Chester to celebrate famous medieval Rows in new 'Rowvember' festival

This November, Chester Heritage Festival presents ‘Rowvember’, an exciting month-long celebration dedicated to Chester’s famous medieval Rows.

Throughout November, this unique initiative will shine a spotlight on the history, heritage, and vibrant business community that makes Chester’s Rows a treasured architectural marvel.

Led by Chester Heritage Festival, in partnership with Cheshire West and Chester Council, and spearheaded by archaeologist James Dixon, Rowvember offers an engaging programme of free events designed to help visitors explore and experience these historic elevated walkways in new and exciting ways.

Cllr Lisa Denson, Cabinet Member for a Fairer Future, with responsibility for Libraries, Arts and Culture, said:

“The Rows are not just a shopping destination – they’re a living piece of medieval history that continues to thrive in our modern city. Rowvember is our opportunity to showcase these remarkable structures and the wonderful businesses that call them home.”

Event highlights include:

Free Guided Tours: Expert-led explorations of the Rows, revealing their fascinating history and architectural significance
Self-Guided Adventures: Visitors can discover the Rows at their own pace with specially designed walking routes
Family Treasure Hunt: An exciting way for young explorers to learn about Chester’s unique heritage
Tim Foxon’s Little Red Bike: A beloved local installation returns to the city, moving to different locations throughout the month for visitors to track down
Cultural Performances: Including pop-up choirs, film screenings, and dance performances
Business Spotlight: Celebrating the diverse range of independent shops, restaurants, and businesses that make the Rows a vibrant commercial hub
Building Spotlights: Exploring the stories that hide behind the doors of these beautiful buildings.

The Rows, dating back to the 13^th century, represent the oldest shopping arcade of their kind in the world. This distinctive two-tier gallery of shops remains a central part of Chester’s identity and continues to attract visitors from around the globe.

Rowvember aims to encourage both locals and tourists to explore these historic galleries, discover new businesses, and participate in the celebration of Chester’s unique architectural heritage.