Coach Trips To The Bishop’s Palace & Gardens In Wells with Berrys
Nestled in the heart of the picturesque city of Wells, The Bishop’s Palace & Gardens is a magnificent historical gem that transports visitors back in time. With its stunning architecture and enchanting gardens, this iconic landmark offers an exceptional experience for all who venture through its gates.
Whether you’re a history enthusiast, a nature lover, or simply seeking a peaceful escape, The Bishop’s Palace & Gardens has something to offer everyone.
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 are set down at Wells Bus and Coach Station on Princes Road. The Bishop’s Palace & Gardens is located an easy, flat 11-minute walk east of this central drop-off point.
To reach the palace on foot, exit the bus station and walk east along Princes Road, which naturally becomes Broad Street as you cross the intersection. Continue up Broad Street directly into the historic Market Place. Pass through the grand, medieval stone archway in the corner of the square known as the “Penniless Porch.” Once through the gatehouse, the castle-like drawbridge and water-filled moat guarding the entrance to the palace will appear immediately ahead of you.
What Can I do at the Bishop’s Palace & Gardens?
Upon entering The Bishop’s Palace & Gardens, you’ll be greeted by a wealth of attractions and experiences. Discover the grandeur of the Great Hall, the tranquillity of the Bishop’s private chapel, and the peaceful ambiance of the medieval moat.
The gardens, a highlight for many visitors, are bursting with colourful blooms, serene walkways, and tranquil water features. Guided tours and informative exhibitions are available to enrich your visit, providing historical context and fascinating stories about the palace’s past and present.
What is the history of the Scissor Arches?
The Bishop’s Palace & Gardens has served as the continuous home of the Bishops of Bath and Wells for over 800 years. Construction began around 1210 under Bishop Jocelin of Wells, who built the original grand hall and private chambers out of local limestone to reflect the surging political and spiritual power of the diocese.
The site evolved dramatically into a heavily fortified stronghold during the turbulent 14th century. Fearing violent local uprisings and civil unrest, Bishop Ralph of Shrewsbury surrounded the palace with an imposing curtain wall, battlements, a defensive gatehouse, and a deep, spring-fed moat in the 1340s.
The palace grounds also envelop the city’s namesake natural springs—the ancient “wells”—which feed the moat and bubble up into pristine reflection pools. A beloved, long-standing highlight of the palace’s legacy is its famous resident swans, who have been trained for generations to swim up to the gatehouse windows and physically ring a bell attached to a rope whenever they want to be fed by the caretakers.
What Other Things Can I Do Nearby?
After exploring The Bishop’s Palace & Gardens, you’ll find plenty of other attractions nearby to make the most of your day in Wells. The iconic Wells Cathedral, with its awe- inspiring Gothic architecture, is just a stone’s throw away.
Explore the charming Vicar’s Close, believed to be the oldest residential street in Europe, or meander through the charming markets in the city square. For those looking to delve deeper into history, the Wells & Mendip Museum offers intriguing exhibits on the city’s past.
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