GET A GLIMPSE OF SECRET CHESTER THIS WEEKEND

Chester is famous for its Roman history, but did you know that there’s a secret tower in the city which dates back to the 12th century and was the first stone gateway to Chester Castle?

With stunning views across the River Dee and over to the racecourse, the Agricola Tower is a treasure chest of history. It sits on what was originally an earth and timber Motte and Bailey castle.

And it is open to the public for free this weekend thanks to English Heritage.

The tower itself contains a chapel which has been visited over the centuries by three monarchs (the last one was James II) and contains some exceptional and rare medieval wall paintings dating back to 1240 as well as secret marks made by the original stonemasons.

Around the historic site, you can walk on medieval walls, see the marks make by cannon balls from long ago and go inside the jail cells.

On Saturday and Sunday this weekend (March 4 & 5, 11am-3pm) the site is open to the public for free (donations welcome) and there will be a Civil War re-enactment.

Entry to the Castle is via the Crown Court car park in Chester (opposite ABode hotel).