Local Area
Wells Cathedral
English Cathedral and is an architectural gem of the South West of England. Built from 1175 to 1490, it boasts an impressive array of features that have earned it international recognition. The iconic West Front, with its intricate carvings and sculptures is something you won’t see every day. The ‘scissor arches’ that support the central tower are an astonishing feat of engineering and design. Inside, the Cathedral houses one of the largest collections of historic stained glass in the country, and the Wells Clock with its jousters on horseback; is a must-see. The octagonal Chapter House, with its stunning ceiling and medieval carvings, is a highlight and for book lovers, the Cathedral has one of only four chained libraries in the UK. The Cathedral offers daily guided tours (except on Sundays), giving visitors a chance to explore its rich history and architecture. Check out the website for updates on special events held at the Cathedral.
Vicars’ Close
Situated adjacent to the Cathedral, Vicars’ Close stands as the only surviving medieval street in England. Its purpose was to provide accommodation for the Vicars Choral, who continue to sing the daily services. This ancient and unique tradition is truly remarkable and serves as a testament to the rich legacy of Wells Cathedral. The medieval windows of the houses and garden archways have endured remarkably well, surviving almost entirely until the early nineteenth century, and even today, a handful of these structures still stand, serving as a living relic of the past.
Bishop’s Palace
The Bishop’s Palace & Gardens is a remarkable historical site that has served as the residence of the Bishops of Bath & Wells for more than eight centuries, dating back to the early thirteenth century. Its medieval palace is surrounded by a picturesque moat, and visitors can cross a sturdy flagstone drawbridge and pass under a grand portcullis to reach the sprawling 14-acre garden, which boasts the famous well pools that inspired Wells’ name. The Bishop’s private Chapel is also open for visitors to explore, along with the magnificent ruined Great Hall. Additionally, visitors can encounter the renowned mute swans who reside alongside the moat and ring a bell when they are hungry. For younger visitors, The Dragon’s Lair is a thrilling exploration destination. Moreover, the site offers various events, including garden activity days, historic re-enactments, concerts, talks, workshops, and family theatre performances to cater to all ages and interests.
Glastonbury Tor
If you’re interested in visiting Glastonbury you are in for a treat! Located in the southwest of England it is known for its fascinating history and spiritual significance. Glastonbury is home to several iconic landmarks and attractions, including the Glastonbury Tor, the Chalice Well, and the Abbey Ruins. Whether you’re interested in exploring the town’s history, enjoying the natural beauty of the countryside, or simply soaking up the unique atmosphere, Glastonbury is a truly special destination that we highly recommend adding to your travel itinerary!
Glastonbury Tor
The iconic landmark of Glastonbury Tor with St Michael’s Church at the summit, stands at 518 feet tall. It has been a site of spiritual significance for centuries, with legends suggesting that it was once the dwelling place of the Celtic goddess Gwyn ap Nudd. Today, the Tor is an extremely popular destination for tourists and pilgrims alike. Rarely is there ever no one on the Tor! Offering stunning views of the surrounding countryside it is well worth the short climb. Parking can be found in Drapers car-park, situated between the High Street and the Tor.
Glastonbury Abbey
Founded in the 7th century, Glastonbury Abbey is one of the oldest religious sites in the UK. King Arthur and his queen, Guinevere, are said to be buried there. Once a major center of pilgrimage, it attracted visitors from all over Europe but was destroyed during the English Reformation in the 16th century. Sadly many of its treasures were lost or destroyed. The abbey is surrounded by myths and legends, including the story of Joseph of Arimathea bringing the Holy Grail to Glastonbury.
Chalice Well
Chalice Well is a natural spring located in Glastonbury and is considered to be one of the most important holy wells in Britain, with a history dating back over 2,000 years. The water from the well is believed to have healing properties, and the site has become a popular destination for both pilgrims and tourists. Chalice Well is also extremely well known for its beautiful gardens, that are open to the public featuring a variety of plants and flowers. Keep an eye on their website for special events throughout the year.
Glastonbury Festival
Glastonbury Festival is a five-day music festival that takes place just outside of Glastonbury in June. It is one of the largest and most well-known music festivals in the world, attracting hundreds of thousands of people each year. The festival features a diverse lineup of musical acts as well as other forms of entertainment such as comedy, theater, and circus performances. The festival has a strong emphasis on environmental sustainability and social activism, with numerous initiatives and campaigns aimed at promoting these causes. Overall, the Glastonbury Festival is a unique experience for music fans and anyone looking to enjoy a fun and socially conscious event.
Cheddar Gorge
Only 20 minutes away from Godney, Cheddar Gorge is a popular destination for both tourists and locals due to its natural limestone rock formations, scenic walking trails at the top end of the gorge, and abundance of wildlife – keep an eye out for the goats! We can recommend exploring Cheddar Village, famous for its cave-aged Cheddar cheese. There are various guided tours and activities available in both the Gorge and Caves to make the most of your experience.
Cheddar Caves
The magnificent caves are a series of natural limestone caves and are a popular tourist attraction. They offer guided tours that showcase stunning rock formations, underground rivers, and prehistoric artifacts. They are also home to the famous Cheddar Man, one of Britain’s oldest complete human skeletons. If you’re interested in history and nature, a visit to Cheddar Caves is definitely worth it.
Cheddar Gorge
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