Northgate

Northgate is a sandstone gate in Chester featuring a curved arch that spans the street below. The structure has rectangular pedestrian passages on both sides and is supported by classical half-columns at its corners, showing careful architectural design.

Built in 1810 by architect Thomas Harrison, this gate replaced a medieval structure that had stood at the same location. The earlier gateway had served as the northern entrance to the Roman settlement and then to the developing city for many centuries.

The gate forms part of Chester's city walls and shows how the city adapted its defenses over time through different architectural approaches. Walking past it today, you notice how it blends into the urban landscape while still marking an important threshold in the city's layout.

You can reach the gate by walking along Chester's city walls, which are accessible and well-maintained throughout the route. The structure provides passage across Northgate Street, so you can walk through it or along the walls on either side.

The gate was built using large sandstone blocks, with Harrison employing a method to achieve maximum stability using the fewest pieces possible. This engineering approach is rarely discussed but reveals the skill required to construct such structures in the early 19th century.

Location: Cheshire West and Chester

Architects: Thomas Harrison

Official opening: 1810

Made from material: sandstone

Part of: Chester city walls

GPS coordinates: 53.19382,-2.89337

Latest update: December 12, 2025 14:22