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Best Places to Visit & Things To Do in Wells, South West England, United Kingdom (UK) [Updated-2026]

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November 10, 2025

Best Places to Visit & Things To Do in Wells, South West England, United Kingdom (UK) [Updated-2026]

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Wells, Somerset: Your Ultimate Guide to England’s Smallest Cathedral City

Tucked away at the foot of the Mendip Hills in Somerset, the city of Wells holds a charming and distinguished title: it is England’s smallest city. Yet, within its compact boundaries lies a concentration of history, architecture, and beauty that rivals places many times its size. This is not a city defined by industry or sprawling suburbs, but by one of the most breathtaking cathedrals in Europe, a moated bishop’s palace straight from a fairy tale, and the oldest purely residential street in Europe.

Wells is a place where time appears to have stood still, offering a perfectly preserved glimpse into medieval England. This comprehensive guide is your key to unlocking the magic of this enchanting city, from its iconic landmarks to the stunning caves and countryside that surround it.

Part 1: First Impressions – A Medieval Masterpiece

Arriving in Wells feels like stepping through a portal into a different century. The city’s heart is the magnificent Cathedral Green, a vast, tranquil lawn flanked by historic buildings, with the immense west front of the cathedral as its stunning centrepiece. The atmosphere is one of profound peace and timeless elegance.

The soundscape is not of traffic, but of the cathedral bells marking the hours and the chatter of visitors and locals enjoying the peaceful pace. Wells’ small scale is its greatest asset; you can walk from the cathedral, past the bishop’s palace, and through the historic market square in a matter of minutes, experiencing a thousand years of history with every step.

Your First Stop: The Wells Visitor Information Centre

Begin your exploration at the excellent Wells Visitor Information Centre, located in the historic Wells Museum building on the Cathedral Green. The knowledgeable staff can provide maps, book tours, and offer insights that will deepen your appreciation for the city’s rich heritage.

Part 2: The Architectural Heart – Wells Cathedral

No visit to the city is complete without spending substantial time in and around its glorious centrepiece. Wells Cathedral, dedicated to St. Andrew, is a masterpiece of Early English Gothic architecture.

A Building of Firsts and Wonders

The cathedral we see today was largely built between 1175 and 1490. It is a building of immense innovation and beauty.

Must-See Highlights Inside and Out

The West Front: This is one of the most magnificent facades in Christendom. It is adorned with nearly 300 medieval statues of kings, queens, saints, and angels, a vast stone bible designed to inspire an illiterate population.
The Scissor Arches: The cathedral’s most famous and ingenious feature. When the central tower began to sink in the 14th century, master mason William Joy designed these unique, stabilizing arches. They are not only a brilliant feat of engineering but also a thing of breathtaking beauty.
The Chapter House: Reach this stunning octagonal room by climbing a worn, stone staircase. The soaring vaulted ceiling, supported by a central pillar, is a marvel, and the light flooding through the windows is sublime.
The Clock: Dating from around 1390, this is the second-oldest working clock mechanism in the world. Every quarter-hour, a delightful medieval jousting tournament takes place, with miniature knights on horseback charging each other.
The Jesse Window: A magnificent example of 14th-century stained glass, depicting the family tree of Jesse in vibrant colours.

Pro Tip: For a truly unique perspective, book a Tower Tour. The climb is steep, but you are rewarded with close-up views of the scissor arches, the clock mechanism, and panoramic views over the city and the Mendip Hills.

Part 3: The Bishop’s Palace & Gardens

Adjacent to the cathedral lies another of Wells’ crown jewels. The Bishop’s Palace & Gardens has been the home of the Bishops of Bath and Wells for over 800 years.

The Palace and Moat

The palace is a beautiful, fortified manor surrounded by a broad, spring-fed moat. The sight of swans gliding past the ancient walls is iconic. The swans are even trained to ring a bell by the gatehouse when they want to be fed—a tradition dating back centuries.

The Gardens

The 14 acres of gardens are a delight to explore. They include:

The Wellsprings: The natural springs that gave the city its name, which have been bubbling up here for thousands of years.
The Stained Glass Glasshouse: A Victorian greenhouse with beautiful stained-glass panels.
The Ramparts: Walk along the medieval walls for stunning views of the cathedral and the gardens.
The Quiet Garden: A peaceful, walled space perfect for contemplation.

Part 4: A Stroll Through History – Vicars’ Close & The City

Wells’ historic core is a treasure trove of medieval and Georgian architecture.

Vicars’ Close

A short walk from the cathedral, through a stone archway, brings you to Vicars’ Close. This is believed to be the oldest purely residential street in Europe, built in the 14th century to house the cathedral’s vicars choral. The perfectly preserved terrace of houses, with their uniform chimneys and cobbled street, is incredibly atmospheric. It feels untouched by time and is a photographer’s dream.

The Market Place & City Centre

Wells has held a market charter since the 12th century. The Market Place is still the bustling hub of the city, with a market every Wednesday and Saturday. Here you’ll find the Penniless Porch, a beautiful medieval gatehouse where beggars once sought alms, and the Town Hall, an elegant Georgian building.

Part 5: Wells as Your Somerset Base – Caves, Hills, and More

Wells’ location makes it the perfect base for exploring some of Somerset’s most famous attractions.

Wookey Hole Caves

Just a mile and a half from the city centre, Wookey Hole Caves are a spectacular series of limestone caverns. Explore the dramatic chambers, see the legendary Witch of Wookey Hole (a striking stalagmite), and learn about the prehistoric finds made here. The site also includes a vintage paper mill, a mirror maze, and other family-friendly attractions.

The Mendip Hills Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB)

The city sits directly below the Mendip Hills. This protected landscape offers:

Spectacular Walking: The Mendip Way long-distance path passes close to the city, offering hikes with incredible views over the Somerset Levels.
Cheddar Gorge: A short drive away, this is Britain’s largest gorge, offering dramatic cliff faces, famous caves, and a challenging climb up the iconic Jacob’s Ladder.

Glastonbury

The legendary town of Glastonbury, with its Tor, Abbey ruins, and unique spiritual shops, is just a 20-minute drive from Wells, making it easy to combine a visit to both iconic sites.

Practical Guide for the Traveller

Getting There:

By Car: Wells is easily accessible, located just off the A39 and A371. It is about a 30-minute drive from the M5 motorway.
By Public Transport: While Wells does not have a railway station, it is well-served by buses. The National Express 376 service connects it directly to Bristol and Bath. The nearest train stations are in Bath and Castle Cary.

Getting Around:

The city centre is extremely compact and best explored on foot. To visit Wookey Hole, Cheddar Gorge, and Glastonbury, a car is highly recommended for maximum flexibility, though local bus services and taxis are available.

Where to Stay & Eat:

Wells offers a range of accommodation, from historic coaching inns like The Crown at Wells to charming B&Bs and guesthouses.
For dining, you’ll find excellent options:

The Good Earth: A long-established, popular vegetarian restaurant with a great reputation.
The Fountain Inn: For a classic pub experience and real ales.
The Bishop’s Eye: Located right on the Cathedral Green, perfect for a coffee or lunch with a view.

Best Time to Visit:

Spring (April-June): The gardens at the Bishop’s Palace are at their most beautiful, and the weather is ideal for exploring.
Summer (July-August): The warmest time, with a full programme of events, including outdoor concerts and theatre performances at the Bishop’s Palace.
Autumn (September-October): For stunning autumn colours and a quieter atmosphere.
Christmas: The cathedral and city host beautiful festive markets and services.

Conclusion: The Enduring Magic of England’s Smallest City

Wells, Somerset, is a destination that proves true significance is not measured in square miles. It’s the awe inspired by the scissor arches, the fairy-tale sight of a moated palace, the quiet wonder of walking down Vicars’ Close, and the thrill of exploring ancient caves just around the corner.

It offers a perfectly preserved, deeply English experience that feels both intimate and monumental. A visit to Wells is a journey to the heart of medieval England, a chance to slow down and savour history, beauty, and tranquility in one of the most captivating small cities in the world.

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Best Places to Visit & Things To Do in Wells, South West England, United Kingdom (UK) [Updated-2026]

Wells, Somerset: Your Ultimate Guide to England’s Smallest Cathedral City

Part 1: First Impressions – A Medieval Masterpiece

Your First Stop: The Wells Visitor Information Centre

Part 2: The Architectural Heart – Wells Cathedral

A Building of Firsts and Wonders

Must-See Highlights Inside and Out

Part 3: The Bishop’s Palace & Gardens

The Palace and Moat

The Gardens

Part 4: A Stroll Through History – Vicars’ Close & The City

Vicars’ Close

The Market Place & City Centre

Part 5: Wells as Your Somerset Base – Caves, Hills, and More

Wookey Hole Caves

The Mendip Hills Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB)

Glastonbury

Practical Guide for the Traveller

Getting There:

Getting Around:

Where to Stay & Eat:

Best Time to Visit:

Conclusion: The Enduring Magic of England’s Smallest City

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