Attraction in Wells
Wells Cathedral
Chain Gate
Cathedral Green
Wells
Somerset
BA5 2UE
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Wells began as a holy place, taking its name from the springs in what are now the Bishop's Palace grounds. The church was built near the wells in 705 and the present cathedral building was begun in 1180. It is one of the most impressive of the English cathedrals and has survived eight centuries with all its associated buildings still around it - The Chapter House, Vicars' Hall, the cloisters and the unique Vicars' Close - all treasures from the thirteenth to fifteenth centuries.
The West Front is one of its great glories. The magnificent west façade, built between 1209 and 1250, is 100 feet high and 150 feet wide - exactly twice the width of the Nave which it terminates. There are niches for more than 500 figure sculptures, most of them larger than lifesize. Wells’ west front is unique in retaining almost 300 of its original medieval statues.
Details
Groups/Parties Welcome: Yes - Please pre-book
Admission Price: Free, suggested donations: Adults £6; Seniors £4; Children/Students £3
Gift Shop: Yes
Catering: Restaurant
More Attractions nearby
Wells Museum
Time-Trail of Roses
Bishop's Palace
Milton Lodge Gardens
Ebbor Gorge National Nature Reserve
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