Wells

Wells lies sheltered beneath the southern slopes of the Mendip Hills, and combines a wealth of historic interest and beautiful architecture with its role as a thriving business and residential community.

Although one of the Mendip District’s five towns, due to having a cathedral, Wells qualifies as England’s smallest, and Somerset’s only city.

Probably the finest national example of early English architecture, Wells Cathedral was largely built between the 12th and 14th centuries, but was itself a successor to a 7th-century church, founded by the Saxon King Ina. The cathedral is famed for its magnificent west front, featuring over 300 statues and carvings; the inverted scissor arches of the nave, and one of the oldest working mechanical clocks (dated about 1390).

The wells, which gave the city its name are now contained within the grounds of the Bishop’s Palace, still the residence of Bishops of Bath and Wells. Regularly opened to the public, its main features are a 13th-century undercroft, imposing state rooms and tranquil gardens surrounded by battlemented walls and a moat.

Also of interest are Vicars’ Close, claimed to be the oldest complete medieval street in Europe, and the historic market place.