Home to the Bishops of Bath and Wells for 800 years, this stunning medieval palace and RHS partner gardens in the heart of the medieval city of Wells is open for all to enjoy and only a short distance from Bristol, Bath and Stonehenge. Cross the flagstone drawbridge over the breath-taking moat to experience a true hidden gem in the heart of the city of Wells, explore the ruined Great Hall and disc
over the Bishop’s private Chapel. The Bishop’s Palace is also world famous for its resident mute swans that ring a bell alongside the Gatehouse when they want to be fed. Visitors enjoy 14 acres of RHS stunning partner gardens which include formal planting, picturesque style gardens, a moat and waterfall, well pools (that give the city its name) and springs, an arboretum, a Victorian romantic garden with ruins, community garden and contemporary Garden of Reflection. The site and buildings of The Bishop’s Palace and Gardens is owned by the Church Commissioners and operated by The Palace Trust, a registered charity which manages the site as a heritage visitor attraction. The cost of maintaining the Palace is met entirely by grants, by Admission Tickets, special events and our café, and donations are also crucial to our work. So your support in this respect is vital to help "conserve The Bishop’s Palace and its story as a place of enjoyment and reflection for the benefit of all"
Activities and Events:
The Palace has a year-round programme of activities and events including outdoor theatre, children’s activities, musical performances and medieval-themed entertainment. Plus Christmas is a special occasion with the annual Artisan Market in November, Christmas at the Palace light illuminations, Father Christmas visits and festive music in December. Family Fun:
We’ve got so much for families to do including “The Dragon’s Lair” – the popular interactive play area designed around the themes and stories of the Palace. Taking inspiration from Dragon’s Wings, Well Pools & Water, Trees and History, this outdoor natural activity space exercises both minds and bodies with a pole jungle, tree pods, a waterwheel and sluice gates. Plus storytelling, children’s trails and creative workshops - there’s something to do at the Palace for families whatever the weather. The Bishop’s Table café:
The Bishop’s Table was named after Bishop’s Ken’s tradition of inviting twelve poor men and women of Wells to share a meal at his table when in residence at the Palace. Visitors enjoy delicious, locally-sourced homemade food (including gluten free, vegetarian and vegan options) with views across the croquet lawn towards the medieval Palace building. It’s located in the free area of the Palace grounds and serves some of the best coffee and cake you’ll find in the city! Community Engagement:
Working with the local community is a key focus for the Palace. We play our part in making Wells and the surrounding area a wonderful place to live by partnering with local community groups and initiatives. This could include donating some of the produce from the community garden to our local foodbank, providing opportunities for local people to return to work and gain work experience, working with local schools and providing complimentary Admission Tickets to those who will most benefit from them. Visitor Admission:
Admission provides 12 months of return visits from the date of your first visit on any normal sightseeing day. This includes access to the medieval Palace and Undercroft, ruined Great Hall, 14 acres of RHS partner gardens, the Bishop’s Chapel and all events (unless specifically ticketed). Daily guided tours of the Palace & Gardens are also included. Entry is free most Fridays to RHS members with starred cards (*). Entry is free to HHA members. Admission tickets can be purchased via the website at www.bishopspalace.org.uk or on site.
