A Self-Guided Walking Tour of Wells' Cloisters and Cathedrals

4.5 (2 reviews) Bath, England
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Duration50m - 1h 10m
Free cancellationFull refund up to 24 hours before
Instant confirmationYour booking is confirmed right away
TicketMobile or paper ticket accepted
LanguagesEnglish
Private tourOnly your group will participate

Overview

Experience the magic of GPS playback on this immersive stroll through Wells. On this self-guided audio tour, you'll savour Wells' charm, where dragon slayers and medieval streets meet.

I’ll tell you about the heroic dragon-slaying bishop, Bishop Jocelin, and how the town commemorates this dramatic event every 50 years to prevent the mythical creatures’ return. At Wells Cathedral, you’ll hear about spectacular Palm Sunday processions to the cathedral, where the religious community dresses up in their cassocks, surplices, and copes. The tour ends at the Wells Market Cross & Fountain, where I’ll tell you how William Penn, the founder of Pennsylvania, once addressed 3,000 people at a nearby pub.

At the end of this tour, you’ll have discovered Wells’ charming streets and the delightful folklore hidden around every corner. I’ll also tell you how Wells is a favourite filming destination for British studios and let you in on some famous productions filmed here.

What's included

  • Get unlimited, lifetime use of this tour, before your booking date and after it
  • The virtual playback option, so you can listen to this tour like an audiobook from anywhere
  • Offline access to audio, maps, and geodata
  • Flexibility to explore at your own pace with a self-guided GPS tour
  • Directions to the starting point so that when you’re in the right place, the tour will start

What to expect

  1. Pass by
    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.
  2. Pass by
    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.
  3. Pass by
    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.
  4. Pass by
    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.
  5. Wells Cathedral
    Pass by
    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.
  6. Vicars' Close
    Pass by
    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.
  7. The Bishop's Palace And Gardens
    Pass by
    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.
  8. Pass by
    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.
  9. Pass by
    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.

Meeting and pickup

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.

End point

The tour ends at Wells Market Cross and Fountain.

Additional information

  • Service animals allowed
  • Public transportation options are available nearby
  • Suitable for all physical fitness levels
  • Please bring your own smartphone and headphones

Cancellation policy

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

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4.5 (2)
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