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Home to the Bishops of Bath and Wells for 800 years, this stunning medieval palace and RHS partner gardens in the heart of the medieval city of Wells is open for all to enjoy and only a short distance from Bristol, Bath and the Somerset coast.
Cross the flagstone drawbridge over the breath-taking moat to experience a true hidden gem in the heart of the city, explore the ruined Great Hall and discover the Bishop’s private Chapel. The Bishop’s Palace is also world famous for its resident mute swans that ring a bell alongside the Gatehouse when they want to be fed.
Visitors also enjoy 14 acres of RHS stunning partner gardens, a moat and waterfall, well pools (that give the city its name) and springs, an arboretum, a Victorian romantic garden, community garden and contemporary Garden of Reflection.
We are a wheelchair-accessible venue; wheelchairs and a mobility scooter can be hired on-site.
Activities and Events:
The Palace has a year-round programme of events including outdoor theatre, medieval-themed entertainment and Christmas; a special occasion with the annual Artisan Market in November, Christmas at the Palace light illuminations and Father Christmas in December.
Family Fun:
There’s lots for families including storytelling, children’s trails and holiday creative workshops plus “The Dragon’s Lair” – the popular interactive play area designed around the themes and stories of the Palace.
The Bishop’s Table café:
The Bishop’s Table was named after Bishop’s Ken’s tradition of inviting twelve poor men and women of Wells to share a meal at his table. Visitors now enjoy delicious, locally-sourced food and drink located in the free area of the grounds with views across the croquet lawn.
Visitor Admission:
Admission provides 12 months of return visits from the date of your first visit. Daily guided tours are also included.
Entry is free to HHA members and most Fridays to RHS members with starred cards (*).
We have a complimentary ticket policy for personal assistants.
| Ticket Type | Ticket Tariff |
|---|---|
| Admission – Adult 12 month re-entry | £17.50 per ticket |
| Admission - Adult Online Discount Day Visit only | £14.00 per ticket |
| Admission – Child 12 month re-entry | £8.75 per ticket |
| Admission- Child Online Discount Day Visit only | £7.00 per ticket |
| Admission- Family 1 Adult | £31.00 family |
| Admission- Family 2 Adults | £48.50 per ticket |
| Admission- Student/ Blue Light Cards | £12.50 per ticket |
| The Bishop’s Palace/Wells Cathedral Joint Day Tick | £20.00 per ticket |
The Bishop’s Palace and Gardens runs the Gift Aid on Entry Scheme which lets us reclaim tax on the whole amount paid* – an extra 25 per cent at no cost to you – all of which goes straight back into the upkeep of this unique, Grade I listed, historic site.
Interested in membership with The Bishop’s Palace? Find out more on our website.
The Bishop’s Palace is easily reached from Bath (21 miles), Bristol (21 miles) and Glastonbury (8 miles).
The main routes to Wells are the A371 and the A39.
There is a drop-off point for vehicles smaller than a minibus outside the main entrance . For larger vehicles, the drop off point is on Sadler Street. There are three spaces on site for accessible parking, however, it is necessary to book these at least 48 hours before arrival.
Otherwise, The Palace site is a short walk from all central car parks: for long stays use Waitrose’s Whiting Way car park, BA5 2PJ (top car park) or Morrisons car park on East Somerset Way, BA5 1SQ.
First Buses 29, 77, 126, 173/4, 375, 376, 377, X75 all stop or pass through Wells. Alight at Wells Bus Station or ask the bus driver if they stop at Wells Market.
The nearest railway stations are Castle Cary (9 miles), Bristol Temple Meads and Bath Spa (both 21 miles), where you will find bus links to Wells.
| Season (29 Mar 2024 - 28 Oct 2024) | ||
|---|---|---|
| Day | Times | |
| Monday - Sunday | 09:30 | - 17:30 |
| Season (29 Oct 2024 - 28 Mar 2025) | ||
|---|---|---|
| Day | Times | |
| Monday - Sunday | 10:00 | - 16:00 |
* Last admission is 30 minutes before closure.
During the Christmas Holidays, the Palace will maintain normal public opening hours, with the exception of the following closures:
• Christmas Eve (closed from 2 pm onwards)
• Christmas Day
• Boxing Day
• New Year’s Day
• 2nd January
• 3rd January
We will reopen to the public at 10am on the 4th of January 2025.
© Open Britain 2024. All Rights Reserved
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