The City of Wells in Somerset is the perfect base for exploration of the Mendips and the Levels. There was a settlement here during Roman times (possibly because of the springs that bubble up here giving the city its name). Today it offers a wealth of historic buildings, a medieval market square, narrow streets and a museum inviting exploration.
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PROBABLY THE FINEST NATIONAL EXAMPLE OF EARLY ENGLISH ARCHITECTURE.
Wells Cathedral was largely built between the 12th and 14th centuries. Deservedly famed for its magnificent West Front (featuring over 300 statues and carvings), the inverted scissor arches of the nave and one of the oldest working mechanical clocks in the country are also worthy of note. More here
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SITUATED BESIDE THE CATHEDRAL IS VICARS’ CLOSE, possibly the oldest purely residential street with original buildings still intact in Europe. Originally designated as an area to house the chantry priests (those paid to conduct masses for the souls of the dead) from the cathedral, the first parts to be constructed in 1348 were the entrance arch, a storeroom and a bakehouse. Construction of the houses (originally 22 on the east and 20 on the west) was complete by 1412 while the chapel and library at the end of the Close were built between 1424 and 1430.
For more on Somerset's incredible history and heritage go to our interactive E Book.