The Bishop's Palace & Gardens, Wells
Explore 800 years of medieval history, stunning gardens, and tranquil moats at The Bishop's Palace & Gardens in the heart of Wells.
The Bishop's Palace in Wells, Somerset, is a magnificent medieval episcopal residence with over 800 years of history. Surrounded by a moat and ramparts, it features a gatehouse, a ruined great hall, an elegant chapel, and 14 acres of RHS partner gardens. Visitors can explore the historic palace, stroll along the defensive walls with panoramic views, and enjoy the tranquil gardens with well pools and a natural play area.
A brief summary to The Bishop's Palace & Gardens
- The Bishop's Palace, Wells, BA5 2PD, GB
- +441749988111
- Visit website
- Duration: 2 to 4 hours
- Mid ranged
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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
- Book combined tickets with Wells Cathedral for savings and a fuller historic experience.
- Visit the moat to watch the famous swans ring a bell for feeding, a charming spectacle.
- Wear comfortable shoes to explore the 14 acres of gardens and the ramparts with steps.
- Join guided tours available daily during the summer for detailed insights into the palace and gardens.
- Check the event schedule for special family workshops, storytelling, and outdoor theatre performances.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Trash Bins
- Information Boards
- Visitor Center
Getting There
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Bus
Take the local bus service from Wells Bus Station to Market Place, a 10-15 minute journey. The Bishop's Palace is a short walk from Market Place. Buses run frequently during the day. Tickets cost approximately £2-£4.
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Train and Walk
Arrive by train at Castle Cary Station, about 20 km from Wells. From there, take a taxi or bus to Wells city center, approximately 30 minutes. The palace is a 5-minute walk from Wells city center.
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Car
Drive to Wells city center with parking available at nearby public car parks such as the Market Place car park. Parking fees typically range from £2 to £5 for a few hours. The palace is accessible on foot from the car parks.
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Walking
If staying in Wells, the palace is easily reached on foot from most central accommodations. The terrain is mostly flat with some steps on the ramparts. Wheelchair access is available to most areas, with ramps and accessible toilets.
The Bishop's Palace & Gardens 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 The Bishop's Palace & Gardens
Medieval Origins and Architectural Grandeur
The Bishop's Palace in Wells dates back to the early 13th century, built under Bishop Jocelin around 1210 as a grand residence adjacent to Wells Cathedral. The central range, remarkable for its two-room depth and vaulted lower floor, was originally two storeys high with large windows illuminating the principal rooms above. The palace's architecture was revolutionary for its time, with battlemented parapets and corner turrets giving it a castle-like appearance that symbolized episcopal power and authority. Over the centuries, additions by successive bishops, including the chapel and great hall built by Bishop Burnell in the late 13th century, enriched the complex's historic fabric.Defensive Features and the Moat
In the mid-14th century, Bishop Ralph secured a royal licence to surround the palace precinct with a defensive wall, gatehouse, towers, and a moat fed by natural springs. This moat, now home to a famous colony of mute swans trained to ring a bell for feeding, adds to the site's unique charm. The ramparts offer spectacular views across Wells, including sights of Glastonbury Tor and the Mendip Hills, providing visitors with a scenic and historic perspective of the city and its surroundings.Gardens and Natural Beauty
The palace is set within 14 acres of beautifully maintained gardens, which are an RHS partner site. These gardens include the well pools that give Wells its name, an arboretum, and a natural play area known as The Dragon’s Lair. The gardens have evolved over centuries, with 19th-century bishops focusing on their enhancement. Today, they offer a tranquil escape with a variety of trees, shrubs, and flowers, as well as water features and peaceful spots for relaxation.Interior Highlights and Historical Legacy
Inside the palace, visitors can explore the vaulted Undercroft, the Long Gallery, and the Bishop’s Chapel, an exquisite example of Early English Decorated Gothic architecture. The chapel features medieval stone tracery, stained glass rescued from French churches, and finely carved vaulted ceilings. The ruins of the great hall, once one of England’s largest secular halls, stand as a romantic reminder of the palace’s medieval grandeur. The palace also houses historical collections and exhibits reflecting its 800-year episcopal heritage.Visitor Experience and Events
The Bishop’s Palace offers year-round access with seasonal opening hours and a range of admission options including day tickets and annual passes. Guided tours led by expert volunteers provide in-depth insights into the palace’s architecture, history, and gardens. The site hosts family-friendly events, storytelling, wellbeing walks, and outdoor theatre, making it a vibrant cultural hub. Facilities include a café with views over the gardens and the moat, accessible toilets, and a gift shop.Symbolism and Community Role
Beyond its architectural and historical significance, the Bishop’s Palace remains a symbol of the enduring ecclesiastical presence in Wells. Its moat and ramparts reflect medieval concerns for security and status, while its gardens and public programs emphasize community engagement and heritage preservation. The palace stands as a living monument to the bishops’ role in local history, culture, and the spiritual life of the city.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
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The Matthew of Bristol
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Prince Street Bridge
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Redcliffe Caves
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St Mary Redcliffe Church
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Bristol Ferry
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Millennium Square
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Statue of Cary Grant
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Unmissable attractions to see
Wells Market
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Wells Cathedral
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Vicar's Cl
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Shepton Mallet Prison
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Glastonbury Tor
8.2 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
8.5 km
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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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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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
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Souk Kitchen
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The Chef's Table
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BOX-E
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The Olive Shed
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Root
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Gambas
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Harbour & Browns
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The Pump House
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Casa Bristol
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Tare Restaurant
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New MoOn On The Quay
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Don Giovanni's
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Steak of the Art
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
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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
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Fig1
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Something Elsie
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Orendo
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Zhyper
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The Bath Independent Market
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Will's doss pit
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Urban Outfitters
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My Small World Toy Store
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
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Nightclubs & after hour spots
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OMG
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Labyrinth Bar & Nightclub
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For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Tranquil
- Scenic
- Relaxing
- Historic
- Unique
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Vintage Styles
- Rustic Designs
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- Sacred Sites
- Parks & Gardens
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Panoramas
- Waterfront
- Sunset Spots
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Selfie Spots
- Architectural Shots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Eco-Friendly
- Low Impact
- Protected Area
- Locally Managed
- Public-Transport Accessible
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Nature Escape
- Day Trip
- Weekend Getaway
- Festival / Event Nearby
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
