The clock was designed by Chester architect John Douglas, who was commissioned to celebrate the 60th anniversary of Queen Victoria's reign.
The Eastgate arch upon which the clock sits was completed in 1768, replacing a much older medieval structure.
The original gate at this location served as the main entrance to the Roman fortress of Deva Victrix, established around 70 AD.
The ironwork of the clock is highly decorative, featuring 'VR' (Victoria Regina) monograms in the corners.
The clock was unveiled to the public in 1899, two years after the Jubilee it commemorates.
It is a Grade I listed structure, the highest level of protection for historical buildings in the UK.
The Eastgate Clock is an ornate, cast-iron timepiece situated directly above the main entrance to Roman-founded Chester. It sits atop the Eastgate, a historic sandstone arch that serves as the entry point to the city's ancient defensive walls. Constructed in 1897 to commemorate Queen Victoria’s Diamond Jubilee, the clock features a distinctive design with intricate Victorian ironwork. It is widely recognized as the second most photographed clock in the United Kingdom, trailing only Big Ben. The structure incorporates a decorative turret and four clock faces, one on each side, allowing for visibility from both the city streets below and the elevated walkway of the historic city walls. The gate itself rests on the site of the original Roman legionary fortress entrance, known as the Porta Principalis Dextra. Visitors can walk directly underneath the archway or pass through the clock level via the continuous walkway encircling the city center.
On the city wall walkway looking toward the clock face for a direct, eye-level shot.
Walk the full length of the city walls to view the clock from multiple elevations and angles.
Visit during twilight when the clock is illuminated, providing a distinct perspective compared to daylight hours.
Combine your visit with a walk along the Rows, Chester’s unique 13th-century tiered shopping galleries located nearby.
Attempting to climb the external structure; stay on the designated public footpaths of the city walls.
