Wells Cathedral

A few steps beyond the chancel a staircase (13th/15th century), decorated with figures of monks bearing columns, leads from the cathedral to the chapterhouse (1360), an octagonal room of consummate perfection whose palm-like vaulting is borne on a single central pier. The surrounding bench was designed for meetings of the members of the cathedral's chapter.

The 15th century cloister is in the Perpendicular style.

The interior of Wells Cathedral triple-aisled basilica is simple. A unique feature in the crossing are the double pointed inverted arches. This unorthodox solution was found in 1338 to stop the central tower from collapsing. The capitals in the southwest arm of the transept are particularly charming, with depictions such as a bald-headed man, a man with toothache, a thorn-extractor, and a moral tale: fruit thieves being caught and punished. In the gallery there are numerous statues of bishops (about 1230) and their tombs (14th century). The chancel shows evidence of late Gothic influence. The unusual carvings, including depictions of animals playing musical instruments, on the misericords of the choir stalls are impressive. The large stained glass Golden Window at the end of the chancel depicts the Tree of Jesse, Jesus' line of descent. A famous astronomical clock, constructed in 1392, can be seen in the northwest transept. When it strikes on the hour mounted knights ride into action. Below this is "Christ's Resurrection" by Jacob Epstein (1880-1959).

This row of 40 14th century houses built to accommodate Wells Cathedral clergy has been marvelously retained and is still inhabited by church employees and students of theology. The chimneys were not built until 1470. The houses are linked to the cathedral via a bridge.