Watergate, Chester

Watergate is an arch bridge built with red sandstone that spans the A548 road in Chester's city center. Its structure features a basket arch with textured stonework and a parapet with stone railings on both sides.

The current structure was built between 1788 and 1790 by architect Joseph Turner, replacing a medieval gate that was damaged during the siege of Chester. Its construction marked a shift from defensive fortification to a functional crossing point.

This bridge is woven into Chester's city walls, showing how the town has kept its medieval defensive network alive and in use. Walking across it, you experience a connection that locals have relied on for centuries.

The footpath across the bridge connects Watergate Street to New Crane Street and links directly to Chester's city walls walk. The crossing is straightforward to navigate and clearly marked, making it easy to access this section of the historic circuit.

A Victorian drinking fountain from 1857 is fixed to the north abutment of the bridge, added decades after the structure was completed. This addition shows how the bridge adapted to serve new needs as the city changed.

Location: Cheshire West and Chester

Architects: Joseph Turner

Official opening: 1790

Made from material: stone

Part of: Chester city walls

GPS coordinates: 53.18940,-2.89740

Latest update: December 14, 2025 09:41