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So much to see and do .... 

   ... in and around England's smallest City 

 

Wells Cathedral



Wells Cathedral is the first English-built and designed example in the Gothic style, dating back to 1180.
Its famous features include the spectacular West Front which looks over the Cathedral Green, unique scissor arches in the Nave, a panorama of The Last Judgement, the Chapter House and the 600-year-old Astronomical Clock.

www.wellscathedral.org.uk

Vicar's Close, adjacent to the Cathedral
Is the oldest complete continuously inhabited medieval street in Europe. It was started in 1348 to provide 42 bachelor dwellings for the "Vicar's Choral", the men of the choir and the cornerstone of the city's great and enduring musical tradition.
Each house contained one room downstairs and another upstairs, linked by a rear turret. 


Bishop’s Palace & Garden & City Gates

The Bishop's Palace, protected by high defensive wall, a moat and gatehouse with drawbrige and portcullis, has been home to the Bishops of Bath and Wells for 800 years and is probably the most perfect and complete surviving example of a medieval bishop's palace. The state rooms and gardens are open to the public on certain days. The swans on the moat ask for food by ringing a bell near the drawbridge.

www.bishopspalacewells.co.uk

City Gates
Browne’s Gate and Penniless Porch give access to the Cathedral whilst the Bishop’s Eye enters the Palace area.   



Markets & Fairs

The Market Place lies at the heart of the city and is flanked by historic buildings including the Town Hall, built in 1779.  
Traditional open-air markets take place here on a Wednesday and Saturday with an interesting array from over 50 stall holders.  

 

Shopping & City Walks

Delight in visiting the many independant shops in the quaint streets that surround our historic city centre.
Break for lunch and take your pick from the pubs and quality restaurants that abound.
Then enjoy a scenic walk following our self-guided city trail leaflet (available from Tourist Information Office).
Click here to browse Wells Shopping Guide.



Nearby Attractions

Wells is ideally situated within easy reach of Glastonbury, Bristol and Bath.
Many attractions are a short drive away, including:


The Mendip Hills

This ancient fabulous range of hills is a designated Area of Outstanding Natural
Beauty.
Full details from the Charterhouse Centre at
www.mendiphillsaonb.org.uk

Outdoor Pursuits:   

Active Mendip provide activities including gliding, ballooning, 4 x 4 extreme,
caving, shooting, etc. www.activemendip.co.uk




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