About

Wells Cathedral is one of the finest examples of Gothic architecture in Europe and has welcomed pilgrims, visitors and travellers from around the world for over 800 years. Famous for its unique Scissor Arches, stunning medieval stained glass, historic Chapter House and magnificent West Front, the Cathedral offers an unforgettable experience in England’s smallest city.  

A visit to Wells Cathedral also includes the opportunity to explore Vicars’ Close, believed to be the oldest continuously inhabited residential street in Europe. Built in the 14th century to house the Cathedral’s Vicars Choral, the Close remains remarkably preserved and provides visitors with a unique glimpse into medieval life. Together, the Cathedral and Vicars’ Close create one of England’s most complete and atmospheric heritage sites. 

For international visitors, Wells Cathedral offers a rich insight into English history, architecture, music and faith, with centuries of connections to pilgrims and visitors from across the world.  

Groups are warmly welcomed and can enjoy guided tours, specialist heritage experiences and visits tailored to their interests. To support overseas visitors, Wells Cathedral provides visitor information leaflets in 12 languages, helping guests from around the world make the most of their visit. 

Why visit? Wells Cathedral and Vicars’ Close offer an authentic and inspiring journey through nearly a thousand years of English history. From breathtaking architecture and world-renowned choral traditions to beautifully preserved medieval streetscapes, visitors can experience one of the UK’s most remarkable heritage destinations in the heart of Somerset. 

Our visitor leaflets are available in English, Chinese, German, Spanish, French, Italian, Japanese, Dutch, Portuguese, Polish, Russian, Ukrainian.

Key selling points for groups

• Discounted admission rates for groups that pre-book
• Group catering options 
• Several car parks within 5-10 minutes’ walk of the Cathedral
• Diverse range of guided tours that showcase the richness of Wells Cathedral's history, architecture and heritage. Popular options include our Highlights Tour, High Parts Tour, Chained Library Tour, Vicars’ Close Tour and Treasury Tour, each providing visitors with a unique perspective on this remarkable medieval site.

Useful information for travel trade

Group booking procedures 

• Fill in the group booking form on their website. Or email and one of the team will be able to assist.

Group sizes and event capacity 

• Minimum group size is 10.

Coach access and parking 

• The Coach Park is located at the Coach/Bus Station in Princes Street (BA5 2DT). This is the best place to drop off your passengers. Toilets are available and ‘meet and greet’ teams are available at peak periods with maps and discounted shopping vouchers as well as lunch vouchers for drivers. The Cathedral is an 8–10-minute walk up the High Street from the coach station.

Enhanced and exclusive experiences

Wells Cathedral offers exclusive bespoke tours that can be tailored to suit the interests and requirements of your group.

Whether your focus is history, architecture, faith, music, medieval life, or behind-the-scenes access, the experienced guides can create a unique and memorable experience designed specifically for your visitors.

This personalised approach allows groups to explore the Cathedral's rich heritage in greater depth and enjoy a visit that is both engaging and meaningful. 

For groups seeking a more specialist experience, they also offer a selection of Special Interest Tours, led by knowledgeable guides with a passion for their subject. These include: 

• Stone Carvings Tour – exploring the intricate craftsmanship and symbolism found throughout the Cathedral. 
• Stained Glass Tour – discovering centuries of artistic and religious storytelling through our magnificent windows. 
• Architecture Tour – examining the Cathedral's pioneering Gothic design, including its world-famous Scissor Arches. 
• Textiles Tour – showcasing the Cathedral's collection of historic vestments, embroideries and liturgical textiles. 

Product development and partnerships

Wells Cathedral is delighted to partner with The Bishop’s Palace to offer groups a combined ticket experience, providing the perfect opportunity to discover two of Wells’ most iconic historic attractions. Together, the Cathedral and Palace tell the story of nearly 1,000 years of faith, power, community and heritage, standing at the heart of Wells and shaping the city’s unique character for centuries. 

Group Joint Ticket Rates: 

• Self-Guided Visit to Wells Cathedral + Bishop’s Palace Day Ticket – £16.00 per person 
• Cathedral Highlights Tour + Bishop’s Palace Day Ticket – £18.00 per person 

This combined ticket allows visitors to explore the magnificent Gothic architecture of Wells Cathedral alongside the beautiful gardens, medieval buildings and treasures of The Bishop’s Palace, offering a rich and immersive journey through the history of one of England’s most captivating cathedral cities.