Chester Rows

Refurbishing the historic fabric of the Rows was critical to ensure the historic integratory of this unique environment is retained for future generations.

Using a team of experienced heritage professionals, works including removing bitumen or mid-20th century over-boarding, and replacing with hand-made oak stallboards in line with photographic and other historic records of each building. Painting of walls in period colours, repairs to ceilings, balustrades and bridges had a cumulative impact on the integratory of the Row.

Partnering with Roman Tours, a ‘Medieval Meet and Greet Experience’ (MMGE) which put medieval characters on and around The Rows. People have been able to talk, try on helmets, pose with weapons, and take selfies with the characters, who are knowledgeable about many aspects of medieval Chester. Around 450 sessions of the MMGE have been run with about 30,000 people having been engaged, of which a good proportion have been international visitors.

Good footfall is key to high street vitality unit occupation and job retention. With our partner Marketing Cheshire, the HSHAZ has supported both the promotion of the Rows to key target demographics, but also a range of event-based activity.

Autumn and Christmas 2022 saw 23 pop up events varying from choirs singing Christmas carols, through Christmas crafts and storytelling, to ghost tours, and a time travelling treasure hunt for families. Businesses have reacted very positively: “The choirs especially drove footfall to the tea rooms” (Warren, Rainbow Tearooms).

Architect/educator Neuza Morais worked with primary school pupils to create ‘The Missing Story’. This project explored the history of Chester's Rows, with the children creating their own narrative around these unique places; they also created 3D models of the Rows; and they wrote and illustrated a story which takes place on the Rows. Pupils illustrated blank postcards which are being sent out to primary schools across the UK helping to promote the distinctive heritage of Chester. The models and postcards were put on display at the Grosvenor Shopping Centre.