Things To Do
in Wells
Wells is a compact cathedral city in Somerset, England, anchored by the soaring Wells Cathedral and the elegant Bishop's Palace gardens. The town sits on the edge of the Mendip Hills, offering easy day trips to Cheddar Gorge and Glastonbury. It is widely regarded as England's smallest city by population, with a walkable Market Place, medieval lanes, and a rich history woven into every stone.
The surrounding countryside, gardens, and historic architecture create a charming blend of culture and nature that makes Wells a perfect base for exploring southwest England.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Arrive in Wells and check into your cozy accommodation. Begin your journey with a visit to the stunning Wells Cathedral, known for its magnificent Gothic architecture and intricate detailing. Spend time exploring the grounds, taking in the beauty of the cathedral before heading out into the city.
After a hearty lunch at a local café, visit the Bishop's Palace, where you can wander through the beautifully manicured gardens and learn about the rich history of the site. Take a leisurely stroll along the moat and don’t forget to snap some pictures of the palace and the surrounding landscape. As the afternoon sun sets, stop by the Wells Market, where you can pick up local crafts and treats.
As evening falls, enjoy a delightful dinner at a traditional pub, where you can savor locally sourced dishes. After dinner, take a relaxed walk through the charming streets of Wells, admiring the historical buildings lit up at night. Capture the peaceful atmosphere as you prepare for more adventures the next day.
Start your day with a visit to the Wells and Mendip Museum, where you can learn about the fascinating local history and geology of the Mendip Hills. Engaging exhibits will take you through ancient history, showcasing various artifacts and artworks. Spend some time in the museum shop for unique souvenirs.
For lunch, head to a quaint café in the market square before embarking on a walk along the scenic Mendip Hills. The area offers picturesque views and invigorating walking trails suitable for all levels. Enjoy a refreshing picnic amidst nature as you soak in the stunning landscapes.
Return to Wells for a casual dinner at a family-owned restaurant, experiencing the warm hospitality of local cuisine. Consider attending a performance or event at the Wells Little Theatre for a taste of local arts. End your day with a nightcap at a nearby pub, reflecting on the experiences of the day.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $12-18 |
| ☕Coffee | $3-5 |
| 🧀Local cheese (0.5 lb) | $6-12 |
| 🛏️Hotel room per night | $120-180 |
| 🍺Pint of local cider/beer | $5-7 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich historic architecture and compact city center
- Excellent base for Mendip Hills and Cheddar Gorge
- Walkable streets and scenic riverfronts
- Access to Bath and Bristol for broader nightlife and culture
- Limited nightlife within Wells itself
- Smaller dining scene compared to larger cities
- Public transport can be less frequent in rural hours
Places to Visit in Wells
Visit one of these nice places.
A masterpiece of Early English Gothic architecture with soaring spires and intricate stonework; dramatic in morning or golden-hour light.
Riverside lawns, formal gardens, and the palace gate create classic English garden photography.
Medieval cobbled street with timber-framed houses; one of the oldest planned streets in England.
Historic square framed by elegant buildings and the town’s iconic clock; great for atmospheric street scenes.
Iconic hill offering sweeping views over the Somerset Levels; ideal for landscape shots on a clear day.
Food in Wells
Wells Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Sharp, aged cheddar from nearby Cheddar Gorge; widely available in Wells' shops and pubs.
Must-Try!
Scones with clotted cream and jam served with tea; a classic West Country treat.
Pear halves poached in local Somerset cider for a simple, seasonal dessert.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Weekly market selling local produce, cheeses, baked goods and crafts.
Occasional stalls and pop-ups in Market Place during market days or town events.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
British queues are respected; join at the end and wait your turn patiently.
Say please and thank you; keep voices considerate in sacred spaces and quiet during services.
Dress modestly when visiting churches; speak softly inside Wells Cathedral.
Tipping norms align with general UK practice; refer to tipping section for guidance.
Safety
Tipping in Wells
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is appreciated but not obligatory; in restaurants 10-15% if service is not included; pubs may round up or leave a small tip.
Cards (including contactless) are widely accepted; cash is still commonly used in small shops and markets.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Long daylight hours, mild to warm temperatures, and outdoor events. Expect occasional showers; bring a light layer and water.
Harvest season with golden countryside; cooler days and variable rain; great for photography and markets.
Cool to cold, with shorter days and possible frost or rain. Pubs and cafes provide cozy refuges; fewer crowds.
Blossoms and green landscapes return; comfortable walking weather with intermittent showers.
Wells at Night
Hiking in Wells
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Dramatic limestone cliffs with scenic walks and viewpoints, ideal for day trips from Wells.
Extensive network of trails offering panoramic views and varied terrain.
Short drive away; steep ascent and sweeping views over the Levels and countryside.
Airports
How to reach Wells by plane.
Approximately 25-40 miles from Wells; good for domestic and international connections with rail and road links to Wells.
About 60-70 miles away; smaller hub with regional flights and connections to major cities.
Roughly 70-90 miles away; options for connections via road or rail with transfer routes to Wells.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Primarily White British with a steady mix of commuters and retirees; small student presence due to proximity to Bath and Bristol beyond Wells.
Year-round visitors drawn by Wells Cathedral, Bishop's Palace, and Mendip Hills access.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Club matches and local leagues are common in the county during summer.
Local amateur and semi-professional teams play in nearby towns and villages.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Wells.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian options are widely available; look for veggie pies, salads, and cottage pies; ask for dairy-free options.
Most venues accommodate gluten-free diets; inform staff; some bakeries may have limited options.