Wells Cathedral
Quick Summary
Wells Cathedral is a prominent example of English cathedral architecture, located in Wells, Somerset, England. Construction of the cathedral began in the 12th century and it dominates the city, which derives its name from the numerous springs nearby.1
The cathedral is notable for its well-preserved ancillary buildings, including the 15th-century deanery and palace, and the unique 14th-century College of Vicars Choral. The Wells Museum, housed in the chancellor's house, features a significant collection of local archaeological finds. Unlike many English cities, Wells has experienced limited industrial development and remains a popular tourist destination, largely due to its magnificent cathedral.1
Ask Britannica AI about this topic
Britannica doesn't have a full article on this topic, so we've curated a list of our relevant coverage.
Mendip…the famous medieval cathedral at Wells and the abbey at Glastonbury, are built of the locally quarried high-quality Doulting limestone. Area 285 square miles (739 square km). Pop. (2001) 103,869; (2011) 109,279.
Read More…the famous medieval cathedral at Wells and the abbey at Glastonbury, are built of the locally quarried high-quality Doulting limestone. Area 285 square miles (739 square km). Pop. (2001) 103,869; (2011) 109,279.
Read More
clock…extant, and one built for Wells Cathedral in England is preserved in the Science Museum in London. The Salisbury clock strikes the hours, and those of Rouen and Wells also have mechanisms for chiming at the quarter hour. These clocks are large, iron-framed structures driven by falling weights attached to…
Read More…extant, and one built for Wells Cathedral in England is preserved in the Science Museum in London. The Salisbury clock strikes the hours, and those of Rouen and Wells also have mechanisms for chiming at the quarter hour. These clocks are large, iron-framed structures driven by falling weights attached to…
Read More

