Free Entry
Open any reasonable time during daylight hours
Address:
Little St John Street, Chester, Cheshire, CH1 1RE
The Roman amphitheatre at Chester was the largest in Britain. Used for entertainment and military training, there have been two stone-built amphitheatres on the site.
The first included access to the upper tiers of seats via stairs on the rear wall, as at Pompeii, and had a small shrine next to its north entrance. The second provided seat access via vaulted stairways. The two buildings differed from each other and from all other British amphitheatres, underlining the importance of Roman Chester.
Managed by Chester City Council.
Read more about the history of Chester Roman Ampitheatre.
Before You Go
Access: A level pavement and footpath surround the excavated areas of the ampitheatre (arround two-fifths is visible), which have a clear view down to the site. The central theatre area is only accessible via several steps.
Opening times: Open daily all year round during day light hours.
Parking: There are several paid car parks in the city centre a short walk from the Amphitheatre.
Facilities: There are shops, food outlets and toilets nearby in the city centre.
Groups and Schools: Schools and groups should contact the Grosvenor Museum to arrange a visit. Call 01244 972197.
Please be aware: English Heritage does not permit drone flying from or over sites in our care, except by contractors or partners undertaking flights for a specific purpose, who satisfy stringent CAA criteria, have the correct insurances and permissions, and are operating under controlled conditions.
Plan a Great Day Out
There are many shops, food outlets and facilities nearby in the city centre, and the grounds of the amphitheatre are a great spot for a picnic.
Chester has a wealth of historic sites all within easy walking distance and contained within the famous city walls. Don't miss Chester Castle which you can visit as part of a walking tour run by Chester Tours. Next to the amphitheatre are the Roman Gardens, which can be seen from above on Chester Tours' Chester Walls Walk.
Discover more about Chester's rich history at the Grosvenor Museum.
A short half hour drive from the city is Beeston Castle which boasts 4,000 years of history, spectacular views, delightful woodland walks and a small café. It is well worth a detour.
