Chester - Watergate Street

Watergate Street has several exceptionally fine half timbered houses, including God's Providence House (1652) - the inhabitants of which were spared the plague - and Bishop Lloyd's House (early 17th century) with beautiful carving on the front. Leche House (1579), a short distance away, also has elaborate half timbering, as does the richly decorated Stanley Palace (1591, extended ca. 1700). The Guildhall Museum (visits by appointment only) contains an interesting exhibition relating to Chester's merchant guilds.