Eastgate Clock
England's second most photographed clock, crowning two millennia of history atop Chester's ancient Roman gateway.
Perched atop Chester's ancient Eastgate arch, this ornate Victorian clock stands as one of England's most iconic timepieces. Built in 1899 to commemorate Queen Victoria's Diamond Jubilee, the clock features intricate wrought ironwork, gilded details, and four distinctive clock faces set within an open iron pavilion. Positioned on the city's historic Roman walls, it has become the second most photographed clock in England after Big Ben, serving as both a beloved meeting point and a tangible link to two millennia of Chester's layered history.
A brief summary to Eastgate Clock
- 41-45 Eastgate St, Chester, CH1 1LE, GB
- Visit website
- Duration: 0.25 to 1.5 hours
- Free
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 5 out of 5
Local tips
- Walk the city walls for the best elevated views of the clock and surrounding Chester. The walls form a complete circuit and offer panoramic perspectives unavailable from street level.
- Visit early morning or late afternoon for optimal photography, when light angles enhance the clock's gilded details and ironwork without harsh shadows.
- Explore the adjacent Rows—Chester's unique half-timbered galleries—which offer shopping and dining with views of the clock from multiple levels.
- Combine your visit with a stroll along the Groves riverside promenade, just minutes away, for a complete Chester experience spanning Roman heritage to Victorian architecture.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Seating Areas
- Food Options
- Drink Options
- Information Boards
- Restrooms
Getting There
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Walking from Chester City Centre
From Chester's main shopping district, walk towards Eastgate Street. The clock is visible from considerable distances and serves as a natural landmark. The walk from the town hall takes approximately 5–10 minutes depending on your starting point. The location is at street level with direct pedestrian access; no special equipment or permits required.
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Public Transport via Bus
Multiple local bus routes serve Chester's city centre, with stops within 2–5 minutes' walk of Eastgate Clock. Journey times from surrounding areas typically range from 10–25 minutes depending on origin. Buses run regularly throughout the day; service frequency varies by route and time of day. Single fares typically cost £1.50–£3.00 GBP.
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Train to Chester Station
Chester Railway Station is approximately 15–20 minutes' walk from Eastgate Clock, or a short taxi ride costing £6–£10 GBP. Regular train services connect Chester to Manchester, Liverpool, North Wales, and London. From the station, follow signs towards the city centre; the clock becomes visible as you approach Eastgate Street.
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Parking in Chester City Centre
Several car parks operate within Chester's medieval centre, typically 3–8 minutes' walk from Eastgate Clock. Parking charges range from £1.50–£3.00 GBP per hour, with daily rates around £8–£15 GBP. The Eastgate Clock itself sits on the historic city walls, which are pedestrianised; vehicles cannot access the immediate area.
Eastgate Clock location weather suitability
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Any Weather
Discover more about Eastgate Clock
Two Millennia of Gateway Heritage
The Eastgate Clock occupies one of Chester's most historically significant locations, standing directly above the original entrance to the Roman fortress of Deva Victrix, established in the 1st century AD. For nearly 2,000 years, this gateway has served as a principal entry point into the city, witnessing the march of Roman legions, the passage of medieval merchants, and the daily life of countless generations. The current sandstone archway, a three-arched Georgian structure, dates from 1768 and forms part of Chester's remarkable circuit of city walls—the longest and most complete in Britain, stretching approximately two miles around the medieval centre.A Victorian Celebration in Iron and Gilt
The iconic clock was added in 1899, designed by renowned local architect John Douglas, to commemorate Queen Victoria's Diamond Jubilee celebrating her 60 years on the throne. This elegant timepiece represents a period of civic pride and architectural ambition in Chester at the turn of the 20th century. The structure consists of four clock faces set within an open iron pavilion supported by decorated pylons, crowned with a copper ogee dome and a gilded weather vane featuring a lion motif. Each face carries specific inscriptions: the eastern side commemorates Victoria's 60th regnal year, the western acknowledges the civic officials of 1897–1898, the southern pays tribute to Edward Evans-Lloyd who championed the project, and the northern notes that the clock was funded by public subscription, reflecting genuine community involvement in its creation.Architectural Distinction and Craftsmanship
The clock's design seamlessly blends Victorian engineering with artistic refinement, its intricate wrought ironwork and gilded details creating a structure of considerable visual distinction. The open pavilion design allows the mechanism to be viewed from multiple angles, while the elevated position on the ancient city walls makes it a commanding focal point visible from considerable distances. The craftsmanship evident in every detail—from the decorated pylons to the ornamental weather vane—reflects the prosperity and architectural confidence of late 19th-century Chester. The entire structure, gateway and clock combined, was designated as a Grade I listed building in 1955, recognising its outstanding historical and architectural importance.Cultural Icon and Meeting Place
Today, the Eastgate Clock ranks as the second most photographed clock in England, a distinction that speaks to its enduring appeal and iconic status. It has become woven into Chester's cultural fabric, serving as a familiar meeting point for locals and a constant source of wonder for visitors. The clock's elevated position on the city walls provides a natural gathering spot where residents and tourists pause to admire its intricate detailing or capture panoramic views of the surrounding medieval streetscape. Its continuous presence above Eastgate Street acts as a living museum, connecting passersby to the rich layers of history beneath their feet and serving as a tangible symbol of Chester's architectural heritage and civic pride.Stories and Legends
With such prominence, the Eastgate Clock has naturally attracted its share of local stories and myths. Local lore claims that the clock deliberately has only three functioning dials, with the west face left blank, so the clock "turns its back" on Wales—a playful reference to historic Anglo-Welsh rivalries, though historians regard this tale as likely apocryphal. Among Chester's ghostly legends, the story of Sarah, a young chambermaid, lingers beneath the clock. According to local tradition, she was in love with a soldier stationed at the gate, and their secret meetings ended tragically when Sarah, hurrying to meet him, was struck by a speeding carriage near Eastgate and killed instantly. Such stories add layers of human narrative to the clock's physical presence, enriching its significance beyond mere timekeeping.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Eastgate Clock
0.0 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.
Crypt Chambers
0.1 km
Medieval crypt meets Victorian Gothic Revival in Chester's most architecturally significant commercial building.
Chester War Memorial
0.2 km
A solemn neo-medieval tribute to fallen soldiers, unveiled in 1922 within Chester Cathedral's historic grounds.
Roman South East Corner Tower
0.2 km
Explore the enduring Roman South East Corner Tower, a sentinel of Chester’s ancient fortress and a testament to Roman military engineering.
Chester Cross
0.2 km
Medieval heart of Chester where Roman streets meet Tudor architecture and civic tradition.
Chester Visitor Information Centre
0.3 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
0.3 km
A stunning Victorian Gothic Revival landmark, Chester Town Hall is the historic heart of Chester’s civic and cultural life.
Ancient Roman Columns, Chester
0.3 km
Roman column bases marking Chester's legacy as a major legionary fortress and potential capital of Britannia.
Wishing Steps
0.4 km
Historic stone steps at Chester’s medieval walls where wishes come true through a charming local tradition.
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.
Churchill House
0.5 km
A vibrant academic landmark on Chester’s Queen’s Park campus, blending historic charm with modern learning and scenic riverside views.
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.
Pemberton's Parlour
0.6 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
0.7 km
Medieval gatehouse controlling Chester's western defenses, standing sentinel on Britain's most complete city walls.
Uffington House, Chester
0.7 km
Victorian literary landmark where author Thomas Hughes built his Chester residence in 1885.
Unmissable attractions to see
Eastgate St
0.1 km
Walk through history on Eastgate Street, Chester’s vibrant Roman-rooted street famed for its medieval Rows and captivating local legends.
Garden of the Honourable Cheshire Regiment
0.1 km
A tranquil memorial garden in Chester Cathedral’s precincts honoring the valor and sacrifice of the Cheshire Regiment’s soldiers.
Chester Cathedral
0.2 km
Discover Chester Cathedral’s timeless blend of medieval grandeur, vibrant worship, and breathtaking views atop its historic tower.
Chester Art Trail
0.2 km
Discover Chester’s vibrant creativity on a dynamic art trail showcasing local talent and transforming the city’s streets into an open-air gallery.
Chester Roman Amphitheatre
0.2 km
Explore Britain’s largest Roman amphitheatre, a remarkable open-air archaeological site revealing Chester’s rich Roman heritage and ancient spectacles.
Roman Strongroom
0.2 km
Explore Chester’s Roman Strongroom, a free historic site revealing ancient Roman military architecture and the city’s rich heritage.
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.
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.
Chester Free Walking Tours
0.3 km
Explore Chester’s rich history and iconic landmarks on a free, expert-led walking tour through the heart of this ancient city.
The Antiques Shop
0.3 km
Explore centuries of British history and craftsmanship in a rare medieval town house filled with genuine antiques in Chester’s historic Rows.
Town Hall
0.3 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
0.3 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 Roman Gardens
0.3 km
Explore Chester’s serene Roman Gardens, where ancient ruins blend with lush greenery alongside historic city walls.
The Nine Houses
0.3 km
Discover Chester’s rare 17th-century almshouses—six beautifully restored timber-framed cottages steeped in history and architectural charm.
Chester Rows Cafe
0.3 km
A cozy coffee spot nestled in Chester Visitor Centre, offering a welcoming pause amidst the city’s historic Rows and vibrant heritage.
Essential places to dine
La Brasserie at The Chester Grosvenor
0.0 km
Experience vibrant modern European dining and a glamorous Champagne bar in the heart of historic Chester at La Brasserie, The Chester Grosvenor.
Arkle
0.0 km
Discover refined British fine dining with seasonal tasting menus and impeccable service at Arkle, Chester’s premier luxury restaurant.
Bella Italia - Chester
0.1 km
Classic Italian dining with authentic flavors in a charming historic building at Chester’s vibrant Eastgate Street.
Ristorante Sergio
0.1 km
Cozy Italian dining with authentic flavors and friendly service in the heart of Chester’s historic district.
The Botanist Chester
0.1 km
Experience the vibrant atmosphere at The Botanist Chester - where delicious food meets live music in a beautifully designed setting.
Duttons
0.1 km
Chester’s stylish modern European bistro blending classic charm with fresh seasonal cuisine and vibrant cocktails in a cozy, elegant setting.
Shrub
0.2 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.
Rio Brazilian Steakhouse
0.2 km
Authentic Brazilian churrascaria with premium meats, vibrant atmosphere, and exceptional service in the heart of Chester.
Frodsham's Grill Chester
0.2 km
Authentic Mediterranean and Turkish charcoal-grilled delights served in a welcoming Chester setting with attentive service and a lively atmosphere.
Veeno Chester
0.2 km
Discover authentic Italian flavors at Veeno Chester – where exquisite wine meets delectable cuisine in a charming atmosphere.
Piccolino Chester
0.2 km
Stylish Italian dining with vibrant prosecco bar and alfresco terrace in Chester’s lively city centre.
Pars Kahve
0.2 km
Experience authentic Turkish cuisine and warm hospitality in the heart of Chester’s historic Watergate Street.
Urbano 32
0.2 km
Authentic sourdough pizzas from a wood-fired clay oven in the heart of Chester, served in a stylish urban-chic pizzeria and bar.
Artezzan Restaurant & Bar
0.2 km
Vibrant Mediterranean dining with fresh, honest flavors and handcrafted drinks in Chester’s lively Pepper Street venue.
Carbonara at No 49
0.2 km
Experience authentic Roman Italian flavors in Chester’s historic Bridge Street setting, blending tradition, warmth, and local produce.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Church Gifts Shop
0.0 km
Discover meaningful religious gifts in Chester’s historic heart at the welcoming Church Gifts Shop on Eastgate Street.
About you
0.1 km
Contemporary clothing store at Chester’s Grosvenor Shopping Centre, blending modern fashion with historic city charm.
Gift Company CHESTER
0.1 km
Discover eclectic gifts and stylish homewares in Chester’s charming Grosvenor Precinct at Gift Company Chester.
Søstrene Grene
0.1 km
Discover Scandinavian-inspired home décor, crafts, and gifts at Søstrene Grene Chester, a charming and affordable treasure trove in the city center.
Foxy Frox Boutique
0.1 km
A stylish women’s clothing boutique in Chester’s historic center, offering contemporary fashion with a personal touch and a relaxed, independent vibe.
Lily Vintage Boutique
0.1 km
Discover timeless style and unique vintage fashion at Lily Vintage Boutique in Chester’s historic St Werburgh Street.
Menkind
0.2 km
Discover quirky gifts, gadgets, and tech accessories for men and boys in the heart of Chester’s historic shopping district.
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.
The Mug Doctor
0.2 km
Chester's specialist mug retailer offering personalized drinkware and quirky gift finds.
NICHOLS
0.2 km
Discover Nichols, Chester’s quirky boutique blending unique ladies’ fashion with antique treasures in a charming historic setting.
Rock Bottom / Florence & Company
0.2 km
Chester’s vibrant ladies' boutique offering fresh fashion, unique jewelry, and stylish scarves in a welcoming city center setting.
Jigsaw
0.2 km
Upscale women's fashion boutique blending timeless style with Chester’s historic charm on Bridge Street.
Harley’s Vintage Boutique
0.2 km
Discover timeless vintage fashion and expert styling in Chester’s charming Harley’s Vintage Boutique on Bridge Street Row.
Suzie K
0.2 km
Discover Chester’s magical alternative gift shop blending unique fashion, crystals, and holistic services in a warm, welcoming atmosphere.
Chester Boutique
0.2 km
Discover curated contemporary fashion in Chester’s vibrant Bridge Street boutique, blending style with historic charm.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Red Door
0.1 km
Vibrant late-night cocktail bar and restaurant in Chester’s city center, known for creative drinks and lively music.
Metronome Jazz Bar
0.1 km
Chester’s intimate jazz bar with live piano, vinyl classics, and a warm, candlelit atmosphere for a perfect night out.
Music Hall Tap
0.1 km
Chester’s lively craft beer pub with rustic charm, live sports, and a vibrant social scene in the heart of the city.
City Tavern
0.2 km
Historic Chester pub blending traditional charm with lively entertainment, great food, and a vibrant community atmosphere.
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
0.2 km
Stylish wine bar in Chester’s city center offering expertly crafted drinks and a vibrant social atmosphere.
Watergates Bar
0.2 km
Historic medieval crypt pub in Chester city centre with vaulted ceilings, classic British fare, real ales, and a lively yet family-friendly vibe.
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
0.3 km
Chester’s cozy wine bar with 200+ wines downstairs and a vibrant beer cellar upstairs, perfect for relaxed evenings and casual gatherings.
Slug & Lettuce - Chester
0.3 km
Lively cocktail bar and restaurant on Chester’s historic Bridge Street, blending vibrant social vibes with diverse food and drink offerings.
Commonhall Street Social
0.3 km
A cozy, dog-friendly bar with craft beers, delicious food, and a lively outdoor terrace in the heart of Chester’s city centre.
Brewhouse & Kitchen - Chester
0.3 km
Chester’s vibrant brewpub serving award-winning craft beers, hearty British classics, and a lively community atmosphere on Love Street.
Palm Cocktail Bar & Eatery
0.3 km
Chester’s vibrant cocktail bar with expertly crafted drinks, lively atmosphere, and friendly service on historic Watergate Street.
Havana Chester
0.3 km
Lively Cuban-inspired bar and restaurant on Chester’s historic Watergate Street, offering vibrant music, tapas, and creative cocktails.
Revolution Chester
0.4 km
Lively cocktail bar and restaurant in Chester city centre, perfect for socialising, dining, and celebrations with expertly mixed drinks and vibrant atmosphere.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Cruise
0.1 km
A multi-floor nightclub in Chester offering vibrant music, premium drinks, and lively nightlife across seven bars.
BONOBO Bar & Canteen
0.2 km
A vibrant two-floor bar and canteen in Chester blending American eats, cocktails, video games, and lively music for a unique nightlife experience.
Rosies - Chester
0.2 km
Experience Chester’s vibrant nightlife at Rosies, a multiroom club with rooftop terrace, VIP lounges, and cutting-edge sound over three lively floors.
Chester City Club
0.4 km
Experience Chester’s vibrant nightlife at City Club, where modern beats meet historic charm in the heart of St Peters Churchyard.
The Live Rooms
0.8 km
Discover Chester's vibrant nightlife at The Live Rooms, where live music, comedy, and unforgettable experiences await.
Mandy & Graham’s
2.4 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
11.1 km
Experience the heart of Deeside at Ewloe Social and Community Club, where fun, games, and community spirit come together.
North Wales Celebrations Wedding & Party Disco DJ
17.1 km
Elevate your celebrations with North Wales Celebrations - the premier mobile disco DJ service for unforgettable weddings and parties.
Bryn Griffiths W M Social Club
17.2 km
Discover the vibrant community spirit at Bryn Griffiths W M Social Club in Mold, where fun meets fellowship and local culture thrives.
The Magnet Club
17.4 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
17.6 km
A welcoming social hub in Flint supporting veterans and community through camaraderie, remembrance, and local events.
The Establishment
21.7 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
- Scenic
- Unique
- Romantic
- Entertaining
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Victorian Styles
- Industrial Designs
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- Viewpoints
- Heritage Neighborhoods
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Panoramas
- Skyline
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Architectural Shots
- Aesthetic Corners
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Protected Area
- Locally Managed
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Myth & Legends
- Day Trip
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
