Chester Cross

Scottish Country Dance Instruction

1- 8 1s and 4s Petronella turn and set to partner; ½ turn partner 2H and Petronella turn to own side. 1234
9-12 2s and 3s Petronella turn and set to partner
13-20 2s+3s dance ½ Celtic Reel:
 13-14 2s+3s pass partner RSh
 15-16 2M and 3L dance clockwise round while 2L+3M dance ¾ LSh round each other
 17-18 2s and 3s pass partner RSh
 19-20 2L and 3M dance clockwise round while 2M+3L dance ¾ LSh round each other to face partner in line up/down
21-24 3s and 2s set, Petronella turn to own side. 1324
25-32 1s+3s also 2s+4s set and link; 3s+1s also 4s+2s circle 4H round to left. 3142

(MINICRIB. Dance crib compiled by Charles Upton, Deeside Caledonian Society, and his successors)

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It marks the intersection of four principal streets: Watergate Street, Eastgate Street, Bridge Street, and Northgate Street. The layout forms a staggered crossroads, with Watergate Street aligning directly with Eastgate Street, while Bridge Street converges just west of Northgate Street. These thoroughfares trace back to the city's origins as a Roman fortress, with the Roman principia, or headquarters, situated north of the junction. Northgate Street was introduced in the 10th century, cutting through the remnants of Roman structures.

At the centre of Chester Cross stands the Chester High Cross, a Grade II listed monument. Originally dating from the 14th century, it was replaced in 1476 with an octagonal pillar topped by a carved head and crucifix. The cross was gilded in 1603 but suffered damage during the Civil War in 1646. Fragments, including the head, were preserved and later rediscovered in the 19th century. A restoration incorporating these elements was erected near the Newgate in 1949, and in 1975, the cross was relocated to its current position, close to its original site.

Adjacent to the cross is St Peter's Church, a Grade I listed building situated immediately to the north. On the southeast corner of the junction stands 1 Bridge Street, a Grade II listed building designed by architect Thomas Lockwood in 1888. This structure exemplifies the black-and-white revival architectural style and incorporates elements of the Chester Rows.

Today, Chester Cross serves as a popular meeting point within the city. During the summer months, the town crier delivers a midday proclamation from the steps of the High Cross, continuing a tradition that dates back to medieval times.

Chester High Cross, In Front Of St Peter's Church, At The Junction Of Watergate Street, Eastgate Street And Bridge Street, A Site Known As Chester Cross

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