The Rows: The Independent Heart of Chester

The Rows are at the heart of Chester in every single way. These medieval two-tiered covered galleries are the centrepiece to Chester’s main thoroughfares and are bursting with remnants of just about every part of Chester’s storied past. When you wander The Rows today, you’re continuing a long legacy of trade and commerce in the city. You’ll find all sorts of unique and quirky spots throughout, with some of the best independents around calling these historic buildings home. We wanted to give you a roundup of what you can expect to find on your visit to The Rows. With everything from fine jewellery and bespoke fashion to unique gifts and even some custom cakes, you won’t want to miss The Rows on your return to Chester.

Powells Vintage Jewellery

2 Eastgate Row

Although vintage in every sense of the word (there has been a jewellers on these premises since 1859), there’s nothing dated about the unique pieces you’ll find at Powells Vintage Jewellery. Powells specialise in wonderful vintage jewellery and watches spanning the decades, from geometric Art Deco rings, 1960s funky gold bracelets to the more recent 1980s and onwards

The Scented Garden Retreat

6 Northgate Street Row

Nestled in the Rows of Northgate Street, you’ll find a haven of peace & tranquillity. The Scented Garden is part holistic retreat and part spa and beauty emporium. In the Scented Garden you will find a large retail area where you can treat yourself or a special someone to a selection of oils & gifts. What’s more, The Scented Garden pride themselves on stocking brands who are eco conscious, use only natural ingredients, don’t test on animals and are vegan friendly.

Up & Running

29-31 Bridge Street Row

OK, so you may have been exploring your local routes during lockdown and now it’s time to kit yourself out for a run. Look no further than Up & Running. Founded in 1992 by Gillian and Dennis Macfarlane, Up & Running remains a family business. As a running specialist selling men’s and women’s running shoes, junior running shoes, technical running clothing and running accessories, as well as the most popular running electronics, all the products are selected by runners for runners.

Nichols & Co

5 Bridge Street Row

Founded in 2002, Nichols & Co is an independent lifestyle boutique owned and run by married couple Ronnie and Rachael Nichols. At Nichols & Co you’ll find a whole host of unique and specialised items for all your lifestyle needs. Across the three floors you can expect avante-garde women's wear, jewellery, scarves, accessories, bath and body products, as well as vintage furniture for your home and garden.

Crichton Bespoke

26 Watergate Street Row North

Crichton Bespoke was founded as a shirt makers more than 50 years ago. Today the business enjoys a reputation for creating some of the finest bespoke suits in the UK. In the Georgian showroom you can be fitted for the perfect tailored suit – it’s all the more important to look sharp for the reopening! Tradition truly meets modernity and style at Crichton Bespoke.

Chester Model Centre

71-73 Bridge Street Row East

Chester Model Centre is a firm favourite for enthusiasts of all kinds. Founded in 2006 by Paul Boyland, Chester Model Centre provide all you could ever want in diecast vehicles, wargaming, plastic kits and much more. There’s a good reason why Chester Model Centre is a mecca for hobbyists and you’re sure to be entertained by the wide range of planes, trains and automobiles on offer!

Cake

69 Bridge Street Row

Cake specialises in, well… cake! You can find all you need with delicious, personalised occasion cakes in all shapes and sizes. Founded in 2006 by Jules, Cake now calls the historic Bridge Street Row home. Jules is truly talented and has made cakes for many famous names. So when you visit The Rows, make sure to stop by Cake and marvel at all of the fabulous creations!

Along Came Eve

29 Watergate Street Row

If you’re hearing wedding bells, make sure to visit Along Came Eve. The stylish bridal boutique is a family operated business offering a fresh alternative to the traditional bridal shopping experience and giving you the perfect environment for you to find 'the one'. This luxury boutique is set over 3 floors, housing the most sought after global Bridal collections. 

There really is a lot going on in our Rows, so make sure to shop local and independent while exploring these marvelous and unique structures!