Coach Trips To Vicars’ Close In Wells with Berrys
Nestled in the heart of the historic city of Wells, Vicars’ Close is a quintessential English gem that promises visitors a fascinating glimpse into medieval life. As one of the oldest residential streets in Europe, retaining much of its original architecture, this picturesque location offers an enchanting journey back in time. Walking along its cobbled path, flanked by charming cottages and a backdrop of ancient stonework, you can almost feel history whisper with every step.
Step back in time and explore Wells’ architectural treasure with Berrys’ coach service, a seamless fusion of comfort and excitement. Our trips to Vicars’ Close are meticulously planned to offer a leisurely escape from the hubbub of modern life. The trip includes a scenic drive through the Somerset countryside, providing a perfect precursor to the visual delight that awaits at Vicars’ Close.
What are the Directions from Berrys Coaches Drop-off?
The nearest Berrys Drop Off is located at the Wells Bus and Coach Station. We’ve included a Google Maps route to help guide you there.
How do I get there from the Berrys Drop Off?
Upon arriving in Wells via the Berrys Coaches London Superfast 3 service, passengers alight at Wells Bus and Coach Station on Princes Road. Vicars’ Close is a pleasant, flat 0.4-mile stroll from the station, taking approximately 7 to 8 minutes on foot.
To reach the close, exit the bus station and head east on Princes Road. Continue straight across the intersection onto Broad Street and walk directly into the historic Market Place. Pass through the medieval gateway known as the “Penniless Porch” in the corner of the square to enter Cathedral Green. Walk along the main paved pathway past the magnificent West Front of Wells Cathedral, keeping the building on your right. Pass beneath the overhead stone Chain Gate bridge at the northeast corner of the green, and the entrance to Vicars’ Close will be immediately in front of you.
What Can I do at Vicar’s Close?
Vicars’ Close is more than just a walkway; it’s a living tableau of medieval life. Begin your exploration by ambling along the cobbled street, taking in the meticulously preserved cottages complete with their nostalgic chimneys – a testament to the craftsmanship from the 14th century. Don’t miss the splendid view of Wells Cathedral from the southern end of the Close, especially captivating in the late afternoon when the sun casts a golden hue on the stone façades.
What is the history of Vicar’s Close?
Commissioned in 1348 by Bishop Ralph of Shrewsbury, Vicars’ Close holds the proud distinction of being the oldest continuously inhabited residential medieval street in Europe. It was specifically built to house the Vicars Choral—the adult singers of the cathedral choir—who had previously lived scattered across local taverns in the city, frequently succumbing to what church authorities tightly termed “worldly temptations.” To keep the men safely sequestered, the close was later connected directly to the cathedral in 1459 via the overhead Chain Gate bridge, allowing the choir to walk from their beds to services without ever interacting with the public.
Architecturally, the street is a masterclass in medieval staging and forced perspective. The 14th-century master builders deliberately designed the long, quadrangle terrace to narrow subtly from south to north—the road spans 34 feet wide at the cathedral entrance but tapers down to just 23 feet wide at the northern chapel end, while the northernmost houses are built slightly lower than those at the front. This brilliant optical trick makes the street appear significantly longer and more grandly uniform to anyone standing at the entrance.
Comprising 27 Grade I listed houses, a communal dining hall, and its own private chapel, the close is currently undergoing a meticulous, multi-million-pound conservation project to secure its structural future and open key historic interiors to the public. Remarkably, it remains true to its 650-year-old mandate, still providing private, grace-and-favour housing for the modern cathedral organists, vergers, and choir members.
What Other Things Can I Do Nearby?
While Vicars’ Close is a captivating destination in its own right, Wells offers several other attractions worth exploring. The awe- inspiring Wells Cathedral is a stone’s throw away, renowned for its stunning West Front and the scissor arches of the nave. A short walk will take you to The Bishop’s Palace and Gardens, where you can wander through 14 acres of breathtaking grounds and historic buildings. Wells Market Place is also nearby, offering a delightful mix of local produce and crafts on market days.
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