Pemberton's Parlour
A Grade I listed red sandstone tower blending medieval fortification with Victorian refinement on Chester's historic city walls.
Pemberton's Parlour, also known as the Goblin Tower, is a Grade I listed historical landmark situated on the northern side of Chester's medieval city walls. This striking red sandstone structure, distinguished by its crenelated parapet, represents a fascinating chapter in the city's architectural heritage. The building seamlessly blends medieval foundations with Victorian-era modifications, offering visitors a tangible connection to centuries of Chester's urban development and character.
A brief summary to Pemberton's Parlour
- City Walls Rd, Chester, CH1 2NY, GB
- Duration: 0.25 to 1 hours
- Free
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
Local tips
- Visit during late afternoon or early evening when the red sandstone glows warmly in the setting sun, creating exceptional photography opportunities and a particularly atmospheric experience.
- Walk the complete circuit of Chester's city walls to fully appreciate Pemberton's Parlour's strategic position within the medieval defensive system and its relationship to surrounding landmarks.
- Examine the crenellated parapet and stonework details closely to understand the building's medieval military origins and the quality of craftsmanship evident in its construction.
- Combine your visit with exploration of nearby Chester attractions including the Cathedral, Roman amphitheater, and historic shopping rows to contextualize the city's layered history.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Information Boards
- Seating Areas
Getting There
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Walking from Chester City Centre
From Chester's historic city center, walk to the northern section of the city walls via Bridge Street or Northgate Street. The walk takes approximately 10–15 minutes depending on your starting point. Pemberton's Parlour is directly accessible from the city walls footpath on City Walls Road. No parking is required for this option, and the route is suitable for most fitness levels, though the walls themselves involve some uneven surfaces and steps.
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Local Bus Service
Several local bus routes serve the Chester city center area with stops near the northern city walls. Journey times from central Chester are typically 5–10 minutes depending on the specific route and traffic conditions. Bus fares are approximately £1.50–£2.50 per journey. Services run regularly throughout the day, though frequency varies by route and time of day.
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Taxi or Ride-Share
Taxis and ride-share services are readily available in Chester and can deliver you directly to City Walls Road near Pemberton's Parlour. Journey times from the city center are typically 5–10 minutes depending on traffic. Estimated fares range from £6–£12 for a short journey within Chester. This option is convenient if you have mobility limitations or prefer direct transport.
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Cycling
Chester is a relatively compact city suitable for cycling. From the city center, the journey to Pemberton's Parlour via City Walls Road takes approximately 10–15 minutes by bicycle. The route involves some hills and mixed surfaces, including sections on the city walls themselves which may be narrow. Bike parking is available near the city walls in several locations.
Pemberton's Parlour location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Clear Skies
Discover more about Pemberton's Parlour
A Medieval Tower with Victorian Refinement
Pemberton's Parlour stands as one of Chester's most distinctive architectural survivors, a Grade I listed building that commands attention from its position on the northern stretch of the city walls. Constructed from deep red sandstone, the structure's most recognizable feature is its crenelated parapet—the distinctive notched crown that once served defensive purposes and now defines its silhouette against the Chester skyline. The building's dual identity, known colloquially as the Goblin Tower, hints at the folklore and mystery that have accumulated around this historic structure over the centuries.Layers of History and Urban Evolution
The architectural narrative of Pemberton's Parlour encompasses both medieval and Victorian periods, making it a palimpsest of Chester's development. The original medieval foundations and framework reflect the city's importance as a Roman settlement and later medieval stronghold, while subsequent Victorian-era modifications and refinements speak to the building's adaptation and continued relevance through changing centuries. This layering of historical periods within a single structure provides visitors with a tangible understanding of how Chester evolved from a fortified medieval city into a prosperous Victorian commercial center, with Pemberton's Parlour serving as a physical bridge between these eras.Strategic Position Within the City Walls
Located along City Walls Road on the northern perimeter of Chester's famous defensive circuit, Pemberton's Parlour occupies a position of considerable historical significance. The city walls themselves represent one of the most complete and impressive examples of medieval fortification in Britain, and this particular structure's placement within that system underscores its role in the city's defensive and administrative infrastructure. Walking the walls and encountering Pemberton's Parlour provides context for understanding how Chester functioned as a fortified settlement and how individual buildings contributed to the broader urban defensive strategy.Architectural Distinction and Character
The red sandstone construction gives Pemberton's Parlour a warm, distinctive appearance that sets it apart from many other Chester landmarks. The crenellations are not merely decorative but represent authentic medieval military architecture, even where Victorian restoration or modification may have occurred. The building's proportions and detailing reflect the craftsmanship of its era, with the quality of stonework and architectural execution evident to anyone examining the structure closely. This attention to detail and the use of local red sandstone materials connect the building to Chester's broader architectural identity and the regional building traditions that shaped the city's character.A Living Monument to Chester's Past
As a Grade I listed building, Pemberton's Parlour enjoys the highest level of architectural protection in Britain, recognition of its historical and cultural significance. The structure remains accessible to visitors exploring Chester's city walls and historic quarter, allowing contemporary travelers to encounter the same building that has witnessed centuries of the city's transformation. Whether viewed from the walls themselves or approached from street level, Pemberton's Parlour continues to function as a tangible reminder of Chester's medieval foundations and Victorian prosperity, contributing to the rich historical atmosphere that defines the city's character and appeal to visitors seeking authentic connections with Britain's urban heritage.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Pemberton's Parlour
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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
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Bridge Of Sighs
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Chester Town Hall
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Chester War Memorial
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Wishing Steps
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Unmissable attractions to see
Morgan's Mount
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Partly
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Chester Free Walking Tours
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Escapism Chester
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Essential places to dine
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The Kitchen
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Pied Bull Restaurant
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Blue Bell
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Covino
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Green House
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Bollicini
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North Light Chester
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Veeno Chester
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Upstairs At The Grill
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Stile Napoletano
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Olive Tree Brasserie Chester
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Pars Kahve
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
The Crystal Hut New Chester Market
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Chester Zoo at The Market
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The Gift Shop
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Unique gifts and novelties in the heart of historic Chester's medieval city center.
The 2nd Floor Independent Shop
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Discover quirky, unique fashion and gifts with friendly service in Chester’s charming independent boutique on Upper Northgate Street.
CH.ONE
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Discover quirky, stylish bargains at CH.ONE, a unique ladies' clothing boutique in the heart of Chester's vibrant Northgate Street.
Sweetheart Vintage
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Discover unique vintage-inspired fashion accessories in the heart of Chester’s historic Watergate Street.
Rainforest
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Discover Chester’s serene spiritual gift shop with crystals, mindfulness tools, and warm hospitality at Rainforest on Watergate Street.
Reminis
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Explore Chester's hidden gem, Reminis Gift Shop, for unique souvenirs and local artisan treasures that capture the essence of your visit.
The Mug Doctor
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Chester's specialist mug retailer offering personalized drinkware and quirky gift finds.
Elephant
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Explore Chester's Elephant Gift Shop for unique, handcrafted gifts that celebrate local artistry and charm.
Fifi Bambu
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Discover the magic of Chester’s Watergate Street through Fifi Bambu, a charming gift shop filled with unique treasures and enchanting finds.
Harriet & Dee
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Lily Vintage Boutique
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Foxy Frox Boutique
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NICHOLS
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
The Guild Chester
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Prohibition
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BarLounge - Chester
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Havana Chester
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Palm Cocktail Bar & Eatery
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Watergates Bar
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Music Hall Tap
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Metronome Jazz Bar
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Slug & Lettuce - Chester
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The Cavern of the Curious Gnome
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Paysan
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The Architect
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The Church Chester Bar & Restaurant
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Nightclubs & after hour spots
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Rosies - Chester
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Cruise
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The Live Rooms
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Mandy & Graham’s
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The Blue Angel Nightclub
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Cool It
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For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Scenic
- Unique
- Romantic
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Historic
- Vintage Styles
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- Heritage Neighborhoods
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Panoramas
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Architectural Shots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Protected Area
- Locally Managed
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Myth & Legends
- Photowalk
- Day Trip
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
