Welcome to Wells Cathedral
Built between 1175 and 1490, Wells Cathedral has been described as “the most poetic of the English Cathedrals.” Situated within an easy drive from Bristol, Bath and Cardiff, and set in the medieval heart of England’s smallest city, Wells is the earliest English Cathedral to be built in the Gothic style and has an international reputation.
The current building is a significant landmark in Somerset and the South West. As well as its iconic West Front, Wells Cathedral has unique features that separate it from other English cathedrals including the beautiful ‘scissor arches’ supporting the central tower; a structure which was added in 1338 after the weight of a new spire on the top of the tower threatened to collapse the whole thing. The Cathedral houses one of the largest collections of historic stained glass in the country. Experts agree that the Jesse Window at Wells Cathedral is one of the most splendid examples of 14th century stained glass in Europe, narrowly escaping destruction during the English Civil War. The Cathedral also boasts the famous Wells Clock (which is considered to be the second oldest clock mechanism in Great Britain), the fascinating octagonal Chapter House and one of only four chained libraries in the UK.
For more information visit: https://www.wellscathedral.org.uk
Address
8 Cathedral Green,
Wells,
Somerset BA5 2UE
Tel : 01749 674483 (general enquiries) 01749 832207 (box office)
Email for group visits only: visits@wellscathedral.org.uk