Wells: Cathedral, History and Walks

Wells combines impressive architectural history with short walks, regional markets and excursions into the Mendip Hills countryside. Anyone planning a trip to Wells can choose between cultural discoveries in the city, the Heritage Walk offered on Wednesdays, self-guided walks and seasonal events. This combination makes Wells an interesting destination for travellers who want to vary their activities from day to day.

Cathedral, Episcopal Residence and Medieval Architecture

Wells Cathedral was built between 1175 and 1490. Particularly noteworthy are the scissor arches, which were added in 1338 after the weight of a new tower spire threatened to cause the tower to collapse. The cathedral is also home to the Wells Clock, which is considered the second-oldest clock mechanism in Great Britain.

Bishop’s Palace and Gardens is home to a place with a long history: the palace was the seat of the Bishops of Bath and Wells for 800 years. The associated gardens cover 14 acres and are affiliated with an RHS partner. Guided tours of the Bishop’s Palace grounds are included in the admission price. Another exceptional testament to the city’s history is Vicars’ Close. The street is considered the only fully preserved medieval street in England; all its buildings are listed as Grade I buildings.

The Wells & Mendip Museum also has its own particular focus. It displays geological and archaeological exhibits as well as objects relating to social history. The Balch Room contains archaeological finds from the Wookey Hole Caves, including child burials, Stone Age tools and the bones of the Witch of Wookey Hole.

Walks for Different Daily Itineraries

Wells can be explored in several ways. Wells Walking Tours offers four self-guided walks around Wells. The routes are 1.8 to 4 miles long and take approximately 45 minutes to 2.5 hours. A 3-mile circular route in the shape of a figure eight leads through Wells’ cathedral precinct and High Street, continuing to the almshouses and St Cuthbert’s Church. This allows you to combine historical impressions and exercise at your own pace.

In addition, a Heritage Walk is offered in Wells at 11 a.m. on Wednesdays from Easter to mid-October and lasts approximately 1.5 hours. The 2-mile stretch from Wells to Dulcote leads through ancient woodland and offers hillside views of Wells Cathedral. Those who want to include more countryside in their plans will find walking, cycling and riding trails in the Mendip Hills, along with impressive views. The Mendip Hills are designated as an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty and extend from east of Wells almost to the Bristol Channel.

Markets, Food and Seasonal Experiences

Wells Market hosts a twice-weekly market on Wednesdays and Saturdays, featuring regional produce and goods. The Wells Food Festival adds a culinary dimension with stalls, tastings, demonstrations and family activities. In November, Wells is also part of the circuit known as the “Magnificent Seven”, organised by the Somerset County Guy Fawkes Association.

When choosing a holiday apartment in Wells, it is worth considering your preferred travel rhythm in advance: culture enthusiasts can plan their days around the cathedral, Vicars’ Close and the museum, while walks, markets and excursions into the Mendip Hills offer different focal points. Local buses run regularly between Wells and Bristol, Bath, Weston-Super-Mare, Shepton Mallet and Glastonbury. This means that your accommodation decision can also be based on whether Wells itself is to be the main focus or combined with other destinations.

Find more places for travel planning under Bagborough, Stowell, Martock, Othery, Frome, Mark, Ashwick and Buckland Dinham.

For the higher-level travel overview: Somerset.