Things to do in Wells
Even though it is one of the smallest cities in England, Wells is a top choice for a great day out in Somerset!
Things to do in Wells: Attractions and Historic Buildings
There are loads of beautiful medieval buildings to see in Wells, sometimes you can feel like you have just stepped into the set of a Harry Potter film!
The mighty Wells Cathedral is a must, a visit to the Cathedral is free of charge however as English Cathedrals receive no funding from the government or the Church of England, they are very grateful for all donations. The Cathedral Green in which the is set makes a great place to sit and have a coffee or a picnic and let the children have a run around.
The majestic Bishops Palace is a great place to explore, with ancient buildings and beautiful gardens, surrounded by a moat. The moat is home to a couple of swans who were rehomed on the Palace moat by Swan Rescue South Wales, these swans have quickly become local celebrities and you can keep up to date with the swan’s antics on Swan Cam. The tradition of swans on the moat dates back to the 1850s when Bishop Eden's daughter first taught swans to ring a bell at the Gatehouse for food. The 14 acres of gardens are a perfect place to find some peace and tranquillity or if you are visiting with little ones, then you must visit the Dragon’s Lair, a fantastic interactive play and discovery area for children.
Alongside the Cathedral and Bishops Palace, there are several other historic buildings within the City Centre which you cannot miss. Vicar’s Close is a 14th century residential street with several Grade 1 listed buildings. St Cuthbert’s Church dates back to 13th century and has often been mistaken for the Cathedral, the grounds of St Cuthbert’s Church are a nice spot for a picnic.
Things to do in Wells: Shopping
Mendip Markets
At the top of Wells High Street is a picturesque Market Square, Wells Market run by Mendip District Council take place here on Wednesdays and Saturdays. Alongside the markets, there are a number of shopping areas, boasting some really great independent shops that are well worth a visit.
Head down the High Street to Queens Street where you will find a lovely delicatessen, independent shops, including a toy store and an amazing retro emporium perfect for gift shopping.
Queens Street
On Queens Street you will find Daniel’s Café & Sandwich Bar a great locally run café where you can eat in or take out, they also deliver. It’s really good value, with a great selection of hot and cold food on offer. Last week the children and I got take-out lunch from Daniel’s and went to picnic at St Cuthbert’s Church. You can pick up a meal deal for just £3.50 which includes a sandwich, drink and snack. Oh and you must not miss their cupcakes, almost too pretty to eat!
Market Street Courtyard
Just off Queens Street is the Market Street Courtyard, a really pretty spot for shopping, lunching and loafing! Here you will find the perfect complement of independent stores a haberdashery, a florist, a jewellery and accessory store, all alongside Sage and Bumble a gorgeous gift shop.
The Wells branch of LOAF:Bakehouse can be found in the Market Street Courtyard, a cosy yet cool family friendly café with small children’s play area. The name says it all, LOAF specialise in baking and their cinnamon buns certainly receive a lot of praise! Alongside fabulous baking, there is a superb breakfast menu and daily specials to choose from. LOAF have recently introduced a new range of t-shirts encouraging us all to show our support for local businesses.
Countryside Walks around Wells
There are a number of places you can walk from the city centre, the Swan Walks offer a series of self-guided walks which can be downloaded.
Things to do in Wells: Parks and Play areas
The closest to the centre, situated next to The Bishops Palace is Wells Recreation Ground, you will find a fantastic play area perfect for pre-school to junior age groups with swings, a roundabout and a massive wooden fort. The play area is very spacious but enclosed so it feels very safe and secure for your children to run around. There are wooden tables and benches to sit at and chill with a picnic while the kids let off some steam. The play area is set in a larger recreation ground with space to play ball games, there is also some outdoor gym equipment if you are that way inclined!
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