The Bishop's Palace & Gardens, Wells

Historic Heritage Rooted in Medieval Splendour

The Bishop's Palace in Wells stands as a remarkable testament to over eight centuries of ecclesiastical history. Serving as the residence for the Bishops of Bath and Wells since medieval times, the palace's architecture showcases a blend of medieval craftsmanship and enduring charm. Visitors enter through a distinctive portcullis and cross a flagstone drawbridge spanning a moat, home to the palace's famous resident mute swans. Inside, the vaulted Undercroft and the elegant Long Gallery reveal the palace's historic grandeur and architectural finesse.

Expansive Gardens and Natural Beauty

Surrounding the palace are 14 acres of meticulously maintained gardens, designated as RHS Partner gardens. These grounds include the iconic well pools, the namesake of the city of Wells, and a diverse array of flora that changes with the seasons. The gardens offer a tranquil retreat with winding paths, vibrant flowerbeds, and shaded arboretums. Among the highlights is the Dragon’s Lair, a natural play area nestled within the arboretum, designed to engage younger visitors with imaginative outdoor fun.

Engaging Visitor Experience and Facilities

Admission to the Bishop’s Palace includes access to the palace, chapel, and gardens, along with daily guided tours and multimedia audio guides that enrich the visitor experience. The palace hosts a year-round calendar of events, including family workshops, storytelling sessions, themed weekends such as Civil War reenactments, and seasonal festivities. The Bishop’s Table café, renowned for its locally sourced homemade food and excellent coffee, offers a scenic spot for breakfast, lunch, or afternoon tea, overlooking the picturesque grounds.

Accessibility and Visitor Comfort

The Bishop's Palace is committed to accessibility, featuring level access from the main entrance through the gardens and to the café. A lift provides access to all floors within the palace building, and there are fully accessible toilets and parking spaces available by prior arrangement. The grounds are dog-friendly on leads, making it welcoming for visitors with pets. The site also includes picnic areas, a gift shop, and information boards to enhance the visitor experience.

Seasonal Opening and Admission Details

The palace and gardens operate seasonally with summer hours from 9:30am to 5:30pm and winter hours from 10am to 4pm, open daily throughout the year except for select holiday closures. Admission prices are modest, with adult tickets around £14, students £12, and children £7, while under-fives enter free. Annual passes offer unlimited visits and additional benefits, including discounts and priority event bookings. Special joint tickets with Wells Cathedral are also available.

Location and Surroundings

Situated in the heart of Wells, Somerset, the Bishop’s Palace is adjacent to the iconic Wells Cathedral and easily accessible via local transport routes. The palace’s moat and gardens provide a peaceful contrast to the bustling city center, making it a serene urban oasis. The surrounding area offers additional historic and cultural attractions, complementing a visit to this medieval gem.