Nestled in the heart of Somerset’s countryside, Wells may be England’s smallest city, but it boasts some of the country’s most captivating sights. With its golden stone buildings, winding lanes, and iconic cathedral, this city offers an atmosphere that feels untouched by the rush of modern life.
At the heart of Wells lies Vicars' Close, often regarded as Britain’s most picturesque street and Europe’s oldest complete medieval residential street. Walking along its cobblestone path is like stepping centuries into the past.
Built in the 14th century, Vicars' Close originally housed the Vicars Choral, clergy responsible for daily services at the cathedral—a tradition that continues today. The stone cottages, tall chimneys, and period-style lighting evoke scenes straight from a medieval tableau.
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The street’s centerpiece, Vicars’ Hall, completed in 1348, served as the communal dining hall, administrative centre, and treasury for the Vicars Choral. It stands as a remarkable testament to medieval craftsmanship and architecture.
Originally featuring 42 dwellings, Vicars' Close now contains 27 residences—all protected as Grade I listed buildings for their architectural and cultural significance, according to reports from the Express.
Visitors consistently praise this atmospheric street. One TripAdvisor reviewer called it “absolutely beautiful and well worth a visit,” saying, “It was like stepping back in time, and I can truly understand why so much film and television work is shot here.”
Another enthused, “Amazing! It felt like travelling back in time. Everything was impeccably maintained, and the chimneys gave the place a charming Mary Poppins vibe.”
Wells itself is equally enchanting. The city is centred around its magnificent Gothic cathedral, famous for its intricate west façade and unique scissor arches. Nearby, the Bishop’s Palace—surrounded by a moat—adds to the enchantment, complete with resident swans who famously ring a bell when it’s feeding time.
Yet beneath this picture-perfect exterior, Vicars’ Close faces urgent conservation challenges, including roof deterioration, water damage, and poor insulation.
Dean Toby Wright is committed to preserving this historic street while making it more accessible to visitors. Proposed plans include restoring the medieval interiors, creating a new visitor centre to celebrate the choral heritage, establishing a historic Muniments Room, and installing engaging audiovisual displays to bring the street’s remarkable history to life.