Chester: Medieval Walking Tour with Costumed Guide & City Walls

Summary

Walk Chester’s old walls with a medieval archer and hear rebellion tales

You’ll join a costumed guide in Chester for a walk along ancient city walls, step through medieval rows, and try handling real longbow gear under supervision. Hear stories of rebellion and daily life in 1403 from someone who brings it all to life—expect some laughter, unexpected details, and moments that stick with you after you leave.

What’s the experience like?

Someone in chainmail handed me a longbow before I’d even had time to get my bearings. The string felt rough against my fingers — not what I expected, honestly. Our guide, Tom (he insisted we call him by his medieval nickname), grinned as he explained how Cheshire’s archers were once the king’s best shot. We started along the Chester city walls, boots tapping on stone that’s seen more history than I could ever cram into a photo. There was this damp smell — moss, old rain, maybe something from the river — and Tom kept pausing to point out where soldiers would’ve stood watch for rebels. He had this way of making 1403 feel like it was just last week.

I didn’t think I’d care much about medieval politics, but when Tom described Hotspur Percy rebelling against King Henry IV, his voice got low and serious. You could almost picture the tension — narrow streets, people whispering news from Wales. We walked through Chester’s rows (those odd two-level walkways), and he showed us which buildings survived all these centuries. Some of them lean in strange ways, like they’re tired but stubborn. A woman selling pastries waved at us; Tom joked that medieval bread was probably harder than her scones.

The part near St John’s cathedral surprised me most — apparently the amphitheater grounds were used for something completely different back then (I won’t spoil it). There was this moment where the group went quiet; you could just hear distant church bells and our own footsteps crunching gravel. It hit me then how much life had passed through these stones. By the end, I still couldn’t pronounce Glyndwr right — Tom laughed every time I tried — but I left feeling oddly connected to Chester’s story. Even now, sometimes I catch myself picturing those walls at dusk.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Medieval Chester walking tour

• Walk Chester city walls
• Explore Chester's unique rows
• Learn about amphitheater use

Top questions

Is this Chester medieval walking tour suitable for wheelchairs?

Yes, all areas and surfaces are wheelchair accessible throughout the tour.

Will we see inside any historic buildings on this tour?

No, the focus is on stories of rebellion and life in 1403 rather than entering buildings.

How long is the walking part along Chester city walls?

You’ll walk a section of the city walls while learning about their origins and development.

Can children join this medieval walking tour?

Yes, infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller during the tour.

Is public transportation nearby for getting to the starting point?

Yes, there are public transportation options available close to where the tour begins.

Do we get to handle any medieval equipment?

Yes, under supervision from your guide you can handle some of their equipment like longbows.

Are service animals allowed on this walking tour?

Yes, service animals are allowed throughout the experience.

What’s included

Your day includes a guided walk led by a costumed local expert around Chester’s city walls and medieval rows—with supervised chances to handle replica longbow gear along the way.