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The Bishop's Palace & Gardens, Wells

Explore centuries of history, stunning gardens, and family-friendly charm at the medieval Bishop's Palace & Gardens in the heart of Wells.

4.6

The Bishop's Palace & Gardens in Wells, Somerset, is a stunning medieval palace surrounded by a moat with resident swans, serving as the historic home of the Bishops of Bath and Wells for over 800 years. Visitors can explore 14 acres of beautifully maintained RHS Partner gardens, the medieval palace buildings, and a charming chapel, alongside family-friendly attractions like the Dragon’s Lair play area and year-round events. The site offers guided tours, a popular café, and accessible facilities, making it a captivating cultural and natural landmark in the heart of Wells.

A brief summary to The Bishop's Palace & Gardens

  • The Bishop's Palace, Wells, BA5 2PD, GB
  • +441749988111
  • Visit website
  • Duration: 2 to 5 hours
  • Mid ranged
  • Environment icon Outdoor
  • Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
  • Monday 10 am-4 pm
  • Tuesday 10 am-4 pm
  • Wednesday 10 am-4 pm
  • Thursday 10 am-4 pm
  • Friday 10 am-4 pm
  • Saturday 10 am-4 pm
  • Sunday 10 am-4 pm

Local tips

  • Visit early in the day or on weekday mornings to enjoy a quieter experience and better photo opportunities.
  • Take advantage of the included guided tours and multimedia audio guides to fully appreciate the palace’s history.
  • Don’t miss the charming spectacle of the swans ringing a bell to be fed at the moat entrance.
  • Enjoy refreshments at The Bishop’s Table café, which offers locally sourced food with lovely views over the gardens.
  • Check the event calendar before visiting to catch special family activities, open-air concerts, or seasonal festivities.
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Getting There

  • Bus

    Regular bus services from Bath, Bristol, and nearby coastal towns stop near Wells city centre, approximately a 10-15 minute walk from The Bishop’s Palace. Bus routes 26, 29, 37, 126, 161/2, 173, 375, and 376 provide frequent service. Tickets typically cost £5-£10 depending on origin.

  • Coach

    Coach drop-off is available at Prince’s Road Coach Park, about a 10-minute walk from the palace. Advance booking is recommended for group visits. Parking fees apply, generally around £10 per day.

  • Car

    Visitors arriving by car can park in nearby public car parks in Wells city centre. Three accessible parking spaces are available on site but must be booked at least 48 hours in advance. Parking fees vary by location, typically £3-£6 for a half-day.

  • Walking and Cycling

    The palace is centrally located in Wells and easily accessible on foot from the city centre. It is also on Sustrans cycle route 3, offering a scenic and eco-friendly way to arrive. Bike racks are available nearby.

The Bishop's Palace & Gardens location weather suitability

  • Weather icon Any Weather
  • Weather icon Rain / Wet Weather
  • Weather icon Clear Skies
  • Weather icon Mild Temperatures

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Discover more about The Bishop's Palace & Gardens

Historic Legacy and Architectural Splendour

The Bishop's Palace has been the residence of the Bishops of Bath and Wells for more than eight centuries, reflecting a rich medieval heritage. The palace is surrounded by a breath-taking moat inhabited by iconic mute swans, which have become a beloved symbol of the site. Visitors enter through a flagstone drawbridge and portcullis, stepping into a realm of medieval architecture that includes vaulted undercrofts, the elegant Long Gallery, and the Bishop’s Chapel. The palace’s historical significance is palpable, offering a unique glimpse into the ecclesiastical and social history of Somerset.

Expansive Gardens and Natural Beauty

Spanning 14 acres, the Bishop’s Palace gardens are a designated RHS Partner garden, renowned for their outstanding horticulture. The gardens feature a variety of trees, shrubs, flowers, and well pools that inspired the city’s name. Visitors can enjoy peaceful walks along the moat, explore the arboretum, and discover the Dragon’s Lair, a natural play area designed for children. The gardens’ seasonal displays—from vibrant autumn foliage to delicate snowdrops in early spring—offer year-round beauty and tranquility.

Family-Friendly Atmosphere and Events

The Bishop’s Palace is a welcoming destination for families, with a packed calendar of themed events such as Civil War weekends, archery, Viking activities, and storytelling workshops. The Dragon’s Lair play area provides a safe and imaginative space for children to explore. Guided tours and multimedia audio guides enrich the visitor experience, offering insights tailored for both adults and families. The site also hosts open-air music, theatre performances, and wellbeing walks, creating a lively cultural hub.

Visitor Amenities and Accessibility

The Bishop’s Table café, located on site, serves locally sourced homemade food, including breakfasts, lunches, cakes, and afternoon teas, all with some of the best views in Wells. Accessibility is a priority, with level access from the main entrance through the palace and gardens, a lift to all palace floors, fully accessible toilets, and designated accessible parking spaces available by prior arrangement. Dogs on leads are welcome in the gardens, enhancing the inclusive atmosphere.

Guided Experiences and Admission

Admission includes access to the palace, gardens, chapel, and daily guided tours, as well as multimedia tours that provide historical context and stories. Tickets can be purchased online or at the ticket office, with options including day tickets, annual passes, and joint tickets with Wells Cathedral. Group discounts are available with advance booking. The palace operates seasonally with summer hours from 9:30am to 5:30pm and winter hours from 10am to 4pm.

Setting and Cultural Significance

Nestled in the heart of Wells, the Bishop’s Palace offers a serene and scenic escape adjacent to the iconic Wells Cathedral. The moat and gardens provide a tranquil environment that contrasts with the vibrant city life, making it a cherished landmark for both locals and visitors. The palace’s continuous use and preservation underscore its importance as a cultural heritage site, blending history, nature, and community engagement in a single destination.

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