Chester Cathedral

Chester Cathedral showing heritage architecture, a garden and a church or cathedral
Chester Cathedral
Chester Cathedral featuring road cycling, signage and a city
Chester Cathedral which includes a church or cathedral, religious elements and heritage architecture
Chester Cathedral which includes a church or cathedral, heritage architecture and a park


Climb to the top of a landmark bell tower for views of the city or watch birds of prey flying overhead at the falconry in this historic church.

Chester Cathedral is a majestic religious structure with a fascinating medieval history. Formerly a Benedictine abbey, the church has melded many English architectural styles, from Norman to perpendicular Gothic. Explore the large complex to discover its freestanding bell tower, monastic buildings and scenic grounds.

It is believed that the cathedral site has had religious significance since Roman and prehistoric times.

Approaching the building, note how the sandstone exterior gives the church a pale red glow. Gaze up at the 15th-century perpendicular-style tower that rises above the rest of the cathedral. The western façade has intricate details within its elegant windows and buttresses. Note the elaborate windows above the doorway as you enter the church.

Relish the spacious and serene feel of the church’s interior. Take a guided tour and learn about the site’s interesting features. These include the 13th-century Lady Chapel with its stone shrine and the brightly colored stained-glass windows of the cloister. Follow your tour guide up the church’s bell tower for panoramic views of the city and five counties.

Attend one of the occasional concerts and exhibitions held in the church. Purchase souvenirs and religious ornaments from the gift shop. A café is located in the 13th-century dining hall formerly used by monks.

Marvel at the incredible birds of prey in the church’s courtyard falconry or wander among the pretty floral displays of the nature gardens.

Enter the church for free or pay a donation. There is a small fee for guided tours. Visitors are welcome daily from morning until late afternoon year-round.

Chester Cathedral is to the north of the River Dee in the centre of the city. Visit nearby attractions, such as the Chester Library, the Eastgate & Eastgate Clock and Chester Cross. Arrive via public bus to one of the many stops in the area.

Popular places to visit


Top Chester Cathedral Hotel Deals

The Mill Hotel & Spa

The Mill Hotel & Spa

3 out of 5
Milton Street, Chester, England
The Mill Hotel & Spa
The Chester Grosvenor

The Chester Grosvenor

5 out of 5
Eastgate Street, Chester, England
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Crowne Plaza Chester by IHG

Crowne Plaza Chester by IHG

4 out of 5
Trinity Street, Chester, England
Crowne Plaza Chester by IHG
The Queen at Chester Hotel, BW Premier Collection

The Queen at Chester Hotel, BW Premier Collection

4 out of 5
City Rd, Chester, England
The Queen at Chester Hotel, BW Premier Collection
ABode Chester

ABode Chester

4 out of 5
Grosvenor Park Road, Chester, England
ABode Chester
Moxy Chester

Moxy Chester

3.5 out of 5
70 Boughton Street, Chester, England
Moxy Chester
Leonardo Hotel Chester

Leonardo Hotel Chester

4 out of 5
Pepper House, Pepper Street, Chester, England
Leonardo Hotel Chester
Oddfellows Chester Hotel and Apartments

Oddfellows Chester Hotel and Apartments

4 out of 5
20 Lower Bridge Street, Chester, England
Oddfellows Chester Hotel and Apartments
The Boathouse & Riverside Rooms

The Boathouse & Riverside Rooms

4 out of 5
21 The Groves, Chester, England
The Boathouse & Riverside Rooms
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