Grosvenor Museum
Explore the lives and death of soldiers during the Roman occupation including a superb collection of memorial stones. Find out more about Chester’s heritage and natural history. Get up close to amazing objects in our Art and Silver Galleries. There are several temporary galleries showcasing museum collections, externally curated exhibitions and contemporary artists’ work.
At the rear of the museum you will find 20 Castle Street, the Museum’s ‘hidden’ House Through Time, built around 1680 with its staircase with ‘barley sugar’ banisters. The House Through Time displays fashion and room-sets from the 17th Century to the 1920’s.
The Grosvenor Museum was built in 1885-6 to house the collections of the Chester Archaeological Society and the Chester Society of Natural Science, Literature and Art, together with schools of Science and Art. It was designed by the Chester architect Thomas Meakin Lockwood.
There is a small 1940s café, a local History Hub, a large Lecture Theatre and shop selling local art and craft gifts. Admission to the museum is free, however we welcome a suggested donation of £3 per person.
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Win! A Roman Welcome
WIN! A ROMAN WELCOMEStep back in time, feast like a champion and travel in style.Our Gladiator Giveaway includes: First Class return travel with Avanti West Coast to Chester, one of the most significant Roman cities in the UK. Enjoy an exclusive, VIP guided tour of the latest Gladiators of Britain exhibition at the Grosvenor Museum before heading out with your very own Roman tour guide to explore the city’s ancient treasures, including the iconic amphitheatre, and imposing Roman city walls. Then round off your journey with a vibrant Caribbean feast at Turtle Bay.History, heroes, and flavour — all in one unforgettable day!Competition starts at 00:00 on 30/10/2025 and closes at 00:00 on 30/11/2025. Late or incomplete entries will be disqualified. Open to residents of the UK aged 18 years and over, excluding Northern Ireland, except employees of the competition providers or Partners and any of their related groups of companies. Limit of one entry per person. Use of automated devices or methods of submission are not valid forms of entry. Full terms and conditions apply.ENTER HERE
Women of the Roman Arena
Dates: 15th Jan - 15th Jan 2026
Join ancient historian Alexandra Sills as she uncovers the forgotten story of female gladiators in Rome's most masculine arena.
Object of the Month – The Lock Gates
Dates: 11th Dec - 11th Dec 2025
This months talk will be about The Lock Gates, Chester by Charles Ginner, an oil painting on display in the Art Gallery.
Gladiators: From Facts to Fiction, Myths to Movies
Dates: 16th Dec - 16th Dec 2025
Explore gladiatorial history with expert Alexander Mariotti, historical consultant on Ridley Scott's Gladiator. Facts, myths & movie magic!
Businesses close to Grosvenor Museum
Cuppin Street Car Park
From 3.50, Total spaces: 21, Disabled spaces: 2
Moules A Go-Go
Modern, cosy franco Belgium restaurant serving mussels, steak, burgers, and much more. There are themed nights and deals.
Oddfellows Chester
Welcome to our charming and whimsical Georgian Townhouse, where history and imagination come alive. Once an Oddfellows Hall — a meeting place for misfits and dreamers — it’s now home to a fabulous bar, restaurant, a hidden gem of a Secret Garden.
Alice's Parlour
Step through the looking glass and into a world where sense takes a nap and wonder runs the show.