Bonewaldesthorne's Tower, Chester

Bonewaldesthorne's Tower, a Grade I listed medieval structure, is a prominent feature of Chester's historic city walls, located at their northwest corner. Dating back to 1249, it played a key role in Chester's defensive system and is connected to the Water Tower via a spur wall. The tower underwent significant rebuilding or alterations between 1322 and 1326, serving as the gatehouse to the Water Tower.

In the 19th century, Bonewaldesthorne's Tower transitioned from a military role to a cultural one. The Chester Mechanics' Institution, established in 1835, leased the tower and its neighbor for use as a museum. This museum, which opened in 1838, showcased various artifacts and innovations. Key additions during this period included a camera obscura (1840), an observatory (1848), and a salvaged Queen Anne statue from the fire-destroyed Exchange.

The Chester Mechanics' Institution disbanded in 1876, but the exhibits stayed under city council care, and the tower operated as a museum until 1901–02 when it closed for city wall restoration. Reopened in 1903, it saw 12,000 visitors in one season but gradually became less accessible, with closures starting in 1916. The Grosvenor Museum acquired it in 1954, reopening in 1962. Since 2016, Bonewaldesthorne's Tower and the Water Tower have hosted the 'Sick to Death' museum, showcasing the history of medicine.

The tower's rectangular structure is built in coursed red sandstone rubble, standing on a tall plinth. Visitors access it via seven steps leading to an arched doorway from the city walls, with another doorway opening onto the spur wall to the Water Tower. The top of the tower is battlemented, enhancing its defensive appearance. Inside, features include a fireplace and a closed staircase lit by a single slit window, underscoring its medieval design.

Bonewaldesthorne's Tower remains a testament to Chester's rich history, blending medieval defense with cultural heritage and modern engagement.