The Bishop's Palace, Wells
Somerset, England
Key facts
- Operator
- The Bishop's Palace Wells Trust
- Condition
- Intact
- Access
- Staffed, ticketed
Pinpoint
The Bishop's Palace, Wells BA5 2PD
The Bishop's Palace at Wells is the medieval palace of the Bishops of Bath and Wells, opened to the public by an independent charitable trust. Reviewers talk most about the gardens, describing sculptures, running water and ruins to wander among, with several saying they easily spent hours outside. Opinions are more mixed on the indoor experience and on service, with one visitor reporting a promoted free tour that did not run and finding the welcome efficient rather than warm.
Worth the trip
The gardens - many reviewers rate them among their favourites anywhere in the country and say they alone justify the visit.
Before you go
Reviewers note that parking is some distance away in the town rather than at the palace, so allow time for the walk in.
The gardens are what most reviewers in this sample enjoyed most, describing sculptures, the springs the city is named after, and enough to fill a couple of hours; dogs are mentioned as welcome. Inside, reviewers point to the historical displays, the chapel and undercroft, guided tours by volunteers and an audio-visual guide, with families noting the playground, dressing-up costumes and children's activities. Several mention the cafe sitting before the ticket barrier, re-entry on a day ticket, and a joint ticket with the cathedral; parking is described as some distance away. Not everyone was satisfied, with one reviewer reporting that a promoted free tour was cancelled because the guide had not arrived, and finding the gardens quiet at that time of year.
Medieval palace of the Bishops of Bath and Wells, opened to the public by an independent charitable trust.
“An interesting place with lots of historical exhibits with interesting story boards.”- Alan Holt, visitor review
Practical notes from visitors
Quoted from individual Google reviews, not verified with the operator - treat as a steer, not gospel, and check before you travel.
- Parking
- “Parking needs be done at distance but cute town to talk through.” - Vicky Nagy
- Guided tours
- “There are Guided tours daily give by expert volunteers.” - Teresa Sanders
- Facilities
- “It's a nice cafe with a go breakfast, lunch and lite bites menu also cakes and sandwiches.” - Teresa Sanders
Common questions about The Bishop's Palace, Wells
Where is The Bishop's Palace, Wells?
The Bishop's Palace, Wells is in Somerset, England, at The Bishop's Palace, Wells BA5 2PD.
Do you need a ticket to visit The Bishop's Palace, Wells?
Yes - The Bishop's Palace, Wells is a staffed, ticketed attraction run by The Bishop's Palace Wells Trust. Ticket prices and opening hours change through the year, so check the official site before travelling.
Is The Bishop's Palace, Wells dog-friendly?
Visitor reviews suggest dogs are welcome at The Bishop's Palace, Wells - one reviewer noted: “…l Bishop's Palace Gardens today and its Dog Friendly 🐕 🐩🐶🦮🐕🦺. I hope you enjoy your visit love from Ben and Bla…”. Policies can vary between parts of a site and change over time, so confirm with the operator before visiting with a dog.
What is the highlight of visiting The Bishop's Palace, Wells?
The gardens - many reviewers rate them among their favourites anywhere in the country and say they alone justify the visit.
Is The Bishop's Palace, Wells a ruin or still intact?
The Bishop's Palace, Wells is largely intact - Medieval palace of the Bishops of Bath and Wells, opened to the public by an independent charitable trust.
