Coach Trips To The Scissor Arches In Wells with Berrys
Nestled in the heart of the historic city of Wells, Somerset, the Scissor Arches offer a fascinating glimpse into the architectural genius of the past. Part of the iconic Wells Cathedral, these magnificent arches are a must- see for anyone interested in the blend of history, architecture, and art that characterises this breathtaking region of England. For visitors and locals alike, the Scissor Arches are more than just a structural marvel; they represent the ingenuity and creativity of medieval architects who overcame challenges with enduring elegance.
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, you will step down at the Wells Bus and Coach Station on Princes Road. Wells Cathedral is located approximately 0.4 miles northeast of the station, rather than a 0.2-mile walk. It takes about 8 to 10 minutes to reach on foot.
To get there, exit the bus station onto Princes Road and turn left. Walk to the end of the road and cross the intersection straight onto Broad Street. Continue up Broad Street as it leads directly into the historic Market Place. Pass through the grand, medieval stone gateway known as the “Penniless Porch” in the northeast corner of the square, which opens up immediately onto the sweeping lawns of Cathedral Green and the magnificent West Front of the cathedral.
What Can I do when visiting the Scissor Arches?
Once at the Scissor Arches, prepare to be captivated by their intricate design and historical significance. Marvel at the awe- inspiring engineering feat; the arches were ingeniously constructed in the 14th century to support the cathedral’s central tower from subsiding.
Visitors often find themselves drawn towards trying to capture the perfect photograph or sketching the arches, inspired by the light and perspective the arches generously offer. Joining a guided tour can provide deeper insights into the technical and historical aspects of the arches, making your visit even more enriching.
What is the history of the Scissor Arches?
The famous Scissor Arches of Wells Cathedral are widely celebrated as one of the most daring and brilliant structural engineering solutions of the medieval era. In 1313, builders completed a towering new central tower crowned by a heavy, lead-covered wooden spire. However, the cathedral’s early 12th-century foundations were never designed to bear such immense weight, and within a few decades, alarming cracks began splintering the masonry as the central piers began to sink and buckle.
With the entire cathedral facing catastrophic collapse, Master Mason William Joy was brought in to save the building. Between 1338 and 1348, Joy designed an entirely unprecedented solution: a series of three massive, inverted stone arches configured into a striking, double-curved “X” shape across the openings beneath the tower.
While modern visitors often mistake them for contemporary 20th-century art installations due to their sweeping, geometric lines, these arches have successfully braced the weight of the tower for nearly 700 years. Joy’s ingenious combination of structural functionality and bold, Perpendicular Gothic design completely stabilised the building, turning an architectural nightmare into the cathedral’s most iconic visual signature.
What Other Things Can I Do Nearby?
Beyond the Scissor Arches, Wells offers a wealth of attractions that make a day trip truly memorable. Just a stone’s throw away, visit the Bishop’s Palace, complete with its beautiful gardens and moat. For movie buffs, a trip to the charming streets used in the filming of “Hot Fuzz” can add cinematic intrigue to your visit. Wells Market Place, with its array of local produce and crafts on market days, provides a delightful exploration for those wanting to indulge in the local culture.
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