Wells Cathedral: England’s First Fully Gothic Cathedral
Discover Wells Cathedral, England’s first fully Gothic cathedral, famed for its stunning west front, scissor arches, and medieval stained glass treasures.
Wells Cathedral, located in the small city of Wells, Somerset, is renowned as the first cathedral in England built entirely in the Gothic style from its foundation. Constructed from around 1175 to the mid-14th century, it showcases Early English and Decorated Gothic architecture, including its famous scissor arches that support the central tower. The cathedral’s intricately sculpted west front features nearly 300 medieval statues, and inside visitors find remarkable stained glass, vaulted ceilings, and the historic Wells Clock with its jousting knights.
A brief summary to Wells Cathedral
- Cathedral Grn, Wells, BA5 2UE, GB
- +441749674483
- Visit website
- Duration: 1 to 3 hours
- Mid ranged
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
- Monday 7 am-6 pm
- Tuesday 7 am-6 pm
- Wednesday 7 am-6 pm
- Thursday 7 am-6 pm
- Friday 7 am-6 pm
- Saturday 7 am-6 pm
- Sunday 7 am-6 pm
Local tips
- Visit the cathedral early in the day to enjoy the peaceful atmosphere and avoid peak crowds.
- Don’t miss the Wells Clock, with its unique jousting knights and quarter-hour chimes.
- Take time to explore Vicars’ Close nearby, the oldest surviving medieval street in England.
- Look closely at the intricate sculptures on the west front, many of which have been carefully restored.
- Check the cathedral’s event calendar for special services, concerts, or exhibitions during your visit.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
- Visitor Center
Getting There
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Train and Bus
Travelers can take a train to Bristol Temple Meads station, approximately 30 km from Wells, with frequent services from major cities. From Bristol, regular bus services run to Wells city center in about 45 minutes. Bus tickets typically cost £5-£8 one way.
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Car
Driving to Wells Cathedral is straightforward via the A39 and A371 roads. Parking is available in several nearby car parks, with charges around £2-£5 per hour. Note that the cathedral precinct is pedestrianized, so expect a short walk from parking areas.
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Local Bus
Local bus routes connect Wells with surrounding towns such as Shepton Mallet and Frome. Services run every 30-60 minutes, with fares around £3-£6. The bus stops are within a 10-minute walk of the cathedral.
Wells Cathedral location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Rain / Wet Weather
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Clear Skies
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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about Wells Cathedral
A Groundbreaking Gothic Masterpiece
Wells Cathedral stands as a pioneering monument in English architecture, being the first cathedral in England constructed entirely in the Gothic style from its inception around 1175. This revolutionary design was inspired by Bishop Reginald de Bohun’s visit to France and marked a departure from the Romanesque style dominant in earlier English cathedrals. The building progressed in two main phases: the first, spanning roughly 1180 to 1260, established the Early English Gothic elements seen in the nave and west front, while the second phase, from about 1285 to 1345, introduced the Decorated Gothic style evident in the eastern parts, including the Lady Chapel and chapter house.Architectural Highlights and Innovations
The cathedral’s west front is a spectacular limestone screen adorned with nearly 300 statues of saints, kings, angels, and biblical figures, creating an unparalleled theatrical façade. Inside, the structure features a unique three-level nave elevation with clustered piers and a triforium gallery of pointed arches. One of its most striking engineering feats is the scissor arches, added between 1338 and 1348 by master mason William Joy to stabilize the central tower after cracks appeared due to unstable foundations. These X-shaped arches are both a brilliant structural solution and a distinctive visual hallmark of Wells.Stained Glass and Artistic Treasures
Wells Cathedral houses some of the finest medieval stained glass in Europe, including the Jesse Window, a magnificent 14th-century masterpiece depicting the genealogy of Christ. The Lady Chapel’s stellar vault features intricate lierne ribs forming a star within a star, symbolizing Christ in Majesty. The cathedral also contains a historic clock dating from about 1390, the second oldest working clock in Britain, famous for its quarter-hour chimes accompanied by jousting knights that circle above the dial.Historical Context and Conservation
The cathedral’s construction reflected Wells’ ambition to assert its ecclesiastical status, especially after the bishop’s seat was restored in 1206. Over centuries, it has endured challenges including damage during the English Civil War and the Monmouth Rebellion. Extensive Victorian-era restorations carefully preserved the cathedral’s medieval character, notably conserving the west front’s statuary. Today, ongoing conservation efforts focus on protecting the vulnerable limestone and maintaining the cathedral’s remarkable completeness as a medieval monument.The Living Heart of Wells
Beyond its architectural and historical significance, Wells Cathedral remains an active place of worship and community gathering. It is surrounded by the medieval streets of Wells, including Vicars’ Close, England’s oldest surviving medieval street, and the bustling 900-year-old Market Place. The cathedral’s serene atmosphere, combined with its artistic and spiritual heritage, offers visitors a profound experience of medieval craftsmanship and English history.Material and Craftsmanship
Constructed primarily from locally quarried Doulting stone, a fine-grained oolitic limestone, the cathedral’s warm honey-colored façade invites close appreciation of its detailed carvings and statues. The softness of the stone allowed medieval craftsmen to achieve intricate sculptural work, contributing to the cathedral’s enduring beauty. Inside, elements such as the 1120 Cope Chest, still in use today, connect visitors with nearly a millennium of ecclesiastical tradition and artistry.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Nunney Castle
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The Matthew of Bristol
26.5 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
26.7 km
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Redcliffe Caves
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St Mary Redcliffe Church
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Capricorn Place
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Bristol Ferry
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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
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Statue of Cary Grant
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Pero's Bridge
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The Bristol Wheel
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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
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Queen Square
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The Paragon
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Watershed
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Unmissable attractions to see
Vicar's Cl
0.1 km
Step into Vicars' Close, Wells—the oldest intact medieval residential street in Europe, where history lives in every limestone house and cobbled stone.
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
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Shepton Mallet Prison
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Glastonbury Tor
8.3 km
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White Spring
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A mystical Victorian water temple at Glastonbury Tor, honoring sacred calcite-rich waters with shrines, healing pools, and timeless spiritual energy.
Chalice Well
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Discover the ancient, iron-rich red spring of Chalice Well in Glastonbury—a timeless sanctuary of healing, legend, and spiritual harmony.
Glastonbury Abbey
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Glastonbury
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St Margaret's Chapel
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Cheddar Gorge and Caves
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Explore the dramatic cliffs, ancient caves, and rich prehistoric heritage of Cheddar Gorge, Somerset’s iconic natural landmark.
Cheddar Gorge
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Cheddar Gorge Cheese Company
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Pensford Viaduct
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Maes Knoll Tump (Iron age Hill Fort)
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Essential places to dine
COR Restaurant
25.7 km
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Souk Kitchen
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Bouvardia Restaurant
26.2 km
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The Chef's Table
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BOX-E
26.5 km
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The Olive Shed
26.5 km
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Root
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A pioneering vegetable-focused restaurant in Bristol’s waterfront Cargo, blending seasonal flavors with a unique shipping container setting.
Gambas
26.5 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
26.5 km
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Harbour & Browns
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Contemporary fusion dining in stylish shipping containers with harbour views at Bristol’s vibrant Wapping Wharf.
Casa Bristol
26.5 km
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Tare Restaurant
26.5 km
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New MoOn On The Quay
26.6 km
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Don Giovanni's
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Steak of the Art
26.8 km
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Bristol General Store
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Independent Design Collective
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Rhubarb Jumble
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Home Grown Pop Up Gift Shop at Windmill Hill City Farm
26.0 km
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Fig1
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Something Elsie
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Orendo
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Discover unique ladies' fashion at Orendo, a chic clothes shop in Bristol that embodies the city's vibrant style and trends.
Zhyper
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Will's doss pit
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The Bath Independent Market
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Movement Boutique
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Mint Velvet Bristol
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
The Old Crown Inn
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Royal Oak
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The Cottage Inn, Bristol
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Slug & Lettuce - Harbourside Bristol
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Shakespeare Tavern
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Loose Cannon Cocktail Bar - Bristol
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The Architect
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Bag of Nails
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Mackenzies Bar & Kitchen
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Kongs of King Street
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Small Bar
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The Last Word Clifton Village Bristol
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The Dark Horse
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Be At One - Bath
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For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Tranquil
- Scenic
- Historic
- Unique
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Vintage Styles
- Rustic Designs
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- Sacred Sites
- Heritage Neighborhoods
- Parks & Gardens
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Sunrise Spots
- Sunset Spots
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Selfie Spots
- Architectural Shots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Locally Managed
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Day Trip
- Weekend Getaway
- Myth & Legends
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Pet Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Female Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly
