The smallest city in England has plenty to offer visitors and yet it remains off the beaten track(Image: (Image: Getty))

England’s smallest city, Wells, may be small in size but is brimming with historical charm and architectural wonders. It is renowned for its splendid buildings and charming cobblestone streets, offering a perfect backdrop for an enchanting stroll.

Named after the natural springs located at the Bishop’s Palace, Wells lies conveniently close to Bristol, Bath, and Cardiff, nestled beside the River Brue in Somerset. Despite often being overlooked by tourists, those who discover Wells find themselves rewarded with a rich tapestry of history.

With an impressive combination of historic significance, artistic splendour, and architectural innovation, Wells Cathedral stands as a paramount attraction within this winsome city. Recognised as one of the most striking Gothic cathedrals in Britain, it boasts outstanding architecture and medieval finesse.

Spanning from 1175 to 1490, the construction of Wells Cathedral has led to its reputation as “the most poetic of the English Cathedrals.”

Beyond the famed West Front, Wells Cathedral intrigues with singular features that set it apart from other British cathedrals. This includes the stunning ‘scissor arches,’ which reinforce the central tower, reports Somerset Live.

The Cathedral is a treasure trove of historic stained glass, boasting one of the largest collections in the country. The Jesse Window at Wells Cathedral, hailed by experts as one of the most splendid examples of 14th century stained glass in Europe, narrowly escaped destruction during the English Civil War.

Moreover, the Cathedral is home to the famous Wells Clock, thought to be the second oldest clock mechanism in Great Britain. It also shelters the fascinating octagonal Chapter House and one of only four chained libraries in the UK.

Other must-see attractions in this picturesque city include The Bishop’s Palace and Gardens in Wells, which has served as the residence of the Bishops of Bath and Wells for over 800 years. This awe-inspiring medieval palace is now open for public exploration.

It provides an excellent family day out in Somerset with a packed calendar of events throughout the year, free guided walks, outdoor music and theatre, garden workshops and more. A piece of cake with afternoon tea at the ever-popular Bishop’s Table café is always a delight.

Since the 1800s, the palace’s moat has been inhabited by mute swans, with the tradition of swans on the moat believed to date back to the 1850s. Legend suggests that a Bishop’s daughter may have first trained the swans to ring a bell at the Gatehouse when they were hungry.

Today, two swan bells are installed, with ropes for the swans to pull to signal for food.

There are 14 acres of breathtaking RHS Partner gardens to explore, including the beautiful well pools from which the city takes its name, the medieval Palace building equipped with multimedia audio visual guides, Dragon’s Lair play area, guided tours, children’s trails and workshops, and a café offering the best views in Wells.

Adjacent to the Cathedral is Vicars’ Close, believed to be the only complete medieval street left in England. This significant landmark was designed to provide communal accommodation for the Vicars Choral, who performed daily worship within the Cathedral.

This centuries-old tradition continues today and is a unique and much valued part of life at Wells Cathedral.

The houses of the close, all Grade I listed, were built in the 14th century under the direction of Bishop Ralph of Shrewsbury, and the iconic chimneys were added in the 15th century. Originally, 42 houses were built (one per vicar), but some were combined following the Reformation when vicars were allowed to marry.

Today, the Close comprises 27 residences, a chapel, library, treasury and muniment room. There is also a dining hall connected to the Cathedral by a covered walkway, the Chain Gate Bridge.

The current occupants still include all twelve men of the Vicars Choral, plus the organists and virgers. Vicars Choral have remained at the heart of life at Wells Cathedral since the 1100s and are now recognised as a world-class choir.

For food lovers, Wells is home to a historic market in Wells Market Place. This vibrant square, surrounded by stunning historical architecture, offers a perfect glimpse into the everyday life of Wells that has remained virtually unchanged for centuries.

Today, a lively market takes place twice a week – on Wednesdays and Saturdays – showcasing local produce and goods. The square also hosts a larger street food festival annually, with the next Wells Food Festival scheduled for Sunday, 12 October 2025.

Additionally, a funfair is held twice a year, adding to the dynamic atmosphere of the market.

Wells also prides itself on an array of independent bookshops and boutiques, as well as antique and vintage shops, ensuring hours of browsing pleasure.