Monument record 8155 - Early Roman building at 30 Bridge Street

A number of archaeological finds and feature have been recorded on the site of No 30 Bridge Street since the 19th century. The site, formerly the premises of an inn, variously called the Grotto Inn (4) and the Harp & Crown Inn (1) saw the demolition of the building in 1899 followed by further work in 1906 and more recently in 1988. At least three phases of Roman occupation were identified with an early timber phase construction, later replaced in stone during the second century (CHER 8155) followed by an early third century stone building that appears to have been destroyed by fire (CHER 8553).

There is very little detail on the Roman structures given the limited publication at the time. Traces of an early timber structure were recorded at Bridge Street with evidence to suggest the first century building was replaced in the early second century with more substantial stone foundations. The stone building appears to have remained in use until the early third century. (5)

<1> Taylor H., 1901, Recorded remains from Chester, p96 (Article in Journal). SCH6518.

<2> Harris, B.E. (ed), 1987, Victoria County History - A History of the County of Chester: Volume I, p160 (Book). SCH3556.

<3> Anon, 1907, Miscellanea, p139 (Article in Journal). SCH5552.

<4> Lawson, P H, 1926, Schedule of the Roman Remains of Chester with Maps and Plans, No 36 (Article in Journal). SCH5956.

<5> Grosvenor Museum, 1988, Grosvenor Museum Excavation section: Current Activities & Upcoming Sites (Unpublished Report). SCH6282.

<6> Newstead, R (Prof.), 1899, Discovery of Roman remains in Bridge Street, 1899 (Article in Journal). SCH5529.