Wells

Wells is a popular tourist destination due to the fact it is located very near the major tourist destinations of Bath, Stonehenge, the Wookey Hole cave system, the Somerset Levels and other popular sites. Add to the fact that Wells is located in some of the prettiest countryside in England, and it makes sense why so many people want to visit.

Due to the fact that Wells is more like a town than a city, having only 10,000 residents, the people are warm and friendly. You'll find many places selling the wonderful Somerset Cheese which is made locally. Add a bottle of wine and some bread and you have a fine picnic lunch with which you can sit and enjoy incredible views of the countryside. There are also interesting shops and fine restaurants to add to your visit. You may also wish to rent a bicycle and visit the nearby Somerset Levels which has many bicycle routes and footpaths to enjoy. It is a picturesque city best taken in with a relaxed attitude. Bring your camera and your walking shoes and be ready to wind down.

Without question, the jewel of the city is the 12th centuary Wells Cathedral with the Bishop's Palace and Vicar's Close. The oldest part of Wells Cathedral dates back to the 8th century. The West Front of the Cathedral features the finest collection of statuary in Europe, with 356 figures carved out of the Doulting stone of which the Cathedral is made. Also of note is the scissored arch, which was put in the Nave in 1338 to prevent the Cathedral's central tower from collapse. This is unique to this Cathedral, and is found nowhere else in the world.

The Bishops Palace is the medieval Palace and home of the Bishops of the Diocese of Bath and Wells for 800 years. The hall and chapel are particularly noteworthy, dating from the 14th century. There are 14 acres of gardens including the springs from which the city takes its name. The wells are the corner stone of the development of this area from prehistoric times. These natural springs can be found in the garden of the Bishop's Palace, including the holy well of St. Andrew, which is just to the east of the Camery Garden on the south side of the present cathedral. Visitors can also see the Bishop's private Chapel, ruined Great Hall and the Gatehouse with portcullis and drawbridge beside which the famous mute swans ring a bell for food.

Wells Cathedral, the Bishop's Palace and the Vicar's Close is open to visitors every day of the year. A donation of £5.00 is requested per adult if you can afford it.

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See a Map of Wells