Phoenix Tower, Chester

Phoenix Tower is a four-stage fortification on Chester's medieval city walls, built from red sandstone with a pyramidal slate roof and narrow slit windows in its octagonal lower chamber. The tower's design reflects its dual purpose as both a defensive position and a structural part of the wider wall system.

The tower was built in the 13th century as part of Chester's defensive system. During the 1645 English Civil War siege of the city, it served as an armed position with guns positioned on multiple levels to defend against attack.

Two craft guilds, the Painters and Stationers and the Barbers and Chandlers, leased this tower in the 16th century and commissioned a phoenix carving to mark their connection to the building. This ornament shows how merchant groups of that era personalized their leased spaces.

The tower is best explored by walking along the city wall pathway, which offers flat, easy walking routes for most visitors. Weather conditions matter for enjoying the surrounding views and exploring the wall sections on foot.

A surviving plaque marks the spot where King Charles I watched his army suffer defeat at Rowton Heath from this tower in September 1645. This detail links the tower to a turning point in the siege and reminds visitors of the monarch's presence during the conflict.