Bluecoat School, Chester

Bluecoat School is an educational building in Chester constructed from brick with stone trim and sited on Upper Northgate Street. The structure displays a symmetrical U-shaped design, topped by an octagonal cupola, with a painted student figure adorning the front.

The school was founded in 1700 near Chester Cathedral and was among the first charity institutions outside London created by the Society for Promoting Christian Knowledge. The site previously held a medieval hospital dating to 1190 that cared for the sick and poor.

The building takes its name from the blue coats that students traditionally wore as their school uniform. Visitors can still see the painted student statue on the facade, which reflects this aspect of school life.

The building now operates as a charity hub housing multiple local organizations and underwent extensive renovation in 2015. Visitors should check in advance about access, as different areas may be available depending on the organizations occupying the space.

The building houses two historical bells with distinct origins and purposes. One came from a hospital ship during World War I, while the other from 1716 rings on the hour daily.