There are 14 acres of outstanding, RHS Partner gardens to explore, including the beautiful well pools from which the city takes its name, family events, guided tours, a gift shop and a café with the best views in Wells!
The Bishop’s Palace dates from the early-thirteenth century when Bishop Jocelin Trotman received a crown licence to build a residence and deer park on land to the south of the Cathedral of St Andrew. Although home to the Bishop and other families, visitors can walk in the footsteps of past bishops through a number of rooms within the Palace.
You are also welcome to look around the Bishop’s private Chapel and explore the ruined Great Hall. The moat has been home to mute swans since the 1800s.
Since the Palace Gardens re-opened at the end of May, a new “People’s Ticket” has been on offer costing £15 for Adults and £7.50 for Children (5-17), which allows the holder to enter for one day and return for the following 12 months, so it’s the perfect excuse to spend those long summer days exploring the 56,500m2 of gardens
The Bishop's Palace Gardens are open daily from 10am. There is a toilet open on site. Takeaway refreshments are also available.
The Bishop’s Table café will be open daily for take-aways with outdoor seating, and offers brunch, lunch, creams teas, cake, ice cream, snacks and hot & cold drinks
Points to note:
- HHA & RHS cardholder do not book online - bring your card for scanning on site on arrival.
- Dogs are very welcome in the gardens of The Bishop’s Palace - we do ask that they are kept on a short lead. The only area that dogs are not allowed in is our new Dragon’s Lair area in the Arboretum, as this is a safe space for children. Dogs may not enter the Palace buildings unless they are assistance dogs.
We have reopened with your health and safety in mind in light of Coronavirus. Book now to secure your space and be sure to add on a donation to help us continue maintaining the beauty of this wonderful place.