Wells Attractions

Wells, situated 25mi/40km southwest of Bristol, is one of the most delightful little towns in England, and is a place in which time seems to stand still. Its population has barely doubled over the course of more than 500 years, while most of its hotels and inns are several hundred years old. Its most impressive construction is the Gothic cathedral with its imposing statue-bedecked west front. Nearby is a charming row of 14th century houses and the fortress-like Bishop's Palace. The houses of the old town are grouped around the market place, whose stalls enjoy brisk trade on Wednesdays and Saturdays.

The name Wells is derived from the springs here, which provided water to a monastery founded on this site by Ine, King of Wessex (688-about 726). In 909 it became the see of a bishop, until this was transferred to Bath by the Norman bishop John de Villula in 1088. It was brought back to Wells by Bishop Jocelin (1206-1242). Since 1244 the diocese has been known as Bath and Wells.