A Self-Guided Walking Tour of Wells' Cloisters and Cathedrals
Highlights
- Discover Wells' charming streets and delightful folklore
- Learn about heroic dragon-slaying bishop, Bishop Jocelin
- Experience Wells Cathedral's Palm Sunday processions
- Explore famous filming locations in Wells
- Unlimited, lifetime use of self-guided GPS tour
-
Duration 50-70 minutes
-
Self-guided audio tour
-
Unlimited lifetime access
-
Offline audio & maps
-
Starts at Wells Marketplace
Discover the enchanting history and folklore of Wells on this self-guided walking tour of the town's Cloisters and Cathedrals. Dive into the captivating tale of Bishop Jocelin, the dragon-slaying hero, and witness the Palm Sunday processions at Wells Cathedral. Explore the charming streets of Wells and uncover the hidden gems of this beloved filming location. With GPS playback technology, you can immerse yourself in the magic of Wells at your own pace. Don't miss out on this unique experience to uncover the secrets and stories of this historic town.
At a Glance
-
Free cancellation
-
50 minutes
-
Instant Confirmation
-
Available in English
-
Mobile voucher
-
Private Tour
-
Family friendly
Featured Reviews
Discover Wells' rich history with a self-guided audio tour, exploring cathedrals, folklore, and charming streets at your own pace.
Included
-
Get unlimited, lifetime use of this tour, before your booking date and after it
-
Offline access to audio, maps, and geodata
-
Directions to the starting point so that when you’re in the right place, the tour will start
-
Flexibility to explore at your own pace with a self-guided GPS tour
-
The virtual playback option, so you can listen to this tour like an audiobook from anywhere
Meeting Point
The tour begins in Wells Marketplace in front of the Town Hall and Visitor Information Centre. Long-term parking is available on the Upper Level of the Waitrose Car Park in Whiting Way, about a 10-minute walk from Wells Town Hall.
Market Pl, Wells BA5 2SG , United Kingdom
End Point
The tour ends at Wells Market Cross and Fountain.
10 Market Pl, Wells BA5 2RP , United Kingdom
What to expect
Town Hall
As you start the tour in front of the Town Hall, you’ll see the grand Georgian Assembly Rooms, where high society once gathered to dance and dine. This historic building still serves as the heart of civic life in Wells today.
The Crown at Wells and Anton's Bistrot
As you walk past The Crown at Wells, take in the charm of this historic inn where William Penn once addressed a large crowd. The attached Anton’s Bistrot offers a cozy spot to consider stopping for a meal later.
Wells Market Cross & Fountain
Passing by the Wells Market Cross & Fountain, you’ll learn about its significance as a historical gathering point for the local community. This area has been a focal point for markets and public events for centuries.
Penniless Porch
Walking through the Penniless Porch, you’ll hear the story behind its name, which relates to its history as a shelter for the destitute. This medieval gatehouse marks the entrance to the cathedral precincts.
As you approach Wells Cathedral, marvel at the stunning West Front with 127 medieval statues. This magnificent building has been a worship site for over 800 years and is renowned for its impressive architecture. You can pause here to hear the medieval clock chime. Its unique design features armoured knights that joust every quarter-hour, providing a delightful spectacle.
Walking along Vicars’ Close, Europe's oldest continuously occupied residential street, you’ll appreciate the well-preserved medieval architecture. This charming street has housed the cathedral’s clergy for centuries.
As you stroll past the Bishop's Palace & Gardens, you’ll see the majestic ruins of the Great Hall and the serene 14-acre gardens. This historic site has been the residence of the Bishops of Bath and Wells for over 800 years.
Bishop's Eye
Passing through the Bishop's Eye, you’ll understand its role as a fortified medieval gatehouse. Its imposing structure once protected the bishop’s residence and controlled access to the city.
Dragon Mosaic
Near the end of the tour, you’ll find the Dragon Mosaic, a tribute to the legendary dragon-slaying bishop Jocelin. This colourful artwork commemorates the local folklore and adds a whimsical touch to the city’s rich history.
The experience can be subject to change due to bad weather or unforseen circumstances. We always endeavour to give you the best possible experience.
Additional Information
-
Please bring your own smartphone and headphones
-
Public transportation options are available nearby
-
Service animals allowed
-
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
What our experts say
-
Visit the nearby Bishop's Palace for stunning gardens.
-
Check out local cafes near the Market Cross.
-
Bring a portable charger for your smartphone.
-
Explore Wells Cathedral's interior after the tour.
-
Look for filming locations from popular shows.
More About this Experience
Introduction
Embark on an unforgettable journey through the historic streets of Wells with this self-guided walking tour of the town's Cloisters and Cathedrals. Immerse yourself in the magic of Wells as you explore its medieval charm and learn about its fascinating history.What to expect?
During this tour, you can expect to discover the captivating stories of Wells, including the legend of Bishop Jocelin and the annual Palm Sunday processions at Wells Cathedral. You'll also uncover the town's connection to famous film productions and explore its hidden folklore.Who is this for?
This self-guided walking tour is perfect for history enthusiasts, culture lovers, and anyone seeking a unique and immersive experience in Wells. Whether you're a solo traveler, a couple, or a group of friends, this tour offers something for everyone to enjoy.Why book this?
Joining this self-guided tour of Wells' Cloisters and Cathedrals offers a one-of-a-kind experience that allows you to explore the town at your own pace. With GPS playback technology and lifetime access to the tour, you can delve into Wells' history and folklore whenever and wherever you choose.Good to know
As you follow this self-guided walking tour, be sure to have your headphones ready to listen to the engaging audio commentary. Take your time to soak in the sights and sounds of Wells, and don't forget to explore the charming streets and hidden gems along the way.Reviews
Travelers who have experienced this self-guided walking tour of Wells' Cloisters and Cathedrals have raved about its immersive storytelling and unique insights into the town's history. Many have praised the flexibility of the tour and the convenience of the GPS playback feature, making it a must-do experience in Wells.This is a popular product and the date you are looking for just sold out. Next available date is