Favourite attractions in Wells

Have you noticed that pavement space around the market square is at a bit of a premium at the moment? Now that a simple trip to Microbitz or Studleys at the end of the town involves neatly dancing do-si-do's with unsuspecting tourists and hopping off and on kerbs in order to make even a little progress through the throng, it’s reassuring to see that the international economic slump hasn’t produced too much of a downturn in tourism to Wells and that all the city has to offer still merits sincere interest from these wonderful visitors.

There is such a rich historical and cultural heritage in Wells it’s hard to guess which attractions are the most popular with readers and contributors to WellsPeople and to tourists in general. We’d love to know which ones your cherish as the most significant, maybe you have a special memory associated with one in particular?

The Bishop’s Palace is more than simply an historic house and garden, this splendid medieval Palace has been the home of the Bishops of Bath and Wells for 800 years.  There are 14 acres of gardens including the springs from which the city takes its name.  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. You can also hire this outstanding venue for your wedding reception or for a special event. One of the greatest advantages to residents is that a season ticket is available for a snip which allows you unlimited entry during opening hours for the whole season.

Wells Cathedral is a truly magnificent cathedral with the largest gothic façade in Europe. Wells begain as a holy place, taking it name from the wells in the Bishop’s Palace grounds. The first church was built near the wells in 705 and the present cathedral building was begun in 1180. It has survived eight centuries with all its associated buildings still around it – the Chapter House, Vicar’s Hall, the cloisters and the unique Vicar’s Close – all treasures from the 13th & 15th centuries. Today the cathedral still dominates the attractive city.

Wells and Mendip Museum is a fascinating treasure trove all year round, but if you’re quick enough to visit before the end of July, you can get involved with a number of events for the Festival of British Archeology.

A visit to Wells would not be complete without an invigorating walk across the Mendips. Wells is nestled in this beautiful range of hills and a ramble via the network of public footpaths to higher ground will help you appreciate the city of Wells from a different angle.

Here are a handful of our favourites but please join-in the discussion and add your own Wells highlights below.

Photo by Canong2fan