July 2025

Wells Cathedral has one of the few chained libraries in Britain. It is especially attractive as it is still in its original location built in the 1450s, although the current bookshelves and chains are 17th Century. Our Chained Library houses books published before 1800 which were collected by the canons in the 16th, 17th and 18th centuries, reflecting their wide-ranging intellectual interests.

Wells Cathedral has one of the few chained libraries in Britain. It is especially attractive as it is still in its original location built in the 1450s, although the current bookshelves and chains are 17th Century. Our Chained Library houses books published before 1800 which were collected by the canons in the 16th, 17th and 18th centuries, reflecting their wide-ranging intellectual interests. Tours offer an insight into the chained library and are led by our highly trained and enthusiastic Cathedral Guides. If you’d like to make a last minute booking you can call us on 01749 671663 or ask at the Welcome Desk on the day of your visit. Please allow one and a half hours for this popular tour. Be aware that access is by a stone spiral staircase and may not be suitable for those with mobility problems. Each tour has a limit of 8 people, and is not suitable for children under the age of 12.