The city’s retail core is found along the four streets emanating out from The Cross. These are Northgate Street, Eastgate Street, Bridge Street and Watergate Street.

The prime retailing is focussed along Eastgate Street, The Grosvenor Centre and Foregate Street. Eastgate Street is situated within the city’s Roman walls and is partially pedestrianised. It forms part of the historic ‘Rows’ shopping complex and is characterised by smaller traditional units providing a unique shopping experience encouraging an extended dwell time from both shoppers and tourist visitors alike. Retailers represented include Next, Russell & Bromley, Flannels, Waterstones, Jo Malone, Hobbs and Fat Face. Foregate Street is an extension of Eastgate Street and is situated outside of the Roman walls and is characterised by more modern, larger format stores typified by the presence of Marks and Spencer, Primark, Boots, Wilko, River Island, JD Sports and WH Smith. As well as a strong representation of multiple retailers, Chester is home to a large selection of upmarket and independent retailers who complement the attractive architecture which the city has to offer.

There are two covered schemes within the city centre although neither compete with the vibrant ‘High Street’ retail. The primary scheme is the Grosvenor Shopping Centre anchored by H&M,TK Maxx and Sports Direct accessed off both Bridge Street and Eastgate Street. The secondary scheme, The Forum Centre, is located off the west side of Northgate Street and is anchored by B&M and Chester’s indoor market, and is the subject of substantial redevelopment proposals known as ‘Chester Northgate’.