The City Arms
A historic pub in Wells, once a jail, offering a unique atmosphere, great beers, and hearty pub grub with friendly service.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Blue hour photography, calmer galleries
The City Arms
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A historic pub in Wells, once a jail, offering a unique atmosphere, great beers, and hearty pub grub with friendly service.
"Best pint of Guinness in Wells by a country mile, coupled with amazing food and friendly staff!"
Avoid Fridays for Quiet
For a quieter experience, avoid Fridays due to live music and crowds; Thursdays are recommended.
Yard Entrance Smokers
Be aware the yard entrance can get busy with smokers; consider alternatives if sensitive.
Quick Facts
Cuisine
Pub
Price
Mid-range
Phone
+44 1749 677768
Address
City Arms, 69 High St, Wells BA5 2AG, United Kingdom
Website
cityarmswells.co.uk/Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Historic Jailhouse Ambiance
Dine in a unique pub housed in a building dating back to 1549, formerly the city jail.
Best Pint of Guinness in Town
Savor a top-notch pint of Guinness, praised as the best in Wells by patrons.
Gluten-Free Options
Enjoy traditional dishes like fish and chips, with a great selection of gluten-free choices.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Menu
Most Popular Items
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Avoid Fridays for Quiet
For a quieter experience, avoid Fridays due to live music and crowds; Thursdays are recommended.
Yard Entrance Smokers
Be aware the yard entrance can get busy with smokers; consider alternatives if sensitive.
Consider On-site Breakfast
No on-site breakfast may be available; explore nearby options.
Room Cleaning Check
Request room cleaning details if concerned about stains or cobwebs.
Tips
from all over the internet
Avoid Fridays for Quiet
For a quieter experience, avoid Fridays due to live music and crowds; Thursdays are recommended.
Yard Entrance Smokers
Be aware the yard entrance can get busy with smokers; consider alternatives if sensitive.
Consider On-site Breakfast
No on-site breakfast may be available; explore nearby options.
Room Cleaning Check
Request room cleaning details if concerned about stains or cobwebs.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
The City Arms is praised for its historic atmosphere, friendly staff, and excellent value, particularly for its Guinness and food offerings. However, some reviews mention dated decor and potential noise issues, as well as occasional concerns about staff attitudes and smoking areas.
"Atmospheric pub serving excellent homemade dishes, convenient position. A very historic building - used to be the town jail!"
jonathan eddolls
"We rented a twin room for one night upstairs from the pub. Staff is very friendly and helpful. Room was clean, fairly large, comfortable, with standard amenities. The price was very reasonable, and I would definitely stay here again. Location is very convenient to everything. We stayed on a Monday night and the pub was quiet."
R Seger
"Great location and good price. Room was a little dated but had plenty of storage. Headboard on bed was badly stained (clean it with steam or change it) Staff that we dealt with was Ok. Did not have food or drinks here. A little noisy if you plan to go to bed early."
Andy Low
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
It's a historic pub housed in the former city jail, dating back to 1549, offering a unique atmosphere with original features.
Yes, they serve excellent homemade pub dishes and are known for great prices and portions.
Yes, The City Arms offers a great selection of gluten-free options, including traditional dishes like fish and chips.
For a quieter experience, avoid Fridays when live music can make it busy. Thursdays are often quieter.
Yes, the venue is described as dog-friendly, offering a cozy environment.
The yard entrance can get busy with smokers. If sensitive, be mindful of this area.
One reviewer wished for a proper local cider on draft, suggesting they might primarily offer mainline brands.
Mentioned in
Featured in these publications
'Beautiful' UK market town 'is never crowded' and one of the nation's best places
The City Arms is another must-visit - this snug pub sits in the city's former jail and is reputedly the city's most haunted watering hole. But don't let that deter you, as it's also renowned for its selection of ale, ciders and mouth-watering pub grub. This charming city has plenty to offer visitors and it has earned rave reviews on Trip Advisor.
Things to do in Wells, Somerset: England's smallest city
And if you fancy a drink with a side of history, head to the City Arms, in what used to be Wells’ City Gaol. It dates back to 1549 and still has the original barred windows, locks and chains – and is also supposedly the most haunted place in Wells.
'Best' place in UK to visit is beautiful market town that's 'never crowded'
The City Arms, nestled in the former city jail, is reputed to be the most haunted pub in town. Despite its spooky reputation, it's celebrated for its selection of ales, ciders, and a hearty array of pub fare.
‘Beautiful’ market town is crowned UK’s ‘best’ place and is 'never crowded' | Travel News | Travel
There is also the City Arms, a cosy pub which sits in what used to be the city jail and is said to be the most haunted pub in the city but is known for its ale, ciders and plenty of pub grub to enjoy.
Book Hotels in Wells, United Kingdom
The City Arms located at 69 High St, Wells BA5 2AG, UK, Ad Dindar known for its lush surroundings and its contemporary architectural designs hosting r...
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit