Discover Wells, Somerset (England’s Smallest City)
Wells is England’s smallest city, which surprisingly doesn’t have a train station (there used to be three). For now, the closest station is Castle Cary (a small town 24 miles south of Bath, which lies between the Mendip Hills and Blackmore Vale).
The city is named after three wells (springs) that rise within the city limits, located in the gardens of the Bishop’s Palace.
Wells Cathedral was built between the 12th and 15th centuries, it’s known for unique scissor arches and over 300 carved statues on its West Front. The soaring ceilings and stained-glass windows fill the space with colour, and the Chapter House Stairs are known for their worn stone steps.
Next to the cathedral, The Bishop’s Palace has been home to bishops for over 800 years. The 14 acres of peaceful gardens including ancient wells, which give the city its name. Vicar’s Close is Europe’s oldest residential street, built in the 14th century.
The Strawberry Line Path
Recently three volunteers have helped to clear paths and remove litter along The Strawberry Line Path, a converted railway track near Wells.
Always follow the Countryside Code, to keep all creatures safe.
The 10-mile walk stretches from Yatton to Cheddar, but there are shorter sections like the 2 miles from Wells to Dulcote through ancient woodland, with spectacular views of Wells Cathedral. All routes are wheelchair-friendly (save a steep lane at Axbridge).
