in Chester’s charming riverside setting.
Churchill House
0.6 km
A vibrant academic landmark on Chester’s Queen’s Park campus, blending historic charm with modern learning and scenic riverside views.
Statue of Richard Grosvenor, Second Marquess of Westminster
0.8 km
Discover the monumental Statue of Richard Grosvenor in Chester, a testament to history and artistry surrounded by the charm of this ancient city.
Unmissable attractions to see
Deva Roman Experience
0.1 km
Immerse yourself in Chester's Roman past with interactive exhibits, live actors, and authentic ruins beneath the city streets.
Roman Strongroom
0.1 km
Explore Chester’s Roman Strongroom, a free historic site revealing ancient Roman military architecture and the city’s rich heritage.
Eastgate St
0.2 km
Walk through history on Eastgate Street, Chester’s vibrant Roman-rooted street famed for its medieval Rows and captivating local legends.
Town Hall
0.2 km
Explore Chester Town Hall, a majestic 19th-century Gothic Revival masterpiece and vibrant civic hub in the heart of historic Chester.
Edwardian Lady Tour
0.2 km
Discover Chester’s Edwardian charm on a captivating walking tour led by a guide in authentic period costume with exclusive Town Hall access.
Chester Free Walking Tours
0.2 km
Explore Chester’s rich history and iconic landmarks on a free, expert-led walking tour through the heart of this ancient city.
Chester Town Hall Square
0.2 km
Historic Chester Town Hall Square offers stunning Gothic Revival architecture and a lively cultural hub in the heart of Chester.
Sick To Death
0.2 km
Explore Chester’s unique interactive museum revealing the gruesome history of medicine, disease, and healthcare through immersive exhibits and dark humor.
Statue of Janya - the Baby Elephant
0.2 km
A lifelike bronze baby elephant statue symbolizing life, friendship, and Chester’s bond with its zoo, nestled in the historic city center.
Grosvenor Shopping Centre
0.2 km
Chester's premier shopping destination blending 70 diverse retailers with historic charm and modern convenience.
Stanley Palace
0.2 km
Discover Chester’s finest Tudor house, Stanley Palace—a historic, atmospheric venue famed for its stunning Elizabethan architecture and ghostly tales.
Chester Cathedral
0.2 km
Discover Chester Cathedral’s timeless blend of medieval grandeur, vibrant worship, and breathtaking views atop its historic tower.
Chester In Lego
0.2 km
Explore Chester’s iconic landmarks reimagined in vibrant Lego bricks at this interactive, family-friendly exhibit in Market Exchange Square.
Garden of the Honourable Cheshire Regiment
0.2 km
A tranquil memorial garden in Chester Cathedral’s precincts honoring the valor and sacrifice of the Cheshire Regiment’s soldiers.
Chester Market
0.3 km
Discover Chester Market’s vibrant mix of local produce, global flavors, artisan crafts, and lively community spirit in a modern, accessible setting.
Essential places to dine
Olive Tree Brasserie Chester
0.0 km
Experience authentic Mediterranean and Greek cuisine in Chester’s historic Watergate Street with warm ambiance and vibrant dining options.
Pars Kahve
0.0 km
Experience authentic Turkish cuisine and warm hospitality in the heart of Chester’s historic Watergate Street.
Stile Napoletano
0.1 km
Experience authentic Neapolitan pizza crafted with passion and tradition in the heart of Chester’s historic district.
Urbano 32
0.1 km
Authentic sourdough pizzas from a wood-fired clay oven in the heart of Chester, served in a stylish urban-chic pizzeria and bar.
Côte Chester
0.1 km
A stylish French brasserie in Chester’s city centre offering classic dishes, diverse menus, and a welcoming atmosphere for all occasions.
Shrub
0.1 km
Innovative vegan dining with Mediterranean and East Asian flair in Chester’s iconic Eastgate Row, featuring creative cocktails and a relaxed urban pastoral vibe.
Carbonara at No 49
0.1 km
Experience authentic Roman Italian flavors in Chester’s historic Bridge Street setting, blending tradition, warmth, and local produce.
Upstairs At The Grill
0.2 km
Chester’s stylish steakhouse with locally sourced beef, a chic cocktail bar, and panoramic terrace views for an indulgent dining experience.
Duttons
0.2 km
Chester’s stylish modern European bistro blending classic charm with fresh seasonal cuisine and vibrant cocktails in a cozy, elegant setting.
Veeno Chester
0.2 km
Discover authentic Italian flavors at Veeno Chester – where exquisite wine meets delectable cuisine in a charming atmosphere.
Bella Italia - Chester
0.2 km
Classic Italian dining with authentic flavors in a charming historic building at Chester’s vibrant Eastgate Street.
Da Noi Chester
0.2 km
Experience authentic Piedmontese Italian cuisine with exquisite wine pairings in Chester’s intimate Michelin-recognized Da Noi.
The Botanist Chester
0.2 km
Experience the vibrant atmosphere at The Botanist Chester - where delicious food meets live music in a beautifully designed setting.
Moules a go-go Bar & Bistro
0.2 km
Chester’s vibrant bistro specializing in fresh Anglesey mussels, offering a lively atmosphere and diverse seafood dishes since 1999.
Chef's Table
0.2 km
Discover inventive modern British cuisine in a bright, welcoming setting at Chef's Table, Chester’s acclaimed seasonal dining destination.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Fifi Bambu
0.0 km
Discover the magic of Chester’s Watergate Street through Fifi Bambu, a charming gift shop filled with unique treasures and enchanting finds.
Elephant
0.0 km
Explore Chester's Elephant Gift Shop for unique, handcrafted gifts that celebrate local artistry and charm.
Harriet & Dee
0.0 km
Charming boutique gift and baby shop in Chester’s historic Watergate Street, known for unique presents and friendly service.
Reminis
0.0 km
Explore Chester's hidden gem, Reminis Gift Shop, for unique souvenirs and local artisan treasures that capture the essence of your visit.
Rainforest
0.1 km
Discover Chester’s serene spiritual gift shop with crystals, mindfulness tools, and warm hospitality at Rainforest on Watergate Street.
NICHOLS
0.1 km
Discover Nichols, Chester’s quirky boutique blending unique ladies’ fashion with antique treasures in a charming historic setting.
Suzie K
0.1 km
Discover Chester’s magical alternative gift shop blending unique fashion, crystals, and holistic services in a warm, welcoming atmosphere.
Chester Boutique
0.1 km
Discover curated contemporary fashion in Chester’s vibrant Bridge Street boutique, blending style with historic charm.
Jigsaw
0.1 km
Upscale women's fashion boutique blending timeless style with Chester’s historic charm on Bridge Street.
Rock Bottom / Florence & Company
0.1 km
Chester’s vibrant ladies' boutique offering fresh fashion, unique jewelry, and stylish scarves in a welcoming city center setting.
Menkind
0.1 km
Discover quirky gifts, gadgets, and tech accessories for men and boys in the heart of Chester’s historic shopping district.
Sweetheart Vintage
0.1 km
Discover unique vintage-inspired fashion accessories in the heart of Chester’s historic Watergate Street.
The Mug Doctor
0.1 km
Chester's specialist mug retailer offering personalized drinkware and quirky gift finds.
Harley’s Vintage Boutique
0.1 km
Discover timeless vintage fashion and expert styling in Chester’s charming Harley’s Vintage Boutique on Bridge Street Row.
Styled Boutique
0.2 km
A warm, independent women’s boutique in Chester’s historic centre, offering easy-to-wear fashion and a personal, friendly shopping experience.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Watergates Bar
0.0 km
Historic 12th-century crypt pub in Chester city centre, serving classic British fare and real ales in a lively, family-friendly atmosphere.
Palm Cocktail Bar & Eatery
0.0 km
Chester’s vibrant cocktail bar with expertly crafted drinks, lively atmosphere, and friendly service on historic Watergate Street.
Havana Chester
0.1 km
Lively Cuban-inspired bar and restaurant on Chester’s historic Watergate Street, offering vibrant music, tapas, and creative cocktails.
Commonhall Street Social
0.1 km
A cozy, dog-friendly bar with craft beers, delicious food, and a lively outdoor terrace in the heart of Chester’s city centre.
Prohibition
0.1 km
Step into Chester’s Prohibition for expertly crafted cocktails and a vibrant 1920s speakeasy vibe in a cozy, intimate setting.
Slug & Lettuce - Chester
0.1 km
Lively cocktail bar and restaurant on Chester’s historic Bridge Street, blending vibrant social vibes with diverse food and drink offerings.
The Guild Chester
0.1 km
Chester’s stylish cocktail bar and live music venue with two bars, terrace, and a vibrant yet intimate atmosphere.
BarLounge - Chester
0.2 km
Chester’s premier lounge bar blending refined comfort food with creative cocktails in a stylish, welcoming setting.
Music Hall Tap
0.2 km
Chester’s lively craft beer pub with rustic charm, live sports, and a vibrant social scene in the heart of the city.
The Cavern of the Curious Gnome
0.2 km
A cozy upstairs bar in Chester famed for its curated Belgian ales, continental lagers, and British craft beers paired with classic comfort food.
Paysan
0.2 km
Chester’s cozy wine bar with 200+ wines downstairs and a vibrant beer cellar upstairs, perfect for relaxed evenings and casual gatherings.
Metronome Jazz Bar
0.2 km
Chester’s intimate jazz bar with live piano, vinyl classics, and a warm, candlelit atmosphere for a perfect night out.
The Church Chester Bar & Restaurant
0.2 km
Historic church turned vibrant bar and restaurant in Chester, blending classic charm with modern dining and lively atmosphere.
All Bar One Chester
0.3 km
Stylish wine bar in Chester’s city center offering expertly crafted drinks and a vibrant social atmosphere.
Red Door
0.3 km
Vibrant late-night cocktail bar and restaurant in Chester’s city center, known for creative drinks and lively music.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Chester City Club
0.1 km
Experience Chester’s vibrant nightlife at City Club, where modern beats meet historic charm in the heart of St Peters Churchyard.
Rosies - Chester
0.1 km
Experience Chester’s vibrant nightlife at Rosies, a multiroom club with rooftop terrace, VIP lounges, and cutting-edge sound over three lively floors.
Cruise
0.3 km
A multi-floor nightclub in Chester offering vibrant music, premium drinks, and lively nightlife across seven bars.
BONOBO Bar & Canteen
0.3 km
A vibrant two-floor bar and canteen in Chester blending American eats, cocktails, video games, and lively music for a unique nightlife experience.
The Live Rooms
1.0 km
Discover Chester's vibrant nightlife at The Live Rooms, where live music, comedy, and unforgettable experiences await.
Mandy & Graham’s
2.6 km
Experience Chester’s vibrant nightlife at Mandy & Graham’s, where pulsating beats and lively crowds create unforgettable party nights.
Ewloe Social and Community Club Ltd
10.9 km
Experience the heart of Deeside at Ewloe Social and Community Club, where fun, games, and community spirit come together.
Bryn Griffiths W M Social Club
16.9 km
Discover the vibrant community spirit at Bryn Griffiths W M Social Club in Mold, where fun meets fellowship and local culture thrives.
North Wales Celebrations Wedding & Party Disco DJ
16.9 km
Elevate your celebrations with North Wales Celebrations - the premier mobile disco DJ service for unforgettable weddings and parties.
The Magnet Club
17.2 km
Wrexham’s independent venue since 1984, The Magnet Club blends live music, sports, and social games in a welcoming, refurbished space on King Street.
Flint Royal British Legion Social Club
17.4 km
A welcoming social hub in Flint supporting veterans and community through camaraderie, remembrance, and local events.
The Establishment
21.9 km
A vibrant Widnes nightclub offering lively events, friendly staff, and a spacious venue for unforgettable nights out.
Supper Club at Blundell Street
23.8 km
Liverpool's ultimate supper club: fuel up on hearty meals, then dance the night away to drag shows, tributes, and non-stop hits near Echo Arena.
The Blue Angel Nightclub
24.1 km
Liverpool's dingy dive for 60s rock legends, dirt-cheap drinks, and sweaty throwback dances—where The Beatles once rocked and students still rage till dawn.
Cool It
24.2 km
A multi-level, student-friendly nightclub on Seel Street offering loud DJ nights, bargain entry and packed late‑night dancefloors.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Unique
- Relaxing
- Scenic
- Casual
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Vintage Styles
- Rustic Designs
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- Heritage Neighborhoods
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Architectural Shots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Locally Managed
- Public-Transport Accessible
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Day Trip
- Weekend Getaway
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Friendly
