Bishop Lloyd's Palace - Open
Sat 13 Sept
|51/53 Watergate Street Row South
Visit this late Tudor town house with Arts and Crafts modifications, now home of Chester Civic Trust.


Time and Location
13 Sept 2025, 10:00 – 16:00
51/53 Watergate Street Row South, Watergate St, Chester CH1 2LE, UK
About the Event
Visit this late Tudor town house with Arts and Crafts modifications, now home of Chester Civic Trust.
The origin of what we now know as Bishop Lloyd’s Palace is two late Tudor timber framed houses. In the Jacobean period, upper chambers were created in both with ornate plaster ceilings. Externally, remarkable carvings were used to embellish one of the buildings and emphasise its importance.
The Chester Victorian architects, Lockwood and Sons, united both houses internally. Externally, they added the flamboyant windows across both buildings.
The earliest known use of the decorated building was as a multi-purpose meeting space, particularly for the Chester Merchant Adventurers. Over the years, the houses and their burgage plots have had multiple uses from residential to bars. Charles Brown bought both and gave them their present appearance. His heirs donated them to the city.
There will be leaflets to help you understand the building, and Chester Civic Trust members will be present to answer your questions.
At the end of your visit, you will be offered light refreshments for which a small cash donation will be appreciated.
FAQs
Where will I find Bishop Lloyd’s Building?
The front door is at Row level, next to Rainforest, and signed Chester Civic Trust.
Is the venue accessible?
No, the part of this historic building occupied by Chester Civic Trust is only accessible by stairs.
Is this event suitable for children?
The event is intended for adults, but children interested in the topic are welcome if accompanied.
Is this event dog friendly?
Unfortunately, we are not able to welcome dogs on this event.