The Bishop's Palace & Gardens - Wells

Exploring The Bishop's Palace & Gardens: A Historic Gem in Wells, UK

Nestled in the heart of the charming city of Wells, Somerset, lies a historic treasure that combines stunning architecture, beautiful gardens, and a rich history dating back over eight centuries. The Bishop's Palace & Gardens, a must-visit attraction, offers a unique blend of history, art, and nature, providing an unforgettable experience for visitors from all walks of life.

Main Services

• Historical Tours: Immerse yourself in the fascinating history of the palace and its inhabitants through guided and self-guided tours.
• Gardens & Grounds: Explore the breathtaking gardens, featuring a moat, a fortified bridge, and an array of plants and flowers that change with the seasons.
• Wedding Venue: Say "I do" in a setting fit for royalty. The palace offers a romantic and historic backdrop for weddings and civil ceremonies.
• Education & Learning: Engage in educational activities, workshops, and events designed to inspire and inform visitors of all ages.
• Café & Gift Shop: Refuel and indulge in the on-site café, offering a range of delicious treats and light meals. Browse the gift shop for unique souvenirs and locally sourced products.

Location and Access

The Bishop's Palace is conveniently located at Address: The Bishop's Palace, Wells BA5 2PD, United Kingdom, just a short walk from Wells Cathedral and other local attractions. The palace is easily accessible by car, with a wheelchair-accessible car park available on-site. Public transportation options include buses and trains, with Wells Cathedral Bus Station and Wells Train Station both within walking distance.

Upon arrival, visitors can access the palace through the fortified Bridge Gate, which offers stunning views of the moat and the palace's exterior. The entrance is wheelchair-accessible, ensuring that the attraction is open to all visitors.

Featured Characteristics

• Architectural Marvel: The palace's unique architecture showcases a harmonious blend of Norman, Gothic, and Victorian styles, reflecting its evolution over centuries.
• Magnificent Gardens: Spanning over 14 acres, the gardens feature a diverse range of plants, trees, and shrubs, as well as a tranquil lake, a rose garden, and a maze.
• Historic Art & Artifacts: Admire the palace's impressive collection of art, furniture, and historic artifacts, which tell the story of its inhabitants and the city of Wells.
• Moat & Bridge: Cross the fortified bridge and explore the palace's surrounding moat, which once provided protection and a water source for its inhabitants.
• Christmas Magic: During the festive season, the palace transforms into a winter wonderland, with twinkling lights, Christmas markets, and special events.

Practical Information

Opening times vary by season, so it's recommended to check the official website (bishopspalace.org.uk) before planning your visit. Admission prices are competitive, with discounts available for children, families, and groups. The palace offers assisted listening devices and wheelchair-accessible facilities to ensure a comfortable and inclusive experience for all visitors.

Contact the palace by phone at 1749988111 or email at [email protected] for further information or to plan your visit.

Positive Aspects from Reviews

"Lovely place, really enjoyed and it's well worth a visit. It is cheaper to buy a combined ticket for the Cathedral and Palace if you are planning to visit both places while you are there."

Visited to see the Christmas lights and was pleasantly surprised by how good it was both in the gardens and inside the palace. Would recommend a visit at Christmas."

"Stunning gardens and the inside of the palace was beautiful. It was so lovely to visit this time of the year with all the Christmas decorations and lights. Very impressive."

Visitors consistently praise the palace's beauty, history, and seasonal attractions, with many highlighting the affordability of combined tickets for multiple attractions. The enchanting Christmas displays and events also receive high praise, making the palace a must-visit destination throughout the year.

The Bishop's Palace & Gardens offers an unparalleled experience, combining history, art, and nature to create a unique and captivating attraction. Whether you're a history buff, a nature lover, or simply seeking a memorable day out, the palace promises an unforgettable visit that caters to all ages and interests.

❓ Frequently asked questions about The Bishop's Palace & Gardens

👍 Reviews of The Bishop's Palace & Gardens

Marianne

5/5

Lovely place, really enjoyed and it's well worth a visit. It is cheaper to buy a combined ticket fir the Cathedral and Palace if you are planning to visit both places while you are in Wells. There is a nice cafe, gift shop and good amenities.

Robert C.

4/5

Visited to see the Christmas lights and was pleasantly surprised by how good it was both in the gardens and inside the palace. Would recommend a visit at Christmas.

Jo H.

5/5

Stunning gardens and the inside of the palace was beautiful. It was so lovely to visit this time of the year with all the Christmas decorations and lights. Very impressive.

michael K.

5/5

One of the most interesting and beautiful places I have visited. Spent 6 hours there today covering all the buildings and gardens. Went on a guided tour at 11 a.m. to see inside the buildings which were great. Then at 12 noon a guided tour of the gardens. Excellent tour guide - very entertaining and informative. You can walk on the ramparts if you can cope with the steps and look over to the moat. Loads of lovely trees, shrubs and flowers in the gardens along with a small lake and waterfall. £14 each for adults entrance, there is a good cafe and toilets. Disabled access is good to most areas and they are refitting a lift so you will be able to access the upper floor of the palace. Well worth a day out and you also have the Wells Cathedral as a backdrop.

Hannah H.

5/5

My two children (ages 10 and 13) and I had a fabulous day out here on the Viking and Falconry day in September '25. Lots to see, beautiful gardens and in the heart of the city of Wells itself. We loved it!

Beth

3/5

It was ok but very underwhelming once you’ve just been to Wells Cathedral. I would just go there instead. Also I thought the gardens would be more vibrant and impressive.

david H.

5/5

Wonderful wander around the grounds, even if a bird did a poo on wife's trousers, after grounds we went round the palace 😀 Wonderful day September 2025

Steve M.

5/5

Excellent day out at the Bishop's Palace. 14 acres of gardens, plus the chapel, palace itself and ruined abbey. Plenty to do and see and do try to take advantage of an audio tour with informative discussions about all sorts of interesting things found there. You may also be fortunate enough to see the famous swans ringing the bell at the entrance in the hope of being fed! Great day out.