England’s Smallest City – WELLS – Has the Oldest Medieval Street in Europe!
Exploring England’s Smallest City WELLS!
If you’re looking to escape the hustle and bustle of big cities and immerse yourself in a slice of history and tranquillity, then welcome to Wells, England’s smallest city!
Nestled in the heart of Somerset, Wells boasts a rich heritage dating back to the 7th century. It was once a thriving Roman settlement and later became the seat of a bishopric, thanks to the founding of the magnificent Wells Cathedral in 909. Today, Wells remains a captivating blend of ancient architecture, charming streets, and a warm community spirit.
No visit to Wells is complete without exploring the impressive Bishop’s Palace, a stunning example of medieval architecture that has stood for over 900 years. Its imposing stone walls, intricate carvings, and breathtaking gardens make it a must-see for history buffs and architecture enthusiasts alike.
As you wander through the palace’s grand halls and chambers, you’ll be transported back to a bygone era, where bishops and noblemen held court and entertained guests.
At the heart of Wells lies its crowning glory, the magnificent Wells Cathedral. This awe-inspiring masterpiece of Gothic architecture is one of the most beautiful and well-preserved cathedrals in England. Its soaring arches, intricate stained glass windows, and exquisite sculptures are a testament to the skill and craftsmanship of its builders.
Take a leisurely stroll around the cathedral’s nave, admire the intricately carved stonework, and marvel at the breathtaking altar. Don’t forget to look up at the magnificent astronomical clock, which is one of the oldest working clocks in the world.
Explore the oldest medieval street in Europe
Venture beyond the cathedral walls and discover the enchanting Vicar’s Close, a picturesque cobbled street that is believed to be the oldest medieval street in Europe.
With its charming houses, Vicar’s Close offers a glimpse into Wells’s more intimate side. Find out in the video why it’s here and how it’s linked to the Cathedral.
While Wells itself is a treasure trove of history and charm, the surrounding area also offers plenty to explore. Take a short trip to Axbridge in this video https://youtu.be/mNYvBnM-lH4
or visit the nearby village of Cheddar, famous for its caves, gorge, and delicious cheese in this video https://youtu.be/zI8A5kYuC8E
Why visit Wells?
Whether you’re a history buff, an architecture enthusiast, or simply looking for a peaceful getaway, Wells has something to offer everyone. With its charming atmosphere, rich history, and stunning architecture, this little city is truly a hidden gem waiting to be discovered.
Helpful sites:
https://bishopspalace.org.uk/
https://www.wellsmuseum.org.uk/
https://www.berryscoaches.co.uk/
https://www.nationalexpress.com/
So, what are you waiting for? Pack your bags and embark on a journey to Wells, England’s smallest city, and discover a world of wonder and enchantment.
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00:00 Coming up in Wells
01:03 Getting to Wells, Somerset
01:49 Foundation of Wells
02:46 St Cuthbert’s Church
06:06 Almshouses and Priest Row
08:58 High Street Wool Industry
11:00 Market Place History & Market
14:23 Bishops Palace Moat & Ramparts
18:48 Inside the Bishops Palace
28:13 Bishops Palace Garden Walk
32:49 Wells Pools – How it got its name!
36:33 Wells Cathedral History & Walk
48:46 Vicar’s Hall & Close
49:35 Oldest Medieval Street in Europe
52:25 Wells & Mendip Museum
53:14 Brown Gatehouse
54:23 Wells by Night!
#smallestcity #ukheritage #wells
27 Comments
Also, see Cheddar Gorge just a few miles away. https://youtu.be/zI8A5kYuC8E or Historic Axbridge https://youtu.be/mNYvBnM-lH4
Helpful sites:
https://www.wellscathedral.org.uk/
https://bishopspalace.org.uk/
https://www.wellsmuseum.org.uk/
https://www.berryscoaches.co.uk/
https://www.nationalexpress.com/
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What a beautiful film, it leaves me speechless. So much English culture. I hope to see it in real life someday. God bless you, greetings from the Netherlands.
Thank you for your wonderful video celebrating the beauty and history of Wells! We're thrilled you enjoyed exploring the Palace and our 14 acres of RHS Partner Gardens. We hope to welcome you back to the Palace—and Wells—again soon!
I wondered whether the homes in Vicar's Close are currently residences
Well done, fantastic description. I hope to see with my eyes. Thank so much.
Bellissimo
Bellísimo video, gracias por compartirlo. Feliz Año Nuevo y Prospero 2025! Saludos desde Buenos Aires, Argentina.
9, I enjoyed. I want to stay in my home.
❤️👍❤️👍❤️… Thank you 😊…I have subscribed 👍…What a Beautiful City, and what a Beautiful Video 😊
smallest city? good news is wells will be a lot bigger after developers go ahead with the 10,000 houses earmarked for the area to reduce the global housing crisis. so thats good
Excellent!
That was lovely, just like old England, makes a change not to see those JUST EAT bikes 😔, no visitors then staying in hotels????
Reverend Thomas Godwin, former bishop of wells and bath is my direct 13th great grandfather, like me he will be delighted to see that Wells is still looking like old England, unlike most of the rest of the country😢😢😢😢
Thank you both of such interesting and fascinating video as always. Wishing you both a very happy and prosperous 2025. I look forward to seeing more interesting videos of you both in 2025. 🎉🎉🎉
Absolutely lovely and very informative
Neat!
That walk in the dark at the end of this wonderful video was truly marvelous!
Thank You so much from The Netherlands XXX
Thank you! Beautiful narration, a lovely speaking voice with clear and expressive intonation and lovely musical accompaniment. What a treat! In 2005 I visited Wilton House, Longleat, Stourhead, Stonehenge and Bath nearby. A long way from Sydney, Australia! A shame I didn't know about Wells Cathedral. So interesting. Exceptional, I will add!
What a lovely city…wonderful architecture & water features 💗🇨🇦
What a beautiful historic city. Thanks for the wonderful tour.
Simply,
Thank you
Simply superb! Thanks.
What a beautiful little city!! Living there must be a dream!!! Thank you so much for this video.
I wonder if this is where my family comes from.
Looks a lovely place and very well made video of it, loved the after dark part especially which added a different atmosphere to the place 👍
❤ Yet another fantastic video. So wonderful to see all these lovely places with you. I have been watching since 15 000 subs! ❤🇨🇦
Those stairs at the cathedral looks like the location of Discovery Of witches season 2 when Matthew de Cleremont meet Queen Elizabeth 1 in the hall.