On our last day in Shrewsbury we decided to hop on the train to Chester. We’ve passed it many times and thought why not. Plus the heat here is causing lots of travel disruptions and cancellations. We don’t want to get stuck too far away.
Chester was founded in 70 AD as a Roman fort with the name Deva Victrix during the reign of Emperor Vespasian. One of the main army camps in Roman Britain, Deva later became a major civilian settlement. In 689, King Mercia founded the Minster Church of West Mercia, which later became Chester’s first cathedral, and the Angles extended and strengthened the walls to protect the city against the Danes. Chester was one of the last cities in England to fall to the Normans, and William the Conqueror ordered the construction of a castle to dominate the town and the nearby Welsh border. Chester was granted city status in 1541.
The city walls are some of the best-preserved in the country and have grade A status. Apart from a 100-metre (330 ft) section, the walls are almost complete. It has several medieval buildings. However, many of the black-and-white buildings within the city centre are Victorian restorations, originating from the revival movement.
The Industrial Revolution brought railways, canals, and new roads to the city, which saw substantial expansion and development. Tourism, the retail industry, public administration, and financial services are important to the modern economy. Chester signs itself as Chester International Heritage City on road signs on the main roads entering the city.
Today the train was crowded with all kinds of very fancy dressed elegant ladies and gents. Today is Horse Racing Day and the city was flooded with people. We walked around but felt like salmon going upstream. Every pub and restaurant was overflowing. We managed to catch the highlights, walked the medieval wall path, eat lunch and catch the train back to Shrewsbury.
Tourists
Did meet this adorable Paddington Bear having a Bap
We decided to have a final gelato at our lil corner gem.
Packing up and saying goodbye to Shrewsbury (or as the Welsh say Amwythig). We have thoroughly enjoyed this town bordering England and Wales, and most importantly exploring the north of Wales. What a lovely country & people & beauty & language. 🏴
