City of Wells

The City of Wells is a beautiful destination, rich in culture and history. It boasts magnificent architecture, including the 13th century Cathedral and the uniquely moated Bishop’s Palace.

Famous as England’s ‘smallest city’, the many attractions are within easy walking distance of each other, and there are plenty of places to eat, and to stay, close to the Festival venue. The area around the city is also worth a visit with the Mendip Hills, Somerset Levels, Cheddar Gorge, Wookey Hole Caves, Kilver Court Gardens and Glastonbury Tor all a short drive away.

Wells Tourist Information

Tourist information for the City of Wells and the surrounding area including maps, plus places to eat, drink, visit and stay. Telephone: 01749 671770

City of Festivals

Wells boasts a range of festivals which showcase a wealth of local and national talent: in addition to our own Festival of Literature there are festivals of Music, Art, and Food during a spectacularly festive autumn! At other times of the year the city plays host to a Drama festival, a Comedy festival and a brilliantly illuminated carnival. Wells may be small, but it holds a proud place in the festival world… The city also boasts highly popular bi-weekly markets, regular craft fairs and a full season of events hosted by both the Cathedral and the Bishop’s Palace.

Wells Comedy Festival 26-28 May 2023

England’s Smallest City Hosts a Big Weekend of Stand Up.

Featuring Phil Wang, Lou Sanders, Rosie Jones, John Robins, Mark Watson, Sam Campbell, Tim Key, Richard Herring, Esther Manito, Spencer Jones, Nabil Abdulrashid, Kiri Pritchard-McLean, Jamali Maddix, Paul Foot, Sikisa, Jen Brister, Chloe Petts and many more.

Wells Theatre Festival 6-9 July 2023

Complementing the current Wells Literary, Arts, Comedy and Food festivals, the Wells Theatre Festival aims to attract a theatre-going public of all ages, whilst also encouraging young people to participate in theatre practice. Oscar winning actress, Dame Judi Dench and renowned director, Sir Richard Eyre are patrons for the festival.

WAC – Wells Art Contemporary 5 August- 2 September 2023

WAC provides two ways for artists to exhibit their work: artworks in the gallery around the Cathedral cloisters; and installations within the Cathedral and its grounds. A highlight of the city’s cultural life, attracting thousands of visitors each year.

Somerset Open Studios 16 September – 1 October 2023

Somerset Open Studios returns for 2023! It’s the biennial opportunity for SAW Artist Members to open their studio doors to allow a glimpse into often-private spaces and workshops, alongside pop up venues, where audiences can meet the artist, see work in progress and visit the creative source.

Somerset Art Weeks alternates each autumn between Open Studios and Exhibitions + Events. After the return of the Art Weeks guide last year, Somerset Open Studios 2023 will feature artist studios, workshops and activities, including Family Friendly Weekends.

Wells Food Festival 8 October 2023

Almost 200 local traders will be showcasing and selling artisan food and drinks, street food and homewares in the Market Place, the Town Hall, along the moat and in the recreation ground.

Also included will be a selection of South West artisan food and drink producers from beyond Somerset. English wines will be featured again this year, with local vineyards represented, as well as those from further afield. The Children’s Zone will include the Fun Kitchen cookery workshops and an interactive children’s trail. The festival is free to enter and family friendly.