A significant £7 million restoration project has commenced to preserve Vicars' Close, a Grade I-listed medieval street nestled in Wells, Somerset. Constructed in 1348, Vicars' Close is believed to be Europe’s oldest intact medieval street still used for its original purpose: housing choristers.
Originally built to accommodate the singers of Wells Vicars Choral, the close still serves as home to the musicians, organists, and vergers of Wells Cathedral. However, many of the buildings were in urgent need of repair.
The extensive restoration will address essential maintenance issues, including re-roofing, drainage enhancements, conservation of historic walls, and delicate exterior woodwork repairs. Above all, the goal is to ensure the buildings remain watertight and preserved for future generations.
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As part of the project, four of the 27 historic houses and a sensory garden will be opened to the public for the first time, inviting visitors to experience this remarkable piece of living history. Project completion is anticipated by spring 2027.
The Very Revd Toby Wright, Dean of Wells, emphasized the cultural significance of the endeavor: “We have a responsibility not only to protect the architectural site, but also to share its extraordinary heritage and enable more people to engage with it.”
To bring the project to fruition, Wells Cathedral still requires £800,000 in funding. Supporters are encouraged to contribute via donations and fundraising events to help safeguard this exceptional medieval heritage site.