14 Things to Do in Wells, Somerset: England’s Smallest Town
Get ready to fall in love with one of the most charming (and smallest) towns in England and find out which are the best things to do in Wells!
I’ve visited Wells village recently and I immediately felt as if I time-traveled to another place when I arrived there!
So if you want to learn which are the top attractions that you can’t miss out on while in Wells, from someone who’s been there, stick around and prepare to be inspired! I’ve also included a short list of hotels and some places that you can visit near Wells.
I’d recommend booking them in advance, as Wells is pretty popular but tiny, so there aren’t many accommodation options there!
Quick Picks for Your Stay
If you don’t have time to read the whole post here are some of the best things that you shouldn’t miss out on while visiting Wells town:
- Visit Wells Cathedral
- Explore Bishop’s Place & Gardens
- Check out Vicar’s Close
And here are the best hotels: The Sheep and Penguin (luxury), The Swan Hotel (mid-range), The City Arms (budget)
1. Remain in awe of Wells Cathedral
An architectural masterpiece!
Wells Cathedral (map) is one of those places that you visit and find yourself saying “wow” every 5 minutes! Known as one of the most “poetic” of the English cathedrals, the holy site has Gothic architecture, which you can spend hours admiring!
Apparently, it took 300 years to build this Gothic cathedral, and once you see all the intricate elements, you’ll understand why.
When I visited, it took me a while to explore the whole place and I also wanted to sit down a bit to see the famous clock chime (it is one of the oldest ones in the UK). It has the cutest little jousting knights!
As I was looking around it I felt as if I was walking on the corridors of Hogwarts! It definitely brings a bit of Harry Potterish vibes. Especially the “scissor arches” that support the central tower, which sort of look like a portal!
You can visit Wells Cathedral on a tour (check their website for bookings) or just by yourself!
PRICE: US$18
2. Visit the Bishop’s Palace & Gardens
I loved walking around these gardens, they’re so big and have this cool maze that will make you feel as if you’ve time-traveled to some medieval court!
Wondering why Wells has this name? It’s actually from the 3 wells dedicated to St. Andrew. One is in the Market Place, and 2 are set within the grounds of this palace and the cathedral.
To get to the Palace (map) you need to pass through the Bishop’s Eye, a beautiful gate built in 1450 by Thomas Beckington! As you pass the bridge over the broad ditch that surrounds the palace and walk through the gate, make sure to stop by and say hi to the gorgeous swans who have the very important role of ringing the bell!
They’re so cute!
Once you get inside the ground you can walk around the gardens, visit the Chapel of the Holy Trinity and St. Mark (map) and of course the Palace which is an absolute gem for anyone who loves history!
I saw some interesting invitations to the coronation of Queen Elizabeth II and other unique objects like super old coronation capes!
NOTE: If you can’t find the chapel (I had a hard time) make sure you ask one of the staff members to help you out.
There’s also a restaurant, The Bishop’s Table (map) where you can grab a bite or enjoy the classy British afternoon tea or just some coffee!
PRICE: US$23
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3. Travel back in time at Vicar’s Close
Up for more time-traveling? Then head over to Vicar’s Close (map) the oldest residential street in Europe!
This is by far one of my favorite attractions in town and one of the best free things to do in Wells! Set only a short walk away from the Wells Cathedral, Vicar’s Close houses buildings dating back to the 14th century.
Most of the buildings were left intact and look much as they did all those centuries back! Built by Bishop Ralph of Wells, the houses were home to the Vicar’s Choral made of sopranos, altos, and bassists!
You’ll want to take lots of pics here as everything looks so amazing! I was lucky to visit when all the trees and flowers were blooming, which added to the magic of this beautiful place.
4. Walkthrough the Penniless Porch
As I mentioned, Wells is such a paradise for history lovers! You’ll find something super old at every corner!
When you go to visit the Bishop Palace and the Cathedral make sure you walk through the Penniless Porch (map) another gate dating back to the 1450s which was built at the same time as the Bishop’s Eye gate, that I mentioned earlier.
As the name suggests the gate was built as a shelter for beggars.
5. Attend the by-weekly market
If you’re visiting on a Wednesday or Saturday then you must head to Wells Market Place (map) and explore the numerous stands of goodies!
The Market Place is a historic trading spot just a short walk away from the main attractions like the Bishop Palace and the Cathedral.
You’ll find lots of things here from fresh local food, clothes, jewelry, books, you name it! You’ll also have the chance to mingle with the locals and buy some symbolic souvenirs that will remind you of this trip.
6. Snap a pic of the Bishop’s Barn
Just a short walk away from the Bishop’s Palace, right on Silver Street, you’ll find the Wells Recreation Ground (map) which is home to yet another historical building, the Bishop’s Barn (map).
Built in the 15th century, the Grade I building used to serve as a tithe barn to gather things that the local farmer would owe to the Church. It also became famous for holding Royalist troops during the Bloody Assizes.
Now it serves as a recreation spot, but it still looks really nice, so if you want to take some pics, and learn more about its history, definitely check it out.
7. Take a day trip to Glastonbury
Want to visit the real-life Avalon and dive into the rabbit hole with stories of King Arthur and his knights?
Then you definitely need to take a day trip to Glastonbury which is only a 30 min bus drive away from Wells (you can use the 77, 376, 375, 374 buses to get there).
I actually stayed in Glastonbury for a few days and absolutely loved it there! The atmosphere, the people, the sacred sites and all the amazing stores made me want to return there, soon!
If you only have 1 day in Glastonbury then you should definitely climb up to see the Glastonbury Tor (map), which is an important site for many spiritual pilgrims who visit the town, plus the views are amazing!
Near the base of the Glastonbury Tor you should also check out the White Spring Temple (map) from where you can also get some spring water! However, be mindful of the place and people as it’s considered a sacred site.
And then there are the Chalice Well Gardens (map), a gorgeous spot where you can walk around and just relax! The atmosphere is so peaceful there, that you’ll never want to leave!
Back on the high street, you’ll find countless shops that sell spiritual books, incense, crystals and other amazing things that would make great souvenirs!
Not too far from the high street, you’ll also find the Glastonbury Abbey (map), which word has it, is the resting place of King Arthur and Queen Guinevere. There isn’t much left of the abbey but it’s a beautiful place and again, super peaceful! I actually ended up exploring for so long while I was there!
And if you’re looking for a place to eat, FARA (map) serves the most delicious food and drinks in town!
8. Check out St. Cuthbert Church
Although Wells Cathedral is the star of Wells, you should also check out St Cuthbert’s Church (map)!
Boasting beautiful architecture, the Grade I listed building has a unique stone tower and an impressive ceiling!
St Cuthbert’s Church is definitely a must-see if you’re into history and architecture!
PRICE: Free
9. Eat some yummy fudge
While I was exploring the Wells Market Place, looking for attractions, I stumbled across this cute little fudge shop, called Roly’s Fudge (map) and as I’m a huge sweets fan I went in!
They have tons of aromas and fudge ice cream! I also got some bags as souvenirs, so if you’re a fudge person, make sure you head there!
You’ll also find some other independent shops on the High Street if you want to continue the shopping adventure.
10. Learn new things at the Wells & Mendip Museum
Want to dive deeper into the history of Wells?
Then head to Wells & Mendip Museum, which was founded by the archeologist, Herbert Balch back in the 1890s.
Their exhibitions are all about local history and you’ll be able to see lots of geological artifacts and also get to explore the gardens and gift shop!
PRICE: US$8
11. Take a day trip to Wookey Hole or Cheddar Gorge
If you’re up for a fun adventure then a short trip to Wookey Hole Caves or Cheddar Gorge, or even both if you’ve got the time might be super exciting!
These are some of the best Somerset tourist attractions!
Wookey Hole Caves are located just a 5 min drive away from Wells and 10 min bus trip away (you can take the 67 bus) and they’re some of the largest caves in England!
While there you can explore the prehistoric cave area, and check out the attractions there like the 4D Cinema and play areas! Your kids will absolutely love it!
Legend has it that a really long time ago there was a woman living in these caves, the Witch of Wookey!
There’s a whole story about her, depicting her as an evil witch (as are most, but who knows if that’s the truth, my guess is not), but if you want to learn more you can read about it on their website.
Located a 20 min drive away from Wells and an 1h and 30 min by bus (you can take the 126 bus), Cheddar Gorge is England’s largest gorge and it looks absolutely incredible!
You can explore the Gorge bandy car or just walking and visit its attractions like the High Rock (map), the Arch Rock (map) and the caves (map)
PRICE: US$30 for the Wookey Hole Caves
12. Explore the Milton Lodge Gardens
If you want to spend some time in nature while in Wells, in a place that’s within easy reach of the main attractions then head to the Milton Lodge Gardens (map)!
Located on the Mendip Hills just a 30 min walk away from the Bishop’s Palace and the other attraction, the Gardens offers some incredible views of the city!
If you want, you can get a blanket, some snacks and enjoy a cute little picnic!
PRICE: US$6
13. Do the Wells city trail
A great way to discover Wells is by doing the city trail which is 3 miles (5 km) long.
You can pick up a map with the trail from the Wells Tourist Information Centre (map) which is set near the Town Hall and it will cost you US$1.30.
On the trail which is in the form of an 8 figure you’ll get to see some of the attractions in town and, of course, stop where you want to visit each place.
14. Join a Wells walking tour
There are a few walking tours that you can take around the city and you can find and book them on the Wells Walking Tours website.
One of the most exciting ones is the Hot Fuzz walking tour where you’ll get to explore some of the locations that appeared in the 2007 Hot Fuzz movie!
Lots of movies and Tv series were shot here like The Huntsman: Winter’s War, The White Princess and Elizabeth: The Golden Age, among many others
Join a movie location tour in Wells
Things to do near Wells, Somerset
If you’re looking for some more things do near Wells, or day trips that you can take, here are a couple of more places that I think you’ll really like:
- Take a day trip to Bath – 1h 40 min away by bus
- Visit Bristol – 1h 20 min away by bus (here’s a post with some of the best things to do in Bristol if you need some inspo)
- Check out Stonehenge – 1h away by car
- Explore the Shepton Mallet town – 30 min away by bus
| ⛪ Unique attraction: | Wells Cathedral |
| 🗝️ Best free activity: | Vicar’s Close |
| 🥧 Must-try food: | Fudge |
Where to stay in Wells
Looking for some amazing places to stay in the city? Now that we’ve see what to do in Wells, Somerset, let’s also see some of the top hotels, which I listed from most to least expensive:
- Luxury: The Sheep and Penguin – set within easy reach of Market Place and Bishop’s Palace, this accommodation offers stylish rooms, a restaurant and a bar.
- Mid-range: The Swan Hotel – a unique hotel set in a 15th century building, that faces the Cathedral and comes with unique furnishings like four-poster beds, a courtyard garden and a restaurant.
- Budget: The City Arms – an affordable hotel that comes with an outdoor terrace, a restaurant and a bar.
FAQs about things to do in Wells
🤔 How do you spend a day in Wells?
If you have 1 day in Wells you should stick to the main sites, like the Wells Cathedral, the Bishop’s Palace, Vicar’s Close and the Market Place.
🔝 Is Wells, UK worth visiting?
Yes! Wells is the smallest city in England and it has some iconic attractions that will make the visit totally worth it.
⛪ What is Wells in Somerset famous for?
Wells is famous for being the smallest city in England and for its unique Cathedral, the Bishop’s Palace and Vicar’s close.
🛍️ What shops are in Wells, Somerset?
You’ll find some independent shops but some high street brands as well!
📅 What day is Wells Market on?
Market day is on Wednesday and Saturday and it takes place in the Market Place.
🧭 What is the famous street in Wells?
Vicar’s Close is the famous street in Wells, and it’s the oldest residential street in Europe.
💯 Is Wells the smallest city in England?
Yes, Wells is the smallest city in England!
Final thoughts on things to do in Wells
I hope everyone enjoyed this guide with the best things to do in Wells, England!
I had such a blast exploring Wells town and all its attractions and I’m sure you’ll also like it there!
Since Wells is such a popular place (and the smallest town in England) I recommend booking your hotels here in advance as there isn’t a wide range of hotels. I included 3 options in a section above, so make sure you check it out!
Enjoy your holiday and if you’re looking for more things to do in Somerset or have any questions on the places to visit in Wells, just drop me a comment below and I’ll answer as soon as I can!
Happy exploring,
Victoria
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