high tours wells cathedral

Picture Somerset

• Jul 31, 2018

High parts, no lows! A stunning Wells Cathedral tour

Updated: Jan 20, 2020

We rush to get to Wells Cathedral on time for the High Parts Tour - a special 'behind the scenes' look at the upper levels of the Cathedral itself, that lets you walk in the footsteps of the stone masons. I don't know if the masons ever had 'one of those days', but for us, everything seems to be late and frustrating (and yes we get stuck behind a tractor on the way here! ;))

As soon as we step through the Cathedral doors though, all that changes. The calm. The clean, cold air. The spotless stone. The spine-tingling beauty of this magnificent building just works its magic...

... washing the earlier madness of the day away, as we head to a tucked-away spiral staircase to climb the stone steps that lead to the Cathedral's most secret spots!

On a tour of the upper reaches of a building described as "the first truly Gothic Cathedral in the world", by Art Historian John Harvey, there are about 250 uneven steps to climb! That's during the whole 90 minutes though and you do it in a couple of different stages, so although I'm thinking 'I'll never make it' at the beginning, it's actually manageable for me. The excitement of wanting to discover what's at the top of the steps, takes my mind off not being the fittest person in the world, anyway! :)

Our first part of the climb takes us to a labyrinth of hidden spaces, galleries and chambers, with our expert guides literally shining a light on things we need to pay special attention to - as well as sharing the history of the Cathedral's lesser seen spaces.

There are some very cool things to discover on the tour, as you might expect from a Cathedral built between 1175 and 1490 (replacing an earlier church dating from... wait for it... 705!).

We walk right behind the famous astronomical Cathedral clock - the second oldest surviving clock in England no less! From the outer dial (on the north transept of the building), to the inner face close to the Canons' Vestry, it's a thing of beauty from the 1390's.

From high up behind the scenes, we get a precious glimpse of the internal workings - the cabinet-enclosed mechanism, the pulleys and the old wooden handle from days gone by, when the clock used to be wound by hand, at least twice a week. Guess how many turns of the handle a time that took? Only 750!! ;)

The days of hand-winding are over now though! Three electrical motors have been doing this job since 2010, when local jeweller Paul Fisher retired. His family manually wound the clock for 80 years so standing here, we wistfully imagine the day that all changed... although Paul retired to save his knees from the 50 stair climb twice a week - and presumably, he's got far less muscly forearms now too!! ;)

We also duck down and sneak inside The Tracing Room, to see one of only two surviving medieval upper tracing floors in the country.

"What's a tracing floor?" we hear you shout! ;) Well, it's this small space, where master stone masons drew out their detailed designs for each element of the Cathedral, to turn them into templates for building. To put it in to some sort of perspective, the only design tools these guys had were set squares, compasses and a piece of rope (sounds a bit like my GCSE maths class ;)) and from the lightly scratched, chalked or charcoaled designs they made on this plaster of paris floor, the bones of the awe-inspiring building were created. Pretty mind-blowing, right?

Focusing on the floor patterns in the dimly lit chamber, you can almost catch a glimpse of the masons scratching out their plans, hear the sound of metal scraping stone and feel the craftsmanship that originated from this very room, so many moons ago.

Moving on from here, we get to take some fantastic aerial photos of the heart of the Cathedral...

... and that's not all! We explore the singing gallery - the narrowest of narrow passageways along the west front, where choristers would sing on festival days.

Acoustically, the sound definitely bounces off the the walls with satisfying volume and reverb. It absolutely carries and we get proof... as our guide breaks into song to test it out!

After a final climb of the remaining stone steps, we pass through the south transept roof space, where we stand around 22 metres above the Cathedral font...

Learnings about the fire at York Minster in 1984 have definitely been taken on board in this area. We discover that at York, the weight of the water being pumped by the fire brigade collected in vault pockets, which helped the vaults collapse. Our guide shows us the work that's been done here, to make sure that can never happen. Who knew trenches, metal cages, pipes and polystyrene plugs could be so clever...

As we move through to the high tower, organ music from the space below drifts through the air and as we look up, I feel the hairs on the back of my neck stand on end.

As we reach the nave roof, the original wood is a beautiful sight - and scent, with the gentle fragrance of timber encouraging you to breathe in and fill up your senses...

... and in this space, eight open circles on the west side shine like mini stone portholes! If you like your brass sounds, you'll love this story. These holes were used by trumpeters to create a heavenly sound on Palm Sundays. Close your eyes, sprinkle some imagination around and you can definitely hear those trumpets blow!!

Overall, the tour teaches, challenges and helps us appreciate just some of what went into creating a stunning Cathedral that's at the very heart of this special Somerset city, but I have to say... for all the amazing things we see, the ones I love the most are the tiny little highs! The intricacies. The things that might go unnoticed.

A mason's initials scratched in to the stone...

The left-behind stone masons' templates, hanging like ragdolls...

The light, picking up the shapes and casting shadows that dance across the space...

A family of pigeons nesting in a window in the singing gallery :).

Cathedral cat, Pangur - casually chilling out, listening to choir practice!

And the graffiti. The mini drawings so quickly and carelessly scribbled, that bring genuine smiles to our little group...

My mind flicks back to the inscription on the outer dial of that famous Cathedral clock. Nequid Pereat, it says. Let nothing be lost. Well to us, on this tour, absolutely nothing was.

There's so much joy to be taken from discovering the little details and when we look back at the Cathedral from the outside, it's those tiny pieces that build a story that has definitely won our hearts. This magnificent building, standing proud in the heart of Wells, has given us an unexpected experience that's made lasting memories.

If you haven't been yet, what you waiting for? ;)

To book the High Parts Tour, visit the Wells Cathedral website here . Tickets are £10 per adult and £8 for children (plus a small Eventbrite booking fee), there are family options and tickets with a cream tea afterwards too! I think we missed out there ;).

P.S. Would it be to silly to say that the tour refreshes the high parts other cathedrals can't reach? (she says, showing her obsession with retro adverts!) ;)

#wellscathedral #highpartstour #wells #somersetcool #somersetblog

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Wells Cathedral High Parts Tours

Sorry, there are no future dates available

Climb the spiral staircase to walk in the footsteps of Wells Cathedral masons with new behind-the-scenes tour of Wells Cathedral’s High Parts; one of the most memorable things to do in Wells! 

Discover hidden spaces, galleries and chambers, including behind the Wells clock.

See one of only two surviving tracing floors in the country where masons drew templates on the floor

Walk along the singing gallery, complete with and learn about trumpet holes! 

Explore the south transept roof space.

And marvel at the nave from a very different perspective! 

Each Tour lasts 1.5 hours and does not include the tower. Bookings can be made via Eventbrite up to 24 hours prior to the tour taking place; click on the month of your choice here to choose your preferred day and time. Want to make a last minute booking? Call on 01749 671663 or ask at the Donation desk on the day of your visit.

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Most Recent: Reviews ordered by most recent publish date in descending order.

Detailed Reviews: Reviews ordered by recency and descriptiveness of user-identified themes such as waiting time, length of visit, general tips, and location information.

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Plan your visit

Most Recent: Reviews ordered by most recent publish date in descending order.

Detailed Reviews: Reviews ordered by recency and descriptiveness of user-identified themes such as wait time, length of visit, general tips, and location information.

Also popular with travelers

• (0.14 mi) The Swan Hotel
• (0.10 mi) The Crown at Wells
• (0.13 mi) The White Hart Inn
• (0.13 mi) Ancient Gate House Hotel
• (0.12 mi) 7a Cathedral Green
• (0.03 mi) Wells Cathedral
• (0.10 mi) The Fountain Inn Pub
• (0.14 mi) The Olive Tree
• (0.10 mi) ASK Italian
• (0.12 mi) Rugantino Restaurant
• (0.07 mi) Vicar's Close
• (0.10 mi) The Bishop's Palace and Gardens
• (0.10 mi) Wells Market Place
• (0.05 mi) Wells and Mendip Museum
• (0.07 mi) West Front

Wells Cathedral High Parts Tours

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Wells Cathedral

Chain Gate, Cathedral Green, BA5 2UE

Description

Built between 1175 and 1490 Wells Cathedral in Somerset has been described as “the most poetic of the English Cathedrals”.

Built between 1175 and 1490 Wells Cathedral has been described as “the most poetic of the English Cathedrals”. Set in the medieval heart of England’s smallest city, and an easy drive from Bristol, Bath and Cardiff, Wells is the earliest English Cathedral to be built in the Gothic style. The current building is a significant landmark in the South West of England, has an international reputation and is TripAdvisor ranked number one for things to do in Wells and in Somerset. Wells Cathedral has unique features that separate it from other English cathedrals including its iconic West Front and the beautiful ‘scissor arches’ supporting the central tower, as well as one of the largest collections of historic stained glass in the country. The Cathedral also boasts the famous Wells Clock (which is considered to be the second oldest clock mechanism in Great Britain), the fascinating octagonal Chapter House and one of only four chained libraries in the UK. Wells Cathedral welcomes thousands of visitors each year who join in with regular daily services and events or who come simply to enjoy the calm and hospitality of this wonderful and holy place. Stay, if you can, for Evensong with the Cathedral’s world renowned choir (term times); a peaceful and moving end to your day.

Tours: Free daily tours of the Cathedral are available all year except Sundays.  Or discover hidden spaces and chambers, explore the south transept roof space and marvel at the nave from a very different perspective via the Cathedral's popular and longer High Parts tours which can be pre-booked via the website at www.wellscathedral.org.uk/visit/tours. The Cathedral also runs 20 minute weekly window, stone carvings and embroidery 'walks' (Saturday and Wednesday mornings, April-October). Guided tours for group visits can also be pre-booked via the Visits team at [email protected].

Families When term breaks up the Cathedral offers creative workshops for children accompanied by their parents or guardians. We also provide free family trail leaflets which are available free of charge on arrival and which help children to learn about the main highlights and history of the Cathedral. Group Visits: Groups of 10+ are charged a fixed admission fee of £7.00 if booked in advance, or £8.00 if unreserved. For more information, and to book, please email [email protected] Vicars’ Close: Adjoining the Cathedral is Vicars’ Close, believed to be the only complete medieval street left in England. Vicars’ Close was designed to provide accommodation for the Vicars Choral, who sing the daily services, and this is still the case today. This centuries-old tradition is unique and a much valued part of the continuing life of Wells Cathedral. The medieval windows of the houses and the garden archways seem to have survived more or less intact until the early nineteenth century, and even now a few still exist.

Make a Day of It A warm welcome awaits you at our two Cathedral shops which stock a wide range of unique mementoes and gifts. Our café is also open daily for coffee, delicious home-made lunches and afternoon teas.

Entry: English Cathedrals receive no regular funding from the Government or the Church of England towards maintenance, restoration and development work, so here at Wells that means we have to raise £4,500 per day. Admission is by donation with a suggested donation of £8.00 for adults, £7.00 for concessions, £20.00 for families and free for under 10s. All donations are greatly appreciated, and all are very welcome to visit.

http://www.wellscathedral.org.uk

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Wells Cathedral Chain Gate Cathedral Green Wells BA5 2UE United Kingdom

T: 01749 674483

F: 01749 832210

E: [email protected]

W: wellscathedral.org.uk

Facebook: @WellsCathedral

Twitter: @WellsCathedral1

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Wells Cathedral, Divine Landscapes & Inspiring England

Encounter mediaeval England & natural beauty! Explore the ancient city of Wells, its stunning Cathedral & Bishop's Palace before venturing deep into the English countryside for a day you'll never forget.

Journey back in time to encounter one of England's greatest mediaeval marvels, the time-frozen city of Wells.

Explore the Cathedral, the first Gothic building in England and admire its many treasures and hidden gems.

Visit the impressive walled and moated Bishop's palace, the historic home to the powerful Bishops of Bath and Wells, and today host to one of the most bucolic gardens in the South-west.

Then, venture to Cheddar Gorge and the Mendip Hills to encounter the kind of magnificent and quintessential English countryside that you've always imagined, alongside a few fascinating hidden gems that will leave you awe-struck.

Enjoy a day out like no other, leaving you with memories you'll treasure forever.

What's Included

Pick up and return to your bath accommodation, enjoy lunch at a beautiful country inn, encounter the magical wells cathedral & bishops' palace on a private, guided tour, entrance tickets, discover cheddar gorge & some of england's most beautiful, bucolic scenery, travel in a luxurious vehicle, what to expect, 9:00am 1. pick up from your accomodation, 1 hour 2. travel south from bath crossing the stunning, ancient mendip hills., 10:00am 3. explore the tiny, historic city of wells, its cathedral and the gardens of its bishops’ palace., 30 mins 4. venture through breath-taking countryside and down narrow lanes., 12:30pm 5. enjoy a fabulous lunch in a characterful, historic country inn., 30 minutes 6. travel through breath-taking countryside on a scenic drive off the beaten track., 2pm 7. stop for cheese tasting at the cheddar cheese company, at the base of cheddar gorge., 1 hour 8. travel back towards bath, stopping at a fascinating hidden gem if time permits, 4.15-5:00pm 8. drop back at your accommodation, testimonials.

Most amazing day experience! "The tour guides are all so friendly and inclusive, getting to know them all and everyone else on the tour and sharing the experience with them is what makes it so special. If you want an unforgettable experience, tailored to you and others on the tour, and to get to know some amazing people do book on these tours! You'll learn so much about the beautiful places you visit, the history and also about the cultures and people you share the experience with."

A wonderful trip!! "We had an excellent day-long excursion! Our tour guide Jules demonstrated a wealth of knowledge, taking us to interesting sights we would not have known to look for. Grateful for his friendly and easy-going nature! Would highly recommend this tour of prehistoric sights and charming towns."

Super Touring Company Super Guides "Jules #1 and Rolland can't forget Jules #2 and Will, were fantastic or should I say "brilliant!", guides, drivers and new friends. If private, personal and rewarding touring is what you want, this is the company and people for you. Our times together far exceeded our expectations. We loved Bath and the Cotswold villages were like calendar pages. We won't forget our time there."

Get in touch if you have any questions by emailing [email protected].

Wells Cathedral

Located at the southern tip of the Mendip Hills Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, and described as the “most poetic” of the English Cathedrals, Wells Cathedral is home to a thriving spiritual, musical and historical community that stretches back nearly 850 years.

 The Cathedral welcomes visitors all year round to experience its stunning architecture, world-class music, and a full programme of events, tours and concerts.

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Upcoming (15).

Afternoon Tea at The Loft, Wells Cathedral

Check ticket price on event

Walk the High Parts 2024

A Stitch in Time Summer/Autumn 2024

Glass, Light & Colour Summer/Autumn 2024

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Sound of Wells Music Quiz

Tue, May 7, 7:00 PM

Carvings and the Carvers Summer/Autumn 2024

The Phantom of the Opera (1925): Silent Movie with Organ

Wed, May 8, 8:00 PM

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Thu, May 9, 1:05 PM

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Sat, May 11, 7:00 PM

Family Holiday Activity: Spring into Life!

Family Holiday Activity: Get Growing!

Family Holiday Activity: Make an Easter Garden

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Wells Cathedral Oratorio Society: The Dream of Gerontius

Sat, Mar 23, 7:00 PM

After the Flood – The Church, Slavery and Reconciliation

Sat, Mar 9, 1:45 PM

Luxmuralis: Crown and Coronation

Family Holiday Activity: Celebrate the Saints

Family Holiday Activity: Make a Bird Feeder

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Wells Cathedral School Early Music Concert

Tue, Feb 6, 7:30 PM

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Tue, Jan 30, 7:00 PM

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Sound of wells 2024, wells cathedral hidden spaces tours, wells cathedral special interest tours.

• Admission and Opening Times

A value-packed visit for all the family

It is our responsibility to maintain and care for Wells Cathedral and all it offers to our community for future generations. However, the Cathedrals of the Church of England receive limited funding from the church and government and rely on donations, legacies and grants as well as the income they can generate for themselves. That means here at Wells we must raise £4,500 per day through our own endeavours and with the vital help of our visitors, congregation and supporters.

This means we ask adult tourism visitors to contribute to the upkeep with an admission charge.

Admission to Wells Cathedral 

There is no charge for people who wish to come into the Cathedral to pray, attend a service or light a candle. 

Tickets purchased via the Welcome Desk.  Visit includes a ground floor tour or audio tour, access to the new Undercroft Exhibition and a specially designed Children’s Explorer Backpack.  

Details of the Cathedral Card and the new Residents’ Pass  and  Parish Pass , which both allow barrier free entry, are available   here .

A Joint Day Ticket to Wells Cathedral and The Bishop’s Palace and Gardens provides discounted day entry to both major attractions versus the cost of separate admission.  Tickets can be purchased at the Cathedral’s Welcome Desk, at The Bishop’s Palace’s Ticket Office or online here .

Opening Times

Please check this page for any last minute changes prior to your visit as some events may be arranged at short notice.

 Closures and Restrictions – Wells Cathedral

Ground Floor Tours

Included with your Admission Ticket, our Ground Floor Tours last approximately one hour and provide a general overview of the highlights which make Wells unique among English Cathedrals. They can add significantly to your enjoyment and appreciation of the Cathedral.

The hourly ground floor tours generally operate Monday to Saturday, on the hour from 11.00 a.m. to 3.00 p.m.

No booking is required. Simply gather by our ‘Tour’ sign in the nave before the tour is scheduled to begin.

A group of 10 or more?  Please pre-book one of our more suitable group tours:   click here.

Or for a more in-depth tour of the treasures and history of this special place, including the Chained Library or High Parts, click here .

Explorer Backpacks

Children and young people from 3 years upwards can also discover Wells Cathedral’s history, stories and special places in an interactive and fun way with the help of Explorer Backpacks (from 22nd April 2024).

The backpacks have been designed to include all the tools needed to explore and discover Wells Cathedral and will complement new activity cards which, together with a map, create a brand new children’s trail.

Explorer Backpacks are included with admission for the duration of the visit and can be picked up from the Cathedral’s Welcome Desk on arrival.

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