Oyez! The World Town Crier Tournament is Coming to Chester
One of the most gloriously British spectacles you'll ever witness is coming to Chester this September, and it's completely free. The World Town Crier Tournament returns to the city for the first time since 2014, bringing together 25 town criers from across 8 nations: England, the Channel Islands, Australia, Canada, Belgium, Germany, the Netherlands and the USA, to compete for the title of the world's best, all against the backdrop of one of England's most historic and beautiful cities.
Chester's town crier tradition stretches all the way back to 1554, making this more than just a competition. It's a living, breathing piece of history playing out on the very streets where Roman soldiers once marched. Chester is also the only city in the UK to have a daily town crier proclamation throughout the peak summer season, so this really is the home of the tradition.
The week-long event features three dedicated competition days, where competitors will be judged on their vocal power, clarity, showmanship and audience engagement. Expect vivid costumes, impressive lung capacity, and enough "Oyez!" to echo off the Roman walls.
Whether you're a history enthusiast, a family looking for something fun to do, or simply someone who appreciates a spectacular show, this is a September weekend worth planning around. Pair it with a wander along the Roman Walls, a browse through The Rows, or a long lunch in one of Chester's excellent restaurants, and you have a day that's hard to top.
Don't miss your chance to witness history in the making. Chester is calling.
World Town Crier Tournament – Competition Day 1
The World Town Crier Tournament gets underway at Town Hall Square, as competitors proclaim the virtues of their hometowns in the first round theme, the Hometown Cry. Four judges will assess each crier on vocal proficiency, confidence and bearing, content of cry and audience engagement. A celebrity judge will announce the day’s winner at the close of competition.
The Best-Dressed Crier, Best-Dressed Consort and Best-Dressed Couple will also be judged on the first day of competition.
World Town Crier Tournament – Competition Day 2
World Town Crier Tournament – Competition Day 3
The World Town Crier Tournament reaches its climax at Exchange Square, with the final round determining the overall Champion. Combined scores from all three rounds will decide the winner, announced at the conclusion of the day’s competition. A celebrity judge will also present the day award, with the Best Ambassador Award revealed to recognise the crier who has shown outstanding warmth and goodwill throughout the week.
