bath

Wells Somerset, one of England's smallest cities


a delight to explore, dominating the skyline -the Cathedral


wells-cathedral
Wells Cathedral

The Cotswolds | Bath | Wells | Glastonbury | Stonehenge | Bristol |

Wells Somerset, one of England's smallest cities- a delight to explore Dominating the skyline -the Cathedral one of the best surviving examples of medieval English gothic style . The imposing West Front, built in the early 13th century. Did you know that over 300 of the original 500 medieval figures survive to this day? Though a church was founded on the site in 705, the buildings you see today were begun in around 1180.

cathedral chloisters Well Cathedral Inside look down the Nave, see the carvings of animals and birds at the tops of the columns? Notice the scissor arches constructed to help take the additional weight when the tower was heightened. Admire the superb fan vaulted ceilings of both the Nave and Chapter House. Climb the steps to the octagonal Chapter House- notice how worn they are? The stained glass of the Chapter House is some of the best preserved medieval glass in the country. Wander the cloisters and the Quadrangle. A working medieval clock

bishops-palace-wells moat mute-swan great-hall

bishops-palace Wells Bishops Palace. Visit the Bishop's Palace fortified in the 14th century during power struggles between the Bishop of Bath and the city, with high walls and a moat- the only access through the gatehouse. Today altogether a more peaceful place, still the residence of the Bishop of Bath and Wells With mute swans gliding in the moat and maybe in summer a game of croquet taking place on the lawn. Explore the 14 acres of delightful gardens, the ruins of the Great Hall and Bishop's Private Chapel. See the spring giving the city its name?.

Visit Wells Somerset. penniless-porch bishops-eye market-place In the centre of the city Market Place, notice the water running in the rills alongside both pavements? The water comes from the natural springs. Bishop's Eye a stone gatehouse to the Bishops' Palace, and in the left hand corner the 15th century Penniless Porch, once providing shelter to homeless beggars. Wander the cobbled street that is Vicars' Close a row of 40 houses built in the 14th century- some say the best preserved medieval street in England. Enjoy a meal in the Crown at Wells a 15th century Grade II listed building or White Hart Hotel A 15th Century Coaching Inn.

Accomodation Wells

Best Western Swan Hotel Wells (Nr Bath/Bristol) - 15th Century Coaching Inn - Located opposite Wells Cathedral - 49 ensuite bedrooms - AA Rosetted Restaurant - Alfresco Dining during the Summer - 6 Conference Rooms available - Licensed for civil ceremonies

White Hart Hotel Wells A 15th Century Coaching Inn offering 15 en-suite bedrooms, conference facilities for up to 150, extensive brasserie menu and separate restaurant. Dating from the 15th Century the hotel occupies a very desirable position in the heart of the medieval City of Wells.

Meare Manor Meare [Nr Glastonbury/ Street] Situated 3 miles from Glastonbury and Street in the heart of the Somerset Levels, we are ideally situated for both a relaxed but convenient weekend break or a longer stay to fully explore the local area. The Country House is within easy reach of: Historic town of Glastonbury, Cathedral City of Wells, Cheddar Gorge & Wookey Hole Caves, Clark's Village at Street.

Three Abbey Green Three Abbey Green is a Grade 2 Listed townhouse dating back to 1689. Set in an historic square in the heart of Bath, it provides a superb central location for exploring the city. The Abbey, Roman Baths and Pump Rooms are on the doorstep.

bath-spa Visit nearby Bath. First settled by the Celts, whom legend had it discovered the hot springs' medicinal qualities. Then occupied by the Romans, who promptly built their own temple and spa - Sulis Minerva. Or the Cotswolds. Villages of mellow stone, rolling hills, winding rivers and water meadows. Centuries old towns, like Stow on the Wold. Glastonbury with its myths, legends, and abbey ruins -a place of pilgrimage

Click on thumbnails for larger view © Cornish Light

If you've not visited our site before please visit our Welcome page
Beautiful England A Tourist Guide with Beautiful Pictures Beautiful Scotland

Privacy | Legal Notice

© Cornishlight 1998-2016

Cornwall |