CITY OF WELLS IS CROWNED THE UK’S TOP TOURISM TREAT
A “beautiful” town has been hailed as the UK’s best place to visit.
Wells in Somerset is a medieval gem named the best non-seaside town.
The settlement is often referred to as England’s smallest city, due to its 12,000 population living in the shadow of its city status-making cathedral. Although it is eight times bigger than Britain’s dinkiest city – St Davids in Pembrokeshire – Wells is a charming place and it has now been crowned the best inland town in Britain by Which?
It got top marks for attractiveness and tourist activities following a survey.
Film buffs may recognise Wells as the backdrop for fictional village Sandford in Hot Fuzz. Locations used include the Swan Hotel, which has a restaurant serving classic dishes and afternoon tea, the corner shop famed for its Cornettos, and the marketplace.
But Wells is no one-hit wonder; it’s appeared in TV series Doctor Who, Wolf Hall, and the Dungeons & Dragons movie.
The market town is also packed with entertainment options, perfect for holidays, weekend breaks, or a day trip.
The Wells Cathedral, known as England’s first Gothic cathedral, is a must-visit. This grand structure took three centuries to construct.
It also houses more than 300 sculptures, Britain’s oldest working astronomical clock – from the 14th century, and offers daily tours.
A stone’s throw away is the historic Wells Market Place. Open Wednesdays and Saturdays, you can pick up fresh produce, sweet treats, and homemade crafts.
For photographers, Vicars’ Close is a must. As Europe’s oldest residential street, it boasts beautiful stone-brick homes, a cobblestone street, and a great view of the cathedral.
The City Arms – situated in the former jail – is another must-see and is reputedly the city’s most haunted watering hole.