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Wells Cathedral

Travel Information and nearby accommodation

Wells became a see in 909, and for the next 300 years squabbled with nearby Bath for the position. In the 13th century the quarrel was ended by creating the joint bishopric of Bath and Wells. In the meantime Wells had gained what has been called the earliest completely Gothic cathedral in Europe. The west screen, with places for 300 carved figures, is a striking sight, as is the scissors vault (more properly called strainer arches) that was a 14th century attempt to shore up the shifting foundations of the central tower. Look at the carvings decorating the transepts. One shows a man grimacing with a fearsome toothache. The Wells chapter house is amazing, with its central pier sprouting 32 vaulting ribs, but the staircase to reach it is equally notable; it curves and undulates like flowing water. There is also a 14th century mechanical clock that strikes the hours by having two wooden knights bash each other with battleaxes. Nearby is the Bishop's Palace and the 14th century purpose-built street of houses for the vicars of the cathedral. The ambience is wonderful. Don't miss Wells. more details ...
Wells, Somerset, England, BA5 2UE

About Wells Cathedral
Attraction Type: Cathedral
Website: Wells Cathedral
Email: office@wellscathedral.uk.net
Phone: 01749 674 483
Fax: 01749 832 210
Location map
OS ST551 459
Photo Credit: David Ross and Britain Express

Heritage Highlight: Fantastic west screen carvings
Heritage Rating:   ?

Nearest attractions Nearest Towns and Villages Nearest accommodation Nearest Tourist Information Centre

OS map Related Information

Nearest Attractions Bishop's Palace - 0.2 miles (Castle) Milton Lodge Gardens - 0.8 miles (Garden) Burcott Mill - 1.8 miles (Historic Property) Glastonbury Tor - 5.1 miles (Countryside) Glastonbury Tribunal - 5.3 miles (Museum) Chalice Well and Gardens - 5.4 miles (Garden) Glastonbury Abbey - 5.4 miles (Abbey) West Pennard Court Barn - 5.5 miles (Historic Property)

Nearest Towns and Villages Wells - 0.1 miles away Glastonbury - 5.4 miles away Somerton - 11.6 miles away Bath - 16.7 miles away Bristol - 16.7 miles away Sherborne - 18.8 miles away Bradford-on-Avon - 20.4 miles away Bradford Abbas - 20.5 miles away

Nearest Accommodation to Wells Cathedral

Nearest Self Catering Cottages

Wrinkle Mead - 0.2 miles from Wells Cathedral Wells, Somerset Sleeps: 4 Stay from: £300

Hill End Cottage - 1.7 miles from Wells Cathedral West Horrington, Somerset Sleeps: 4 Stay from: £300

The Old Dairy - 1.9 miles from Wells Cathedral East Horrington, Somerset Sleeps: 2 Stay from: £295

More Self Catering near Wells Cathedral

Nearest Hotels

The Ancient Gatehouse - 0.1 miles from Wells Cathedral Wells, Somerset Stay from: £70.00

White Hart Hotel - 0.1 miles from Wells Cathedral Wells, Somerset Stay from: £70.00

The Ancient Gatehouse Hotel - 0.1 miles from Wells Cathedral Wells, Somerset Stay from: £83.50

More Hotels near Wells Cathedral

Nearest Bed and Breakfasts

Burcott Mill Historic Watermill & Guesthouse - 1.8 miles from Wells Cathedral Wells, Somerset From: £28.00

The Pound Inn - 2.1 miles from Wells Cathedral Wells, Somerset From: £46.00

Beaconsfield Farm - 2.4 miles from Wells Cathedral Wells, Somerset

More bed and breakfasts near Wells Cathedral

Wells
Tourist Information Centre
Town Hall
Market Place
Wells
Somerset
England
BA5 2RB
Tel: 01749 672552
Fax: 01749 670869
Email: touristinfo@wells.gov.uk
Map