Wells Market Place
A historic city center with a vibrant market, dominated by a magnificent cathedral and charming medieval streets.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Lively market atmosphere
Wells Market Place
Best Time
Lively market atmosphere
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A historic city center with a vibrant market, dominated by a magnificent cathedral and charming medieval streets.
"A place that you have to go and see. It's almost 2 worlds in one."
🎯 Arrive Early for Market
Beat the crowds and get the best selection at the Wednesday and Saturday markets.
👟 Comfortable Walking Shoes
Explore the charming streets and historical sites with ease.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Vibrant Market
Market Place
A bustling hub every Wednesday and Saturday, offering local produce, crafts, and unique finds.
Wells Cathedral
Cathedral Green
Magnificent medieval architecture that dominates the city skyline. A must-see for history and art lovers.
Bishop's Palace Gardens
Adjacent to the Cathedral
Tranquil moat-bounded gardens offering a serene escape and beautiful views of the palace.
Vicar's Close
Near the Cathedral
One of Europe's oldest residential streets, offering a unique glimpse into medieval life.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Market Days are Key
Beyond the Market
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Arrive Early for Market
Beat the crowds and get the best selection at the Wednesday and Saturday markets.
👟 Comfortable Walking Shoes
Explore the charming streets and historical sites with ease.
📸 Capture the History
Don't miss photo ops of the Cathedral and Vicar's Close.
💎 Seek Out Unique Jewelry
Polly Victoria's stall is a must-visit for amazing jewelry finds!
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Arrive Early for Market
Beat the crowds and get the best selection at the Wednesday and Saturday markets.
👟 Comfortable Walking Shoes
Explore the charming streets and historical sites with ease.
📸 Capture the History
Don't miss photo ops of the Cathedral and Vicar's Close.
💎 Seek Out Unique Jewelry
Polly Victoria's stall is a must-visit for amazing jewelry finds!
🚗 Easy Parking Available
Parking is generally straightforward, making access convenient.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Wells Market Place for its vibrant atmosphere on market days and its stunning historical surroundings, including the magnificent Cathedral and Bishop's Palace. The city is described as beautiful, exceptional, and offering a unique blend of a pretty market town with a deep historical journey. Some note that market variety can fluctuate, but the overall experience is highly recommended.
"Parking was easy and the streets are flat and navigable. We went on market Saturday and the town was lively and bustling with locals out with their kids and dogs. Felt right at home even being from the US."
Chris Galiffa
"Beautiful - in a physical, visual and spiritual way. Quite exceptional. One of those places you always know of but can easily ignore due to familiarity. But don't!
This is a place that you have to go and see. It's almost 2 worlds in one. On the one hand, a very pretty market town (though it is a City), with spring water running down the side of the road and a lovely market square with shops, cafés and restaurants and, if you're lucky, some great busking.
On the other, an almost mind-blowing journey back 100s of years to a world you can almost imagine. So much history that you can feel it as well as see and imagine it, from the glorious cathedral to the beautifully serene river/moat-bounded Bishop's Palace gardens, to the Vicar's Close - one of if not the oldest residential street in Europe.
We found it calming, emotional and extraordinary. And of course, who can forget Blackadder's baby-eating Bishop of Bath and Wells! Of little relevance, but an interesting link for those who enjoyed the series!"
Mike Mackenzie
"Went on Wednesday was a lovely market they had lots there to chose from. Plants and flowers looked lovely definitely worth a visit"
rosie ardley
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Wells Market Place is centrally located in the city. If driving, there are several car parks nearby. Public transport options include local bus services that stop close to the market.
Yes, Wells is served by local bus routes, with stops conveniently located near the Market Place, making it accessible for those relying on public transport.
From cities like Bristol or Bath, driving is a common option. Alternatively, train services to Castle Cary or Bristol Temple Meads can be followed by a bus or taxi to Wells.
While not a formal park and ride, there are several public car parks within walking distance of the Market Place, which can be a good alternative to driving into the very center.
The streets are generally flat and navigable, making it easy to explore on foot, especially around the Market Place and its surrounding historical sites.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, the Market Place itself is a public space and free to enter. Tickets are only required for specific attractions like Wells Cathedral or the Bishop's Palace.
The Market Place is always accessible. The market itself typically runs from 9 am to 3 pm on Wednesdays and Saturdays.
Entry to browse the market stalls is free. You only pay for any items you choose to purchase from the vendors.
While the Market Place is always open, the main market does not operate on Sundays. Some shops and cafes will be open.
To avoid the biggest crowds, aim for weekday afternoons. Market days (Wednesday and Saturday) are busiest, especially in the morning.
🍽️ 🛍️ Shopping & Dining
The market offers a diverse range, including fresh produce, plants, flowers, artisanal foods, clothing, crafts, and unique jewelry.
Yes, the Market Place and surrounding streets have numerous cafes, pubs, and restaurants offering a variety of dining options.
Absolutely! The market is a great place to find local Somerset produce, including fruits, vegetables, cheeses, and baked goods.
You can often find a variety of handmade crafts from local artisans, ranging from pottery to textiles and artwork.
Many visitors rave about the jewelry stalls, with Polly Victoria's stall specifically recommended as a must-visit for amazing finds.
🎫 🏛️ History & Culture
The iconic Wells Cathedral, the Bishop's Palace with its moat and gardens, and the historic Vicar's Close are all within easy walking distance.
It's the historic heart of the city, serving as a central gathering point for centuries and hosting a vibrant market that continues this tradition.
Wells is officially a city, known for its stunning cathedral and compact, charming atmosphere.
Guided tours are often available for Wells Cathedral and the Bishop's Palace, offering in-depth historical insights.
Vicar's Close is a remarkably preserved medieval street, believed to be one of the oldest continuously inhabited residential streets in Europe.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
The open space of the Market Place allows for some freedom to move around. For a change of pace, the Bishop's Palace Gardens are a fantastic spot for children to explore, with plenty of space to run around and discover the grounds. The presence of spring water running down the side of the road can also be a point of fascination for younger visitors. 🚶♀️ Solo Travelers & Explorers
💍 Couples & Romantic Getaways
For a more romantic outing, the serene Bishop's Palace Gardens provide a tranquil and beautiful backdrop for a leisurely walk. Enjoying a meal at one of the city's quaint cafes or restaurants in the evening offers a cozy end to the day. Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Wells Market Experience
Beyond the typical market fare, keep an eye out for seasonal events and specialized fairs, such as vintage markets, which add another layer of charm to the city's offerings.
The market's location in the heart of the historic city means you can easily combine your shopping with exploring Wells' other significant attractions. Remember to bring reusable bags and be prepared for a bustling, friendly environment. Exploring Wells' Historic Core
Adjacent to the cathedral, the Bishop's Palace offers a glimpse into medieval life, complete with a moat and beautifully maintained gardens that provide a tranquil escape. The palace grounds are perfect for a leisurely stroll, offering stunning views and a sense of peace. Adding to the city's historical allure is Vicar's Close, a remarkably preserved medieval street that is one of the oldest residential streets in Europe.
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