A newly designed tour to explore the history and architecture of the Cathedral from an outside perspective.
- Trace the history of Wells Cathedral as you explore the exterior of the building and its precincts
- Step back in time to Vicars’ Close, the oldest continuously inhabited street in Europe
- Marvel at the Magnificent West Front with its medieval statuary, soon to be joined by a new sculpture from Antony Gormley
- Discover architectural secrets hidden in plain sight!
- Learn about the ongoing work to maintain and preserve this incredible place for generations to come
- The Maximum number for an Outside Wells Cathedral Tour is 15 (whilst there are social distancing rules).
- Children under the age of 12 go free (this offer is limited to 2 children per paying adult).
- Children must be accompanied by one adult for every two children, unless they are part of an organised youth group when at least two adults must be in attendance.
There are a few steps, undulating grassy areas, a gravel roadway and cobbles during the tour.
Only if there is exceptionally bad weather or walkways become slippery will the tour be cancelled, under these circumstances refunds will be issued.
Where to meet your guide
Check in at the Donation desk in the New Entry Cloister. A few minutes before your tour start time a Cathedral Guide will escort you to the outside of the Cathedral for introductions and health and safety advice. You will unfortunately not be able to join the Tour if you miss the start time.
You must read the Terms and Conditions associated with this tour which are listed below or are available to download.
Terms and Conditions
Please read this information carefully; the Cathedral wishes you to have an enjoyable and safe tour experience and we are grateful for your co-operation. Also note that this is a busy, working Cathedral so on occasion there may be some noise from other activities taking place, but this should be minimised due to the nature of the tour route.
- Before you commence the tour you will be asked to provide your name. Your signature will also be the acceptance that you have read and understood the terms and conditions.
- The responsible adult will be asked to sign on behalf of children under the age of 18 on the tour.
- There are a number of steps in and out of the Palm Churchyard.
- The Camery garden is mainly laid to grass, and is undulating, so can become slippery underfoot after rain.
- On the West side of the Cathedral is a sloped gravel roadway.
- Vicars’ Close is included in the tour and this area is laid to cobbles which can also become slippery after rain.
- Therefore we advise watching the weather reports as it is essential you wear suitable clothing and footwear. Possibly bring an umbrella too. High heels, flip flops or bare feet will not be admitted on the tour. Sandals must be securely fastened front and back.
- The maximum number of pre-booked places for an Outside Wells Cathedral Tour is 15.
- Children must be accompanied by one adult for every two children, unless they are part of an organised youth group when at least two adults must be in attendance.
- Once the tour has started there will be no opportunity for a comfort break.
- The lead Cathedral Guide is in charge of the tour and it is important that everyone follows the Guide’s instructions.
The Cathedral reserves the right to refuse any visitor admittance on the tour if deemed to be in breach of any of the above. This will be for your safety and for the safety of others. The Cathedral ‘s decision is final and is not subject to appeal.
In line with current guidelines and restrictions, the cathedral currently has COVID-19 measures in place for the safety of public visitors and our staff. Those attending a Tour are asked to observe these measures as instructed by the Cathedral Guides for the safety of all. Wearing of face coverings is mandatory within the Cathedral buildings(subject to exemptions).
