1 Bridge Street, Chester

1 Bridge Street is a striking example of Chester’s iconic black-and-white revival architecture. Located at the bustling junction of Bridge Street and Eastgate Street at Chester Cross, the building is an integral part of the city’s historical and architectural charm. A Grade II* listed structure, it also incorporates part of the famous Chester Rows, adding to its historic significance.

Designed by Thomas Lockwood and completed in 1888 for the 1st Duke of Westminster, the building reflects Lockwood's most flamboyant style. It is considered by many, including the National Heritage List for England, to be his most admired work in Chester. By 1889, ownership had passed to Chester City Council, and today, the building serves as a hub for retail activity.

The four-story structure features an undercroft below street level, an attic, and impressive architectural detailing. A prominent octagonal turret at the corner marks the entrance, reached by a flight of seven steps leading to the Rows level. Above the steps, a canted, mullioned, and transomed oriel window draws attention, crowned by three pargetted panels and a four-light canted casement window beneath a curved roof topped with a weather vane.

The building boasts decorative panels, balustrades, and shopfronts that align seamlessly with the Rows’ unique layout. On Bridge Street, the third-story façade showcases intricate panels and a three-light window, while a gabled dormer adds to the visual complexity. Along Eastgate Street, a six-light window dominates the third story, flanked by panels that include the Grosvenor family arms. Above this, a dormer enhances the skyline, completing the building’s ornate and historic character.

Historian Simon Ward aptly described 1 Bridge Street as an “iconic” structure, a timeless representation of Chester’s architectural heritage. Its picturesque detailing and prominent location continue to make it a cherished landmark in the heart of the city.