A Perfect Weekend in Wells England
Wells England, is a great tourist destination in Somerset County. We enjoyed a visit here when we stayed for nearly a week in Somerset. Let us help you plan a perfect weekend in Wells, England.
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Introduction to Wells England
In the historic Somerset county, Wells offers medieval architecture, cobblestone streets, and a classic market square. The city is found at the southern foot of the Mendip Hills. Known as England’s smallest city, it offers a relaxing pace compared to nearby Bath and other metropolitan areas of England.
The name of the village came about from a trio of springs rising near Wells Cathedral. St. Andrew inspired the dedication of these springs.
Like much of England, Wells’ history has roots in the Roman era. In the 1100s, Bishop Jocelin came to this ancient diocese to build the palace in Wells today. This English cathedral city exhibits various buildings accompanying the cathedral grounds.
Today, Wells is a beautiful city to visit for its impressive cathedral as well as classic offerings of architecture and markets.
Let’s dive into the highlights you can explore in Wells, England.
Explore Wells Cathedral
If you see one attraction in Wells, you’ll want to put Wells Cathedral at the top of your list. This 12th-century Gothic cathedral put Wells on the map in its early days. The daily rhythm of prayer and worship continues daily at the Cathedral. Visitors can view the Cathedral on their own or with a guided tour. Tour tickets are available via www.eventbrite.co.uk.
Our first glimpse of the impressive Wells Cathedral was jaw-dropping as we viewed its immense size at the foot of a large green.
Approaching the west entrance, we had a sense of awe for the magnificence of this church. In its original state, the cathedral’s painted façade gave the impression of an enormous, colorful painting. The colors are gone today, but the church continues to impress.
Moving on, you’ll witness hundreds of carvings and magnificent scissor archways and view the oldest functioning clock in the United Kingdom. Be sure to look up to marvel at the incredible vaulted ceilings. The stained glass and gothic architecture are impressive.
The construction of the scissor arches dates to the 14th century. Previously, large cracks began to appear in the tower structure. Master mason William Joy engineered a load-bearing solution to support these scissor arches – which provide essential building support and are a delight to view.
If you’re into photography, you may want to bring a variety of lenses to capture the enormous architecture on the outside and the intricate details within the cathedral. It is an architectural lover’s delight.
Cathedral Highlights Include:
Theological College – Created in the 19th century for graduates from old universities wishing to receive clerical training in preparation for ordination into the Church of England. Bishop Law founded the Theological College.
College of Vicars Choral – A chapel flanks the living quarters on one end; a dining hall anchors the other side.
Wells Museum – includes the chancellor’s house.
The Chapter House – dating from 1286, is noteworthy for its standing among British architectural achievements.
Wells Cathedral Clocks – an ancient astronomical clock dating from the 14th century is the oldest of its kind in the United Kingdom and likely the second oldest on the European continent. You can witness the animations every 15 minutes, including jousting knights and a figure striking the bells. Such astronomical clocks provide more information than just the time of day. This clock also shows the cycle of lunar phases.
Good to know:
- Entrance to the cathedral is free, although a suggested donation is requested to maintain the church.
- Take a Guided tour any day during the week except on Sundays.
Music at Wells Cathedral for a Perfect Weekend in Wells England
During our visit, a chamber orchestra prepared for J.S. Bach’s St. Matthew Passion evening concert. We enjoyed conversing with one of two keyboardists to learn about their harpsichord and organ. If you love music, check the Wells Cathedral website to know if performances will be offered during your visit to Wells.
Music Events at Wells Cathedral
Visit the Bishop’s Palace & Gardens
The Bishop’s Eye is the iconic gate created by Thomas Beckington in 1450, through which you can pass to enter the Bishop’s Palace & Gardens. The palace is a residence for the current Bishop, though tourists may visit specific sections—highlights inside the Bishop’s Portrait Hall, the impressive Chapel, and the Great Hall.
A garden lovers delight awaits outside the palace on nearly 14 acres. The beautiful gardens include one of the spring wells that provided the name for this village. There are also herb gardens and an arboretum, which houses the “Dragon’s Lair” playground for children. Be sure to get some photos at the reflective pool.
Stroll near the breathtaking Defensive Moat outside the palace for more photos, including the Royal Mute Swans and their cygnets swimming in the water. Back in the day, the moat separated the poor citizens from the wealth and power of the Bishop.
Available for visitors here are daily Guided Tours, food at the Bishop’s Table Café, and a schedule of events that includes workshops, music, theatre, and children’s activities. Plan 2-3 hours for an immersive experience of the Bishop’s Palace and Gardens.
Vicar’s Close – Europe’s oldest residential street
Within a short walk from Wells Cathedral is Vicar’s Close. If you don’t have a map or know where to look, you might miss it, so add this to your itinerary. You’ll see beautiful houses on this historic cul-de-sac that survives from the 14th century. Built under the direction of Bishop Ralph of Wells in 1348, these residences housed the Vicar’s Choir members, who provided singing for the divine services eight times each day.
Vicar’s Close makes for great photographs with its beautiful architecture. Come early to avoid crowds or near sunset for a more romantic setting. Ladies, be aware the cobbles are not high-heel-friendly.
Wander to Wells Market Place
One way to enter Wells Market Place is through the historic Penniless Porch or Pauper’s Gate. This gate was originally built as part of the walled precinct of the Liberty of St. Andrew. The area provided safety for beggars seeking work.
Wells Market Place is bustling on Wednesdays and Saturdays. Various artisan stalls provide food, clothing, and craft items for sale. London House at the top of the Market area is a great gift stop.
You can also see the Town Hall and a medieval conduit fountain here in this area.
Visit the Wells & Mendip Museum
Just across St. Andrew Street from Wells Cathedral stands the Wells & Mendip Museum. Founded in 1893 by geologist Herbert Balch, his collection of Victorian artifacts is available for viewing.
Exhibits that span two floors include prehistoric depictions of the area, a focus on cave systems, and geology. There are displays of Wells’ history, culture, and military contributions. View medieval statues at close range. The library was a vast collection of books. The museum operates Tuesday through Saturday.
Explore St. Cuthbert’s Parish Church
The grand size of St. Cuthbert’s Parish Church is a surprise to some visitors. This Anglican church is the largest parish in the local diocese, which is unusual for rural areas. The church bears a dedication to St. Cutherbert and achieved cathedral status in the 10th century. The chapel is a Grade I listed building. Visitors can come to the church on any day of the week and explore the historic architecture and stonework that depicts the Tree of Jesse.
In modern pop culture, the church appeared in the film Hot Fuzz, filmed mainly in Wells (but as the fictional town of Sandford). In the movie, Adam Buxton’s character meets his death as a part of the church tower masonry descends upon him and kills him.
Make Time For Nature at Ebbor Gorge
Three miles north of Wells Cathedral, you’ll find Ebbor Gorge. This National Nature Reserve boasts woodland, caves, and small streams. It’s a great place to view wildlife or hike through the woodland. Marked paths direct you to a steep overlook of the gorge.
Visit Milton Lodge Gardens
The intimate gardens at Milton Lodge were conceived in the early 20th Century by Mr. Charles Tudway. A series of architectural terraces enhance the views of Wells Cathedral and the Vale of Avalon. Four key terrace gardens are here: the Combe and a Lily Pond.
On nearly 4 acres, you can relax and enjoy the flowers and trees. You can also enjoy tea and cakes in these peaceful surroundings.
Mendip Hospital Cemetery
The Mendip Hospital Cemetery is among the few surviving asylum cemeteries in the UK. Nearly 3,000 souls lie at rest on these burial grounds, many in unmarked graves. The tranquil cemetery is preserved while the Mendip Hospital shuttered its doors in 1991. Visitors can stroll in the nature reserve, visit the chapel, and learn about the asylum hospital’s history.
Take a Self-Guided Walking Tour of Wells
Explore the heart of Wells, a stunning Somerset city, with a quirky, self-guided walk. Uncover well-known and lesser-known places while immersing yourself in compelling stories about the city’s history. Follow detailed directions, solve addictive clues, and match pictures to places along the way. Discover hidden treasures as you learn about the people and events that shaped Wells. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or familiar with the city, this tour offers a unique perspective. Download the walks to your mobile device and explore at your own pace. Both walks are 1.5 miles and 1 mile, respectively, suitable for wheelchair and buggy users.
Click for Wells: Quirky self-guided smartphone heritage walks
Best Places to Eat in Wells
Fosso Lounge – using the best fresh produce in really creative dishes, Fosso Lounge emphasizes that menus are about pleasure, indulgence, and fun!
Address: 41 High Street, Wells, BA5 2AE
The Courtyard Restaurant – A family-run business seeking to provide locally sourced food with an 85% gluten-free menu and focus on incorporating dairy-free products.
Address: 9 Heritage Courtyard Sadler Street Sadler Street, Wells
The Fountain Inn Gastro Pub – A restaurant/bar featuring freshly prepared dishes with interesting flavor combinations. Locally sourced ingredients are incorporated into meals. The restaurant has a warm, inviting atmosphere with a quirky, eclectic interior, which adds to the overall dining experience.
Address: 1 St. Thomas Street, Wells BA5 2UU
The Globe Inn – A traditional 300+ year old family-run pub. Known for its craft ales, homemade food, and cozy atmosphere, All ingredients are locally sourced from George’s Garden and RD Johns. Ales are from local businesses like Cheddar Ales. The Globe Inn is well known for its home-cooked traditional Sunday roast.
Address: 18 Priest Row, Wells BA5 2PY
Best Places to Stay Near Wells
We only recommend lodgings where we have personally stayed or that meet specific criteria for exceptional accommodations. Our criteria include finding places in the top 5% of experience ratings.
The Cross at Croscombe – A 4-star bed & breakfast with a garden and bar in a 15th-century building. The Cross at Croscombe bridges the gap between a small, intimate hotel and a traditional B&B.
Mendip Inn – a 3.5-star inn with bar and restaurant, just over 4 miles from Wells city center. Offers individually designed luxurious and elegant guest bedrooms. All rooms are double en-suite, with tasteful, stylish décor and crisp, white linen. Located centrally to the walks and tourist areas of Somerset.
Chestnuts Bed & Breakfast – Found in a quiet, secluded location within a 10-minute walk from Glastonbury High Street. All rooms have been refurbished to a high standard, including TV, WiFi, hairdryer, and tea/coffee-making facilities in each room. Kitchen fridge/freezer available for guests to store food and beverages. Generous Continental Breakfast is served in the garden conservatory. Private parking on-site.
The Swan Hotel – The Swan Hotel in Wells, England, is set in a historic building that has a history dating back to 1422. It offers guests modern amenities in a beautiful and relaxed setting. With 49 bedrooms, a luxurious suite, and five self-contained apartments, visitors have various options. For a unique experience, guests can stay in the award-winning Cathedral Suite with a free-standing brass bath. Swan Mews, the self-contained apartments, provide a peaceful retreat and are ideal for small families or travelers on business.
The hotel is conveniently located in the heart of Wells, surrounded by shops and restaurants. In the summer, guests can enjoy al fresco dining on Swan Terrace, which offers a magnificent view of the West Front of Wells Cathedral. The hotel’s kitchen prides itself on using only the finest seasonal ingredients, focusing on locally sourced products.
Search for more for lodging options below
Is Wells Really the Smallest City in England?
Wells has enjoyed city status since the medieval era. You’ll often hear of Wells described as England’s smallest city. However, it is actually the second smallest city when measured by area and population. The first smallest city is the City of London, although the City of London is part of a larger urban agglomeration, whereas Wells is not.
Film History in Wells
If you enjoy linking places you visit to films and shows, you’ll find a few places in Wells that have been used as backdrops for historical features.
- Film credits shot in Wells include:
- The Canterbury Tales by Pier Paolo Pasolini
- The Huntsman: A Winter’s Tale and The Libertine, starring Johnny Depp
- Bonekickers
- Pillars or Earth
- Jack the Giant Killer
- BBC Period Dramas: Wolf Hall, Doctor Who, Hollow Crown
When is the Perfect Time to Visit Wells England?
Summer months can be crowded with tourists. For a more leisurely experience, plan a visit in Spring or Fall if your schedule allows. You’ll also benefit from cooler weather.
During the week, it may be best to avoid Sunday. On the Lord’s Day, accessing the cathedral will be more challenging due to its worship services schedule. A few restaurants and storefronts are also closed on Sundays.
The City of Wells hosts several festivals throughout the year:
May: The Comedy Festival features the most exciting names in the pubs and concert halls of the city.
June: The English Country Garden Festival takes place in the gardens of the Bishop’s Palace in June.
July: The Wells Theatre Festival occurs at various venues across the city, from the Recreation Ground bandstand to Wells Cathedral School’s Cedar Hall.
October: The City of Wells hosts two extraordinary weeks of festivals, attracting thousands of visitors to the city – as well as hundreds of residents, many of whom get involved as participants:
– The Festival of Literature was established in 1992 and offers a full program of speaker events.
– Wells Food Festival celebrates Somerset’s finest artisan food and drink with stalls, tastings, demonstrations, and family activities.
The year ends with the unique Somerset spectacle of Wells Carnival threading through the city streets.
Things to do Nearby Wells
Take a hike to Glastonbury Tor and visit the famous Glastonbury Abbey.
Glastonbury Tor is iconic in Somerset, with a history, legends, and myths propelling its status. Some swear King Arthur found the Holy Grail at this site.
Read about things to do in Glastonbury on our post here
Books to plan your perfect visit to Wells England and Somerset
Plan a perfect weekend in Wells, England, with help from these books:
Where is Wells England?
England’s smallest city (or second smallest) is in Somerset County in the South West of England. It’s close to Glastonbury (6 miles). The nearest major cities are Bath (20 miles) and Bristol (22 miles).
How to Visit Wells England
Car: You can get to Wells via the M5 using Road A39 or via the M4 using Road A37
Parking: You’ll find many car parks in Wells. Access to the Wells Cathedral and historic areas is a short walk from many pay-and-display car parks.
Tour: Various private tours can take tourists from Bath on a day trip to Wells
Bus: Several bus services provide access to Wells. Connections can be made in Bristol, Bath, Glastonbury, Weston-Super-Mare, and Shepton Mallet. Plan your bus journey here.
Train: There are no direct train services into Wells
Frequently Asked Questions – FAQ
Wells is a small city located in the county of Somerset, England. It is in the south-west region of England and is known for its beautiful cathedral and historic architecture. The city also holds the title of being England’s smallest city by population.
Wells, England, is located approximately 120 miles (193 km) southwest of London. It takes about 2 hours and 30 minutes to drive from Wells to London via the M4 highway. Alternatively, you can take a train from Wells to London, which takes around 3-4 hours, depending on the route and stops. Overall, it’s a relatively easy trip and well worth the journey.
In short, yes! Wells, England, is worth a visit. With its picturesque streets, historical charm, and stunning cathedral, this quaint town has plenty to see and do. Plus, it’s conveniently located close to popular destinations like Bath and Bristol. Whether you’re looking for a day trip or a more extended stay, Wells will capture your heart and leave you wanting more.
Wells is famous for its stunning cathedral and being the smallest city in England. The cathedral, built in the 12th century, is a magnificent example of Gothic architecture and features some of the oldest surviving medieval stained-glass windows. Wells is also known for its picturesque streets, charming market square, and traditional English pubs. It has been featured in many films and TV shows, including the popular series “Hot Fuzz.” Additionally, Wells hosts an annual music festival and is home to many cultural events throughout the year. Overall, Wells is a charming and historic town with something for everyone to enjoy.
More Things To Do in Somerset
Read more of our Somerset posts for more ideas to help you plan your future travel adventures and a perfect weekend in Wells, England:
The Best Places to Visit in Bath
Step Back in Time at Dunster Castle
Visit Somerset County
Visiting Dunster Beach
Glastonbury Travel Excursion
Listen to Our Podcast Episode Featuring Wells England
Your Perfect Weekend in Wells England
We hope this post helps you plan a great weekend in Wells, England. Visiting the smallest city in England should be part of any tourist adventure in Somerset.
We hope to see you at the places where we go.
Julie & Art
#wells #somerset
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