Features Viewed from the Park - Viewpoint Two

 

 

4. Old Dee Bridge

This 14^th century sandstone bridge replaced earlier timber bridges and stands near the site of the original Roman bridge. Until 1832, when the Grosvenor Bridge was opened, it was the lowest bridging point on the Dee providing the crossing to North Wales. There was once a gatehouse with a drawbridge at the Handbridge end of the bridge instead of the present (seventh) stone arch.

 

5. Weir

The weir can be seen through the arches of the bridge. It was built by the Normans to direct water to a waterwheel that powered a corn mill on the city side of the river. Also, fish congregated below the weir making conditions ideal for fishing. In the early 20^th century a series of broad steps were built to help migrating salmon pass it at low water. Also on the Millennium Trail

 

 

6. Hydro-electric Power Station

Built in 1913, it is thought to have been the first hydro-electric station supplying an English city. It used the head of water created by the weir to generate electricity as it passed through turbines. Previously this was the site of the water-powered Dee Mills (corn) which were demolished in 1910. Since 1951 the building has been used as a water supply pumping station.

 

 

7. King's Pool

The area below the weir and around the Old Dee Bridge is known as the King's Pool. Before the earldom of Chester passed to the Crown in 1237 it was called the Earl's Pool. It was here that an important fishery developed since fish could only pass over the weir at high tide. After the Norman Conquest all fishing had been under the control of the Earl of Chester.

 

 

 

8. St John's Church

Beyond the Old Dee Bridge is the Church of St John the Baptist on high ground above the river. It was to this important Saxon Minster that King Edgar was rowed up the Dee in 973. Its interior is largely Norman but its present exterior is mostly Victorian. It once had a tall west tower but this fell down in 1881 and the stone used to embank part of The Groves. Also on the Millennium Trail

 

 

9. Bridgegate

This cream-grey sandstone classical arch dates from 1781. It replaced the former medieval gothic Bridgegate (with a 17^th century water supply tower). This gateway leads to the bridge hence its name Bridgegate. It has, however, also been known as the South Gate, reflecting its position in the city walls, or Welsh Gate since it provided access (via the bridge) to North Wales.