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Wells Cathedral

The present Cathedral in Wells, started in 1180 and largely completed by 1306, is one of the most impressive cathedrals in Britain. It survives with all of the original buildings associated with the cathedral including Vicar’s Close, the Chapter House and Cloisters.
It has been discovered from archaeological excavations, that there was a Roman Mausoleum on this site as well as a previous cathedral known as the Anglo-Saxon Minster church of St. Andrew. The foundations of the previous cathedral can be seen in the Camery Gardens just by the cathedral.
Wells Cathedral has probably the grandest West Front of any cathedral in Britain. It still retains over 300 of the original medieval statues. Inside the Cathedral are the magnificent Scissor Arches. These were built in the fourteenth century to strengthen and support the heightened central tower. The cathedral clock is unique as it still has its original medieval 24 hour clock face and complicated mechanical figures which move and ring a bell every quarter hour.

Web Site: www.wellscathedral.org.uk

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Bishop's Palace, Moat & Gardens

This splendid medieval palace has been the home of the Bishops of Bath & Wells for over 800 years. The first bishop of Bath & Wells received a crown licence to build a residence and deer park to the south of the cathedral. There are 14 acres of gardens including the springs from which the city takes its name. Within the fortified Palace walls lie the ruin of the Great Hall, the Bishop’s private chapel and the gardens with a small arboretum. This uniquely moated palace has an imposing gatehouse with portcullis and drawbridge which give the impression that you may be entering a castle structure, but inside is a peaceful and tranquil residence for the visitor to enjoy.

Web Site: www.bishopspalace.org.uk

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Vicars' Close

Vicars' Close next to Wells Cathedral is a stunning medieval cobbled street. It is said to be the oldest continually occupied street in Europe. It was built in 1360s as an extension of the cathedral by Bishop Ralph of Shrewsbury. He built the Vicar’s Hall and Close to give the men of the quire secure accommodation away from the temptations of the town. The Close and Cathedral are linked by a bridge.
It still houses members of the choir today and has remained unchanged in nearly 700 years.

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Wells Market Place

The Wells Market Place has been a focal point of the City over the ages and still is today with a twice weekly market on Wednesday and Saturday selling local produce and goods. A Farmers’ Market is held here every Wednesday. Twice a year a funfair is held, together with other lively activities such as the annual boules (petanque) competition.
Mary Rand, who was a resident of the City, achieved a world record in the long jump at the 1964 Olympic Games. A commemorative plaque showing the actual distance can be found in the pavement. There is also an unusual medieval fresh water conduit. Two medieval gateways are located on the market place known as Penniless Porch and the Bishop's Eye. The Tourist Information centre and Post Office are located on the Market Place. All images © Black Dog of Wells.

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Milton Lodge Gardens

Milton Lodge, Old Bristol Road, Wells, Somerset, BA5 3AQ, Tel: 01749 672168 / 679341

This Grade II listed garden at Milton Lodge just outside Wells, was conceived around 1900 by Mr Charles Tudway, the present owner’s great grandfather. During the first ten years of the 20th Century the sloping ground was transformed into the existing series of architectural terraces, specifically to capitalise on the glorious views of Wells Cathedral and the Vale of Avalon. Associated with the garden is a seven acre arboretum. We are open from Good Friday until the end of October between 2pm and 5pm every Tuesday, Wednesday, Sunday and Bank Holiday. All images © Milton Lodge Gardens.

Web Site: www.miltonlodgegardens.co.uk

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Wookey Hole Caves

Britain’s Famous Wookey Hole Caves can be found in the small village of Wookey Hole, just a couple of miles from Wells. These caves have been here for tens of thousands of years and archaeologists have indicated that man may have used these for their homes as far as 50,000 years ago.
As you pass through the caves you will see the underground river, impressive stalactites and stalagmites, the Cathedral Chamber and the legendary Witch of Wookey!
These magnificent caves can be visited all year round along with a dinosaur theme park.
You can also visit the hand made paper mill, Visitors can watch the skilled Vatman and his assistant making paper in the traditional way. Visitors can also have a go at making some paper themselves.
Meet the resident Witch of Wookey Hole, she will be flying her speedy broomstick to meet and greet our visitors – have your picture taken if you dare!
Our brand new extravagant light show in the caves will be a must-see this year, with new technology to show our caves at their very best.
The Pirate Circus Show will be performing in the Wookey Theatre (weekends and during school holidays)– be dazzled by the trapeze and silk skills and be enthralled by the wire walking and unicycle tricks – a show not to be missed! All images © Wookey Hole Caves.

Web Site: www.wookey.co.uk

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Kilver Court Gardens

Kilver Court, Kilver Street, Shepton Mallet, Somerset, BA4 5NF, Tel: 01749 340410

A trip to Kilver Court promises an all-encompassing lifestyle experience, the ingredients being: the gardens and nursery; a farm shop and café. The gardens are Somerset’s best kept secret featuring a millpond and boating lake as well as rolling lawns, parterres and herbaceous borders. In Spring there is the most spectacular vibrant colour of rhododendrons, azaleas and camellias, but probably the most staggering feature of this Secret garden is the backdrop - a vast Grade II* listed viaduct built for the Somerset and Dorset railway in 1874.

Web Site: www.kilvercourt.com

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Glastonbury Abbey

Glastonbury Abbey, lying in the heart of Glastonbury was once one of the greatest abbeys in the country.
The ruins of this abbey are on a grand scale and the grounds surrounding them provide a peaceful retreat from the hectic outside world. This is also the possible burial place of the legendary King Arthur. It is believed that the first church was erected on this site by the Saxons in the 7th century. Many further additions were added from the 10th to the 15th centuries until the reign of Henry VIII in the 16th century when virtually all monasteries, friaries and nunneries were destroyed in what was termed the Dissolution of the Monasteries. There is an excellent museum that charts the changing times of this site. All images © Glastonbury Abbey.

Web Site: www.glastonburyabbey.com

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Glastonbury Tor

Glastonbury Tor is one of Somerset’s most magical and mythical landmarks. It can be seen from a great distance and in certain weather conditions, particularly when mists cover the Somerset Levels the Tor and tower can stand out giving it a mythical feel that we may associate with the Legendary King Arthur. A chapel was built around 1100 which was destroyed by a powerful earthquake in 1275 and the tower is all the remains today.
The sacred Glastonbury Thorn is thought to have been planted at the foot of the Tor by Joseph of Aramathea. When he landed on the Isle of Avalon he thrust his staff into the ground and when he woke up from his rest he found that it had sprouted into a bush.
If you climb the Tor on a clear day you will get some magnificent views on the surrounding landscape. To the north you will see the Mendip Hills together with the City of Wells and its cathedral; to the west the island of Steep Holm in the Bristol Channel; Brent Knoll to the northwest; the Polden Hills and Quantock Hills to the southwest, and the Black mountains of Wales in the far distance.
More information on this and many other historical sites in the area can be found on the link below. The beautiful image of the Tor is © Lynne Newton www.foxybiddy.com

Web Site: www.isleofavalon.co.uk

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Cheddar Gorge & Caves

Cheddar Caves & Gorge, Cheddar, Somerset, BS27 3QF, Tel: 01934 742343

At Cheddar Caves & Gorge you'll find eight great attractions in Britain's biggest gorge, all covered by one Explorer ticket: cathedral-like Gough's Cave with audioguide tours; beautiful Cox's Cave; the Museum of Prehistory with Stone Age survival demonstrations by hunter-gatherers; the challenge of The Crystal Quest; The 274 steps leading to our 360-acre nature reserve; spectacular views from Lookout Tower; the 3-mile round-trip Clifftop Gorge Walk; the open-top Gorge Tour Bus. Take it to the edge with RockSport caving and climbing, shop till you drop in our Cargo Cult shop, watch authentic Cheddar Cheese ageing in our caves or just relax on the Cafe-Bar terrace with a cream tea. We're also a Site of Special Scientific Interest and a Special Area of Conservation with many rare species, such as Horseshoe bats, dormice and Peregrine falcons. Plenty of parking. Gorge with Bus image © Cheddar Caves & Gorge.
The settlement at Cheddar has been an important Roman and Saxon centre and is known for its cheese making as early as 1170 AD. There is more about the town on the Cheddar Village website www.cheddarvillage.co.uk

Web Site: www.cheddarcaves.co.uk

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The Cheddar Gorge Cheese Company

The Cheddar Gorge Cheese Company, The Cliffs, Cheddar, BS27 3QA, Tel: 01934 742810

The Cheddar Gorge Cheese Company is the only cheesemaker left in cheddar. The whole process takes around 8 hours from start to finish. You can watch us during the various stages as we transform our rich, local milk into award winning authentic Cheddar Cheese. Our viewing gallery allows you to watch our cheesemakers practice their skills, a DVD is also playing throughout the day to enable you to view the process from start to finish in about 20 minutes. From Easter until the end of October a guide is on hand to help and answer questions. After seeing cheese being made you can treat yourself to a free taste at our taster bar and then visit our shop where our Cheddars plus local pickles, biscuits, hand crafted cheese dishes, cheese knives etc are on sale.

Web Site: www.cheddargorgecheeseco.co.uk

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East Somerset Railway

Cranmore Railway Station, Cranmore, Shepton Mallet, BA4 4QP, Tel: 01749 880417

Steam through the rolling Mendip countryside on a day out at the East Somerset Railway. Take a ride on one of our steam trains on the five mile round trip and travel back in time to the halcyon days of steam. Visit the engine sheds to see how we look after our locomotives and step into the signal box (open most weekends) to watch the signalman at work. For the younger crowd we have occasional appearances from Thomas the Tank Engine & friends. We also have a museum, art gallery, shop, cafe, children's playground and picnic area. All images © East Somerset Railway.

Web Site: www.eastsomersetrailway.com

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The Enchanting Somerset Levels

The Levels are a sizable area that stretch further south than our Wells & Area Map may suggest. The main image supplied by Tony Howell shows Glastonbury Tor and other hills 'floating' in the mist. The ground is only a few meters above sea level and an extensive network of ditches and rivers help to drain the land of excess water. Indeed some areas can be frequently underwater after heavy rains. This is an area that is perfect to explore on bicycles as the flat landscape makes for easy riding. There are many small pretty villages here including Wedmore where the Saxon King Alfred signed a peace treaty with the Danes in the 9th century.
In 2001, the Willow Man appeared near Bridgwater next to the M4. This landmark is our version of the Angel of the North.
Meare Fish House built in the 14th century is located on what would have been a small island in the Levels. This is the last surviving monastic fishery building in England. This facility provided a place for salting fish and drying.
Not far away are the areas of Shapwick Heath and Westhay Heath. This is where starlings come here in huge numbers during the winter season. Please see separate entry for starlings.
There are many unusual buildings dotted about the Levels including the Ashton Mill, south of Cheddar. This mill tower built of stone dates back to the 18th century. The sails no longer turn but it is fully kitted out with all the machinery used for grinding corn.
Burrow Mump is a mini version of Glastonbury Tor. On top of this 24 metre high hill sits the church of St. Michael. This natural mound would have been an isolated patch of high ground with the marshy or even flooded Levels. It saw much action during King Alfred's time during the 800s and again during the Civil War in the 1640s. Close to Burrow Mump is a monument to Alfred on Athelney Hill.

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The Mendip Hills

The Mendip Hills are an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. They extend from just east of Wells almost to the Bristol Channel. Man has lived and worked on the Hills for many thousands of years. There are numerous burial mounds and the Romans mined for lead and what is left of these workings can be found at Charterhouse. These days the hills are enjoyed by the many visitors for the walking, biking, horse riding trails and the fantastic views. One of the best hills to climb is Crook Peak and although not that high it has far reaching views over the Somerset Levels and over the Bristol Channel to Wales. King John's Hunting Lodge is an early Tudor timber-framed wool merchant's house dating from about 1500. Ebbor Gorge is not on the scale of Cheddar Gorge but offers a beautiful meadow trail with wild flowers, wildlife and a small rocky gorge to walk through. Brean Down is not part of the Mendips but it is an extension of the hill range that juts into the Bristol Channel. This rocky outcrop is also a nature reserve that can be reached via a coast road from Burnham.
We have added a link for you to find walking and biking trails on the Mendips. These provide detailed instructions and maps of the routes. This is under the Publications heading on the left of the screen.

Web Site: www.mendiphillsaonb.org.uk

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Stembridge Tower Mill

High Ham, Somerset, TA10 9DJ, Tel: 01935 823289

Stembridge Tower Mill has stood in the village of High Ham since 1822. This is the last remaining thatched windmill in England.
There were many windmills across the Somerset Levels, but as factories began to mass produce bread the need for such mills – and their on site bakeries declined.
This mill was still grinding local cereals until 1910. All three floors can be viewed via narrow staircases. The top of the mill, which could swivel to maximise windpower, and the thatching remains.
All images © Black Dog of Wells.

Web Site: www.nationaltrust.org.uk/main/w-stembridgetowermill

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Stanton Drew Stone Circles

Close to Stanton Drew, there are three prehistoric stone circles at this site, the largest of which is 112 meters in diameter and is composed of 27 stones. It is the second biggest in the country after Avebury. Although many of the stones have fallen over it is still an impressive Iron Age site. One of the traditional stories of the stones is that this was a wedding party where everyone was turned to stone by the devil. The devil came in disguise and played his violin from Saturday through to Sunday morning when at first light all were turned to stone. All images © Black Dog of Wells. For a more detailed explanation of the circles copy this web address into your browser bar: www.isleofavalon.co.uk/sacredsites/stantondrew.html

Web Site: www.english-heritage.org.uk/daysout/properties/stanton-drew-circles-and-cove/

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The Bristol Channel Coast

Along the Bristol Channel, near Burnham is Berrow Sands. This long flat sandy beach is used by many people for all kinds of activities including horse riding, cycling, walking and other various sand sports. Berrow Sands is also the location for the Burnham Lighthouse, a wooden structure located on the beach. Also found here is the Nornen Boat, a Norwegian Barque that was wrecked on the beach in 1897. The long beaches have lines of groynes which were originally built to help stop the drift of sand.
This coastal area can provide some spectacular opportunities for photography. Sunsets can be deep red and day time shots with the shimmering watery sands can create some great reflections.
There is wildlife and birds to spot in the wilder parts of the coastline and on the rocky outcrop of Brean Down in particular, which is a nature reserve. Brean Down is also a great spot for excellent views in all directions.
The main image is a landscape shot of Brean Down and Uphill Church with the channel and coastline of Wales in the distance. Photo © www.tonyhowell.co.uk

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Stourhead

Stourhead features one of the finest landscape gardens in Britain. It was designed by Henry Hoare II between 1741 and 1780. The River Stour was dammed to form a lake. Surrounding the lake are a number of temples and follies such as the Pantheon, Temple of Apollo, Temple of Flora and the Palladian Bridge. Many rare and exotic trees are found around the lake including a Monkey Tree. There are fabulous blooms during the spring. Bluebells carpet the woodland floor whilst magnolia and rhododendron trees are covered in flowers. The Palladian mansion houses a unique collection of Chippendale furniture, magnificent paintings and an exquisite Regency library. This is well worth a visit which can be combined with King Alfred’s Tower for a great day out. All images © Black Dog of Wells.

Web Site: www.nationaltrust.org.uk/main/w-stourhead

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King Alfred's Tower

King Alfred's Tower is a folly: it is a building that arguably serves no purpose. Nevertheless its size and beauty make it an imposing addition to the landscape, and the views from the top are breathtaking.
The tower was intended to commemorate the end of the Seven Years War against France and supposedly stands near the location where it is believed that Alfred the Great, King of Wessex, rallied the Saxons in 878 before defeating the Danish army. The tower is 49 metres high and has 205 steps to the top for visitors to enjoy fantastic 360 degree view. All images © Black Dog of Wells.

Web Site: www.alfredstower.info

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Nunney Castle

Located in the village of Nunney (No address or telephone number found)

The striking and picturesque moated castle of Nunney was built in the 1370s by Sir John de la Mere, a local knight who was beginning to enjoy royal favour. Extensively modernised in the late 16th century, the castle was held for the King during the Civil War, but quickly fell to Parliamentarian cannon in 1645: not until Christmas Day 1910, however, did the gun-damaged portion of the wall finally collapse. Nunney Castle, image courtesy & © English Heritage Photo Library.

Web Site: www.english-heritage.org.uk/daysout/properties/nunney-castle/

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Lytes Cary

near Charlton Mackrell, Somerton, Somerset TA11 7HU, Tel: 01458 224471

This intimate manor house was the former home of medieval herbalist Henry Lyte. Here visitors can learn about his famous 16th-century plant directory, Lytes Herbal. The manor spans many years with its 14th-century chapel and 15th-century Great Hall. In the 20th century it was rescued from dereliction by Sir Walter Jenner. Its Arts & Crafts-style garden is a combination of outdoor rooms, topiary, statues and herbaceous borders. Explore the walks through the wider estate and riverside and discover many features typical of farmed lowland England, including ancient hedges, rare arable weeds and farmland birds.

Web Site: www.nationaltrust.org.uk/main/w-lytescarymanor

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Priest's House

Muchelney, Langport, Somerset, TA10 0DQ, Tel: 01458 253771

This medieval hall-house was built in 1308 for the parish priest by Muchelney Abbey. Very little has been altered since the early 17th century. It incorporates a Gothic doorway, tracery windows and a 15th-century fireplace.
It was used by the vicar or curate until around 1840. It later became a school, and in late 19th century it was rented by a farmer. Limited opening times. Image © Sarah Smith

Web Site: www.nationaltrust.org.uk/main/w-priestshousemuchelney

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Muchelney Abbey

Muchelney, Langport, Somerset, TA10 0DQ, Tel: 01458 250664

Muchelney Abbey was once a wealthy Benedictine house and the second oldest religious foundation in Somerset. In 1538 Henry VIII demolished some of the principal buildings during the dissolution of the monasteries. The foundations of the abbey can still be clearly seen along with parts of the richly decorated cloister walk and thatched monks’ lavatory, the only one of its kind in Britain. The 16th century abbots’ house remains intact with its magnificent rooms, and site finds are on display illustrating monastic life. Closeby is the 15th century church of St. Peter & St. Paul. One of the most striking features is the panelled roof with 17th century paintings. Muchelney Abbey, image courtesy & © English Heritage Photo Library. All other images © Black Dog of Wells

Web Site: www.english-heritage.org.uk/daysout/properties/muchelney-abbey/

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Bath

Bath is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. From the 1700's, the Georgians built simple but uniformly imposing buildings that had grandeur. Much of the city has hardly changed in over 200 years.
Bath was founded by the ancient Celts on the site of the only natural hot springs in England. They worshipped Sul, goddess of the springs. Later the Romans adopted the cult of Sul because of her similarity to their goddess Minerva. They established a bath and temple complex around the springs, and named the location Aquae Sulis, or Waters of Sul.
In the 18th century Bath became a much more genteel and fashionable place and many of the fine buildings that we see today were built then. These include the Pump Room, Royal Crescent, The Circus, Assembly Rooms, Great Pultney Street and Pultney Bridge.

Bath may be your main destination but should you have a couple of spare days why not add Wells onto your itinerary. Wells is just 22 miles away but it opens the door to a beautiful part of Somerset. Wells is not just a beautiful place to visit but can be a great base for exploring the surrounding area. All images © Black Dog of Wells.

Web Site: visitbath.co.uk

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Wells Visitor Information Service

Wells Visitor Information Service, Wells Museum, 8 Cathedral Green, Wells, BA5 2UE, Tel: 07745 782747 (temporary number)

Wells Visitor Information Service offer a wide range of services to both visitors and local residents alike, and a warm welcome will always be assured.
Members of staff at the Visitor Information Service will be pleased to help you with a wide range of services and enquiries, including:
-Local Accommodation Booking Service for Inspected Properties.
-Advice and guidance on what to see and do in the area including details of local attractions, opening times and entrance charges.
-Tickets and Discount vouchers for local events and attractions.
-Local “Access” information for attractions and the city of Wells.
-Public transport details, including train and bus timetables.
The Wells Visitor Information Service moved from the Market Place to the Wells Museum at the end of July 2010.