Chester Castle: Agricola Tower and Castle Walls

Description

Chester Castle was founded by William the Conqueror in 1070 and became the administrative centre of the earldom of Chester. The first earth and timber ‘motte-and-bailey’ castle probably only occupied the area of the inner bailey. In the 12th century it was rebuilt in stone and the outer bailey added. 

Chester Castle Agricola Tower and Castle Walls, The 12th-century Agricola Tower was the first stone gateway to Chester Castle, which had been founded by William the Conqueror in 1070 in the south-west part of the city. On the first floor is the chapel of St Mary de Castro, which contains some exceptionally fine wall paintings from about 1240. By climbing the nearby stairs to the wall-walk, you can appreciate the castle's position within the city.

Free Entry. If you are looking for Best place for day out with kids and families then this is the perfect destination offering fun, adventure, and unforgettable memories for everyone.

Features

  • Paid
  • Host birthday parties: No

Features

  • Chester Castle was founded by William the Conqueror in 1070 and became the administrative centre of the earldom of Chester. The first earth and timber ‘motte-and-bailey’ castle probably only occupied the area of the inner bailey. In the 12th century it was rebuilt in stone and the outer bailey added.
  • In 1237 the last earl died and the castle, with the earldom, was taken over by the king. In 1265, during the Barons’ War, it was held for ten weeks by supporters of Simon de Montfort against the men of Prince Edward, son of Henry III.
  • During the reigns of Henry III and Edward I the castle served as the military headquarters for the conquest of Wales and much building was carried out, especially in the outer bailey. In the later medieval period the monarch rarely stayed at the castle, but it continued to serve as the centre for county administration.
  • During the Civil War (1642–6) it was the headquarters of the Royalist governor, John, Lord Byron. Subsequently a permanent garrison was stationed there, and between 1788 and 1813 the outer bailey was completely rebuilt in the neoclassical style. The buildings still serve as the county hall, courts and regimental museum, but the military finally withdrew in 1999.

Facilities

Parking: There are plenty of public car parks in the city centre, all within walking distance from the site. Charges apply.

Open weekends: 11am-3pm April to October.

Address: Grosvenor Roundabout, Chester CH1 2DN, UK

Post Code: CH1 2DN

Council: Cheshire West and Ch

County: Cheshire

  • Road Access: Access via Assizes Court car park on Grosvenor St.
  • Bus Access: Arriva 1, 3, 3A, 4, 4A, X11, 12, 13, X44, X55; GHA services X1 & 11A pass close to the site.
  • Train Access: Chester 1 mile.
  • Bicycle Access: Find this site on The National Cycle Network.
  • Parking: There are plenty of public car parks in the city centre, all within walking distance from the site. Charges apply.

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