West Chester

West Chester is the administrative seat of Chester County in Pennsylvania and sits about 25 miles (40 kilometers) west of Philadelphia. The town spreads across both sides of High Street, where the courthouse and several commercial blocks stand.

The town emerged in the 18th century around an inn and became the administrative seat at the end of that century. The courthouse was completed in 1846 and still stands at the center of town today.

The town takes its name from an English city and shows this heritage in many of its street names. Visitors immediately notice the brick buildings in the center, where shops and offices line up side by side.

The downtown area is easy to explore on foot, with most points of interest within walking distance. Parking is available along side streets and in several public lots around the center.

A 19th-century bell tower stands on the courthouse and still chimes on the hour. The bell itself was cast in a Philadelphia foundry and installed in 1847.

Location: Chester County

Inception: March 28, 1799

Elevation above the sea: 136 m

Shares border with: West Goshen Township

Website: https://west-chester.com

GPS coordinates: 39.95860,-75.60500

Latest update: December 12, 2025 23:31