Vicars' Close
Europe's oldest intact medieval street, where cathedral singers have lived and sung for nearly 700 years.
Vicars' Close is Europe's oldest intact medieval residential street, built beginning in 1348 in Wells, Somerset. This remarkable cul-de-sac of 27 Grade I listed limestone houses was constructed to house the Vicars Choral—cathedral singers who performed divine services eight times daily. Connected to Wells Cathedral by the historic Chain Gate, the street remains inhabited by cathedral staff and continues its original purpose after nearly 700 years. The picturesque cobbled street features a chapel, library, and communal hall, all preserved with their medieval character intact despite careful Victorian-era restorations.
A brief summary to Vicar's Cl
- Wells, GB
- Duration: 0.75 to 2 hours
- Free
-
Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
Local tips
- Visit during weekday mornings to experience the street's quieter character and potentially hear the Vicars Choral rehearsing in the cathedral. Weekends attract more visitors, making early visits more peaceful.
- Allow time to examine the architectural details: the narrowing perspective toward the chapel, the distinctive chimney arrangements, and the subtle optical effects created by the aligned houses and cobbled surface.
- Check ahead for guided tour availability and house openings, as visitor access to interior spaces is limited and scheduled. The Chain Gate bridge connecting to Wells Cathedral provides an atmospheric passage between the close and the cathedral.
- Bring a camera for architectural photography, but be respectful of residents' privacy. The street's medieval character and proportions create compelling compositions, particularly in soft morning or late afternoon light.
- Combine your visit with exploration of Wells Cathedral and the surrounding medieval town center. The close is best understood as part of Wells' broader ecclesiastical and urban heritage landscape.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Information Boards
- Seating Areas
- Visitor Center
Getting There
-
Walking from Wells City Centre
From the Market Place in Wells town centre, walk toward the Cathedral Green, approximately 5–10 minutes on foot. Vicars' Close is directly adjacent to Wells Cathedral, accessible via the Cathedral Green. The street is a pedestrian-only cul-de-sac with no vehicle access. This is the most atmospheric approach, allowing you to experience the medieval urban fabric of Wells before arriving at the close.
-
Public Transport via Bus
Several regional bus services serve Wells town centre, with stops near the Market Place and Cathedral area. Journey times from Bath are approximately 30–40 minutes; from Glastonbury approximately 20–30 minutes. Once in Wells, follow walking directions to the Cathedral Green. Bus services operate throughout the day with varying frequency depending on the route and season. No direct bus service reaches Vicars' Close itself, as the street is pedestrian-only.
-
Driving and Parking
Drive to Wells town centre and use one of several public car parks within 5–10 minutes' walk of the Cathedral Green. The closest options include the Cathedral Car Park and Market Place Car Park. Vicars' Close itself has no vehicle access or parking. Parking costs vary by location and duration; expect to pay approximately £1–3 for 2–3 hours. From the car park, walk to the Cathedral Green and access the close on foot.
-
Cycling
Wells is accessible by regional cycle routes. Bike parking is available near the Cathedral Green and town centre. The final approach to Vicars' Close must be completed on foot, as the street is pedestrian-only. Journey times from Bath or Glastonbury by bike are approximately 45–60 minutes, depending on route and fitness level.
Vicar's Cl location weather suitability
-
Any Weather
-
Mild Temperatures
Discover more about Vicar's Cl
A Street Built for Song and Service
Vicars' Close emerged from a vision of communal living and spiritual devotion. In 1348, Bishop Ralph of Shrewsbury initiated construction of this remarkable street, built upon land granted by Walter de Hulle, a canon of Wells Cathedral. The purpose was clear and purposeful: to house the Vicars Choral, a dedicated group of clergy responsible for singing the cathedral's divine services eight times daily—a tradition dating back to the 12th century. Before this close was established, the vicars lived scattered throughout the town, succumbing to worldly distractions. The creation of Vicars' Close provided them with a dedicated, sheltered community where they could focus entirely on their sacred musical duties. Construction proceeded methodically, with the Vicars' Hall and its arched gateway completed by 1363, establishing the street's southern anchor. The street itself stretches 140 meters in length, lined with terraced limestone houses on either side of a central cobbled way. Originally comprising 42 dwellings, the close now contains 27 houses, each a Grade I listed building of exceptional historical importance. The architectural design was deliberately conceived to foster community and spiritual connection—the street subtly narrows toward the chapel at its northern end, an optical effect that draws the eye and the spirit toward the sacred space.Medieval Ingenuity and Domestic Life
The original houses were modest but thoughtfully designed, each built on two floors with a fireplace on each level. Water came from two communal wells positioned at either end of the street, though lead pipes were later installed to bring water directly into homes. Washing facilities and latrines were positioned outside, reflecting medieval sanitation practices. The distinctive chimney shafts that now characterize the roofline were added a century after initial construction, as were the walled gardens that provide privacy and greenery to residents. These incremental improvements demonstrate how the close evolved to meet changing needs while maintaining its essential medieval character. The Vicars' Hall itself functioned as the administrative and social heart of the community. Within its walls lay the Chequer, where the Receiver—a designated vicar—collected rents from tenants throughout the city whose payments supported the cathedral clergy. The adjacent Muniment Room stored crucial documents recording land leases and property rights, while the Treasury below safeguarded the vicars' vestments and ceremonial garments. This integrated system of communal dining, administration, and storage created a largely self-sufficient residential precinct.Centuries of Preservation and Transformation
Vicars' Close has endured remarkable transformations while retaining its medieval essence. In 1459, Thomas Beckington constructed the Chain Gate—a covered bridge connecting the Vicars' Hall directly to Wells Cathedral, allowing the vicars convenient passage to their daily services. The 17th century saw some houses leased to 'strangers,' introducing external residents to the close's previously exclusive community. The 1840s brought systematic restoration under architect Benjamin Ferrey, who respected the medieval fabric while introducing Victorian improvements. The 1960s witnessed another restoration phase emphasizing historical accuracy, and recent decades have seen ongoing conservation efforts, including substantial funding from the National Lottery Heritage Fund announced in 2023 to address structural issues, improve accessibility, and create new visitor experiences.Cultural Significance and Living Heritage
Vicars' Close holds exceptional status as Europe's oldest surviving residential street still used for its original purpose. The Vicars Choral tradition continues unbroken, with cathedral singers still rehearsing and performing within the close. This living connection to medieval practice makes the street far more than a museum piece—it remains a functioning community bound by centuries of musical and spiritual tradition. The street has attracted scholarly attention and cultural interest, serving as a filming location for notable productions including the 1972 film adaptation of The Canterbury Tales. Victorian architects and designers, including the renowned William Burges and J.H. Parker, recognized the close's architectural significance and contributed restoration work that respected its character while adding their own artistic vision.A Street Transformed for Discovery
Contemporary conservation initiatives are opening Vicars' Close to public understanding while protecting the privacy of current residents. Select houses, including number 22, are being prepared as visitor spaces offering immersive experiences of medieval domestic life. The project emphasizes music as a central interpretive theme, exploring both historic liturgical traditions and contemporary artistic responses to the close's unique heritage. Guided tours will reveal previously hidden spaces—administrative rooms, storage areas, and communal facilities—that illuminate how the vicars organized their lives and supported their sacred work. This careful balance between preservation, public access, and respect for current residents ensures that Vicars' Close continues evolving while honoring its irreplaceable historical character.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Nunney Castle
18.5 km
A French-influenced medieval fortress where a Hundred Years' War veteran built his legacy in stone.
The Matthew of Bristol
26.4 km
Explore Bristol's maritime heritage aboard The Matthew, a historic ship offering breathtaking views and engaging tours of the city's vibrant harbor.
Prince Street Bridge
26.6 km
A working Victorian swing bridge over Bristol’s Floating Harbour, connecting the city centre with the Cumberland Road area and offering quiet views of boats and quays.
Redcliffe Caves
26.6 km
Explore the enchanting Redcliffe Caves in Bristol, a breathtaking tourist attraction filled with stunning rock formations and vibrant art installations.
St Mary Redcliffe Church
26.6 km
Medieval Gothic masterpiece and eight centuries of Bristol's maritime heritage in stone
Capricorn Place
26.6 km
Explore the architectural beauty of Capricorn Place in Bristol, a hidden gem that showcases the city's rich heritage and stunning landscapes.
Bristol Ferry
26.7 km
Discover the scenic beauty of Bristol from the water with Bristol Ferry, a delightful ferry service showcasing the city's stunning waterfront and rich history.
Millennium Square
26.7 km
Experience the lively atmosphere and cultural richness of Millennium Square, Bristol's premier urban park and social hub.
Statue of Cary Grant
26.7 km
Celebrate Hollywood legend Cary Grant with a lifelike bronze statue in Bristol’s vibrant Millennium Square, capturing his timeless charm and local roots.
Pero's Bridge
26.7 km
A striking pedestrian bridge honoring an enslaved man's memory and Bristol's complex past with the slave trade.
The Bristol Wheel
26.7 km
Discover breathtaking panoramic views of Bristol from The Bristol Wheel, an iconic attraction that offers a unique perspective of the city's vibrant skyline.
Bristol Aquarium
26.8 km
Discover the enchanting underwater world at Bristol Aquarium, where marine life thrives in captivating exhibits and interactive experiences for all ages.
Queen Square
26.8 km
Experience the serene beauty and historical charm of Queen Square, a stunning green oasis in the heart of Bristol, perfect for relaxation and cultural exploration.
The Paragon
26.8 km
Elegant Georgian townhouse in Clifton with exclusive gardens and stunning views of Bristol’s iconic landmarks.
Watershed
26.9 km
Experience Bristol's vibrant arts scene at Watershed, where cinema, food, and culture come together in a breathtaking riverside setting.
Unmissable attractions to see
Wells Cathedral
0.1 km
Discover Wells Cathedral, England’s pioneering Gothic masterpiece with its iconic West Front, stunning scissor arches, and rich medieval heritage.
Wells Market
0.2 km
Experience the vibrant charm of Wells Market, a historic twice-weekly hub of local produce, crafts, and community events in the heart of Somerset.
The Bishop's Palace & Gardens
0.3 km
Explore 800 years of medieval history, stunning gardens, and tranquil moats at The Bishop's Palace & Gardens in the heart of Wells.
Shepton Mallet Prison
7.4 km
Step inside England’s oldest prison for immersive tours, escape rooms, and ghost hunts steeped in over 400 years of history and haunting tales.
Glastonbury Tor
8.4 km
An iconic hill of myth, legend, and breathtaking views, Glastonbury Tor invites you to step into England’s mystical past and spiritual heart.
White Spring
8.7 km
A mystical Victorian water temple at Glastonbury Tor, honoring sacred calcite-rich waters with shrines, healing pools, and timeless spiritual energy.
Chalice Well
8.7 km
Discover the ancient, iron-rich red spring of Chalice Well in Glastonbury—a timeless sanctuary of healing, legend, and spiritual harmony.
Glastonbury Abbey
8.8 km
Explore the evocative ruins of Glastonbury Abbey, where history, myth, and spirituality converge in England’s richest medieval monastery.
Glastonbury
8.8 km
Glastonbury: Where ancient legends, spiritual mystique, and vibrant festival culture converge in the heart of Somerset.
St Margaret's Chapel
9.0 km
A serene medieval chapel and almshouses in Glastonbury, offering a peaceful retreat steeped in pilgrimage history and artistic spirit.
Cheddar Gorge and Caves
11.5 km
Explore the dramatic cliffs, ancient caves, and rich prehistoric heritage of Cheddar Gorge, Somerset’s iconic natural landmark.
Cheddar Gorge
11.6 km
Explore England’s largest limestone gorge with stunning cliffs, ancient caves, and rich prehistoric heritage in the heart of Somerset.
Cheddar Gorge Cheese Company
11.8 km
Discover authentic, award-winning Cheddar cheese crafted in the heart of Cheddar Gorge by a family-owned artisan dairy.
Pensford Viaduct
18.8 km
Explore the majestic 19th-century Pensford Viaduct, a stunning historic railway bridge soaring above the scenic Chew Valley in Somerset.
Maes Knoll Tump (Iron age Hill Fort)
20.7 km
Explore Maes Knoll Tump, an ancient Iron Age hill fort near Bristol, blending prehistoric earthworks with panoramic views and wartime history.
Essential places to dine
COR Restaurant
25.6 km
Vibrant Mediterranean small plates served in a stylish, intimate setting at Bedminster’s acclaimed COR Restaurant.
Souk Kitchen
25.7 km
Experience vibrant Middle Eastern and Mediterranean mezze dishes in a lively Southville setting, perfect for sharing and savoring bold flavours.
Bouvardia Restaurant
26.2 km
Experience Bath’s finest fine dining with exquisite British and European cuisine in an elegant, luxurious setting at Bouvardia Restaurant.
The Chef's Table
26.3 km
An intimate fine dining experience in Bristol’s historic docks, serving innovative modern British cuisine with expert wine pairings.
BOX-E
26.4 km
A tiny 14-seat restaurant in Bristol’s Wapping Wharf shipping containers, serving inventive Modern British tasting menus and seasonal dishes in an intimate, industrial-chic setting.
The Olive Shed
26.4 km
Mediterranean tapas and seafood with stunning harbour views in a cozy, waterside Bristol setting.
Root
26.4 km
A pioneering vegetable-focused restaurant in Bristol’s waterfront Cargo, blending seasonal flavors with a unique shipping container setting.
Gambas
26.4 km
A vibrant Spanish tapas bar in a harbourside shipping container, serving excellent seafood and classic small plates with great views over Bristol Harbour.
The Pump House
26.4 km
Historic waterfront gastropub in Bristol’s Hotwells, blending heritage architecture with fine British dining and scenic harbour views.
Harbour & Browns
26.4 km
Contemporary fusion dining in stylish shipping containers with harbour views at Bristol’s vibrant Wapping Wharf.
Casa Bristol
26.4 km
Refined Italian cuisine with a contemporary twist in Bristol’s historic Redcliffe harbourside, blending tradition and innovation.
Tare Restaurant
26.4 km
Experience vibrant modern European cuisine in a stylish, relaxed setting overlooking Bristol’s Floating Harbour.
New MoOn On The Quay
26.5 km
Eclectic tapas and global flavors served in a quirky riverside setting with garden charm and inclusive menus in Bristol’s Floating Harbour.
Don Giovanni's
26.6 km
Experience authentic Italian flavors and warm hospitality in the heart of Bristol’s historic Redcliffe district at Don Giovanni's.
Steak of the Art
26.6 km
A bold Bristol steakhouse where art, design and expertly cooked meat come together in a vibrant Harbourside setting.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Bristol General Store
25.5 km
Independent boutique celebrating local creativity and curated global design in Bedminster.
Independent Design Collective
25.6 km
Discover unique artisan gifts and crafts from Bristol’s vibrant local artists at Independent Design Collective in Southville.
Rhubarb Jumble
25.7 km
Discover timeless vintage fashion and unique home treasures in the heart of Bristol’s vibrant Southville neighborhood.
Home Grown Pop Up Gift Shop at Windmill Hill City Farm
25.9 km
Discover unique handmade gifts by Bristol artists at the vibrant Home Grown Pop Up Gift Shop within Windmill Hill City Farm.
Fig1
26.3 km
Discover Scandinavian-inspired homewares and unique gifts at this independent Bristol gem, where clean lines meet creative curation in the heart of Wapping Wharf.
Something Elsie
26.4 km
Discover vibrant 80s and 90s vintage fashion, dazzling jewellery, and quirky gifts in Bristol’s colorful Something Elsie shop at Cargo 2.
Orendo
26.6 km
Discover unique ladies' fashion at Orendo, a chic clothes shop in Bristol that embodies the city's vibrant style and trends.
Zhyper
26.7 km
Trendy threads and accessories in Bristol's Harbourside hub, where personal style meets waterfront vibrancy and urban creativity.
Will's doss pit
26.9 km
Dive into Bristol's quirky underbelly at Will's Doss Pit, where vintage treasures and bohemian finds await in historic Queen Square.
my a2space
26.9 km
A compact Harbourside shop showcasing locally made prints, gifts and artisan wares from Bristol’s creative community.
The Bath Independent Market
27.0 km
Discover Bath’s vibrant independent makers beneath the iconic glass roof of Green Park Station every Sunday.
Movement Boutique
27.1 km
Discover curated designer fashion, jewellery, and homewares in the stylish heart of Clifton, Bristol’s charming historic district.
About Face
27.1 km
Discover curated gifts and artisanal treasures in Clifton's charming village heart, where unique finds meet personal service in a cozy Bristol gem.
Alices Secret Empourium
27.1 km
Uncover Bristol's quirk-filled gift haven on Park Street, where eclectic treasures and whimsical wonders await every curious explorer.
Mint Velvet Bristol
27.1 km
Discover relaxed glamour and personalized style at Mint Velvet Bristol, a chic ladies' boutique in Clifton's fashionable Regent Street.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Royal Oak
25.9 km
A beloved Nailsea pub blending traditional charm with lively sports and hearty fare in a welcoming community setting.
The Old Crown Inn
25.9 km
A charming traditional British pub near Bath offering hearty fare, real ales, and a warm, welcoming atmosphere in historic Kelston.
The Cottage Inn, Bristol
26.2 km
Historic harbourside pub offering modern British classics, craft ales, and scenic waterfront vibes in the heart of Bristol.
Slug & Lettuce - Harbourside Bristol
26.7 km
Bristol harbourside cocktail haven with 2-for-1 drinks, bottomless brunches, and waterfront terrace vibes for unforgettable nights out.
Shakespeare Tavern
26.7 km
Waterside Bristol pub pouring cask ales, pub classics, and community cheer in a dog-friendly haven with garden vibes.
Loose Cannon Cocktail Bar - Bristol
26.7 km
Quirky harbourside haven blending pop culture cocktails, local art, and Bristol's playful vibe in a waterfront independent gem.
The Architect
26.7 km
Art deco café-bar on Bristol's Floating Harbour: coffees by day, cocktails by night, with terrace views of ferries and quayside life.
Steinbeck and Shaw
26.7 km
Bristol's graffiti-glazed cocktail haven where masterclasses, happy hours, and late-night vibes collide in historic style.
Bag of Nails
26.8 km
A quirky Bristol pub where hand-drawn art, local ales, and friendly cats create an unforgettable and cozy atmosphere.
Mackenzies Bar & Kitchen
26.8 km
A relaxed, all-day cafe-bar in the W Shed offering casual meals and drinks beside Bristol’s harbourside.
Kongs of King Street
26.9 km
A lively Bristol bar blending arcade games, craft beers, and vibrant music for unforgettable nights on King Street.
Small Bar
26.9 km
Bristol's compact craft beer gem: sample microbrew masterpieces in rustic intimacy amid King Street's historic buzz.
The Last Word Clifton Village Bristol
27.0 km
Quirky Clifton cocktail haven spanning three cozy floors, perfect for masterful mixes and intimate evenings in Bristol's upscale village.
The Quadrant
27.1 km
Cosy Clifton wine bar with a curated drinks list, small plates and buzzy window seats in the heart of the village.
The Dark Horse
27.1 km
Discover Bath’s moody, intimate cocktail bar with inventive drinks, warm service, and a hidden underground charm.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Romantic
- Tranquil
- Scenic
- Unique
- Casual
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Vintage Styles
- Rustic Designs
- Minimalist Designs
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- Heritage Neighborhoods
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Panoramas
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Architectural Shots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Protected Area
- Locally Managed
- Car-Free Access
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Day Trip
- Myth & Legends
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
