Wells

Wells - A Tiny City With Big Memories

Whether you’re drawn by its history, its architecture, or you just want to fill your camera with pretty pictures, Wells is a day trip to remember. From wandering its quaint streets to exploring its famous landmarks, this tiny city promises big memories.

England's Smallest City

Wells is England's smallest city and at times you could be forgiven for thinking you have arrived on a film set with its pretty streets, magnificent cathedral and the stunning Bishop's Palace and gardens. Make sure you bring your camera and look out for the swans in the moat around the palace. The swans have learned to ring a bell for food when they are hungry. 

The Bishop's Palace

The Bishop's Palace is one of the most photographed sights in Somerset. Surrounded by a moat it looks like a castle from the outside. Cross the drawbridge and it opens up into a stunning medieval palace. There are 14 acres of outstanding RHS Partner gardens to explore, including the beautiful well pools from which the city takes its name. The palace has been home to the Bishops of Bath and Wells for over 800 years. At Christmas time the gardens are illuminated.

Vicars' Close

Don't miss the stunning Vicars' Close where you will feel like you are stepping onto a film set. It is believed to be the only complete medieval street left in England. It was designed to provide communal accommodation for the Vicars Choral, who sang daily worship within the Cathedral. This centuries-old tradition continues today and is a unique and valued part of life at Wells Cathedral.

Wells Cathedral

No trip to Wells would be complete without a visit to the Cathedral, particularly over the Christmas period. Daily guided tours are available, or you can explore the beautiful building under your own steam, marvelling at its iconic West Front and the beautiful ‘scissor arches’ supporting the central tower. It also has one of the largest collections of historic stained glass in the country.

The Cathedral also boasts the famous Wells Clock (considered to be the second oldest clock mechanism in Britain), the fascinating octagonal Chapter House and one of only four chained libraries in the UK. 

Wells Market

Wells is special whenever you come but if you visit on a Wednesday or Saturday you get the added bonus of the Wells outdoor market selling a huge range of local produce and goods in the Market Place. 

Wells at Christmas

Wells Christmas Market takes place on a single Saturday in mid-December. But on its one day it makes a big impression featuring in the top-eight Which? list of favourite market cities. 

The Bishop's Palace also does a pretty good Christmas - illuminating its famous grounds to create a spectacular festive sight with the Bishop's Palace Christmas Garden Illuminations.

Getting from Weston-super-Mare to Wells

Wells is an easy day trip from Weston-super-Mare either under your own steam by car or on the 126 bus.