A place of enjoyment and reflection for the benefit of all in the heart of Wells, Somerset
OPEN
9.30AM – 5.30PM
How to find us
Accessibility
01749 988111
One of Somerset’s top heritage attractions bringing history to life for all the family
The Bishop’s Palace & Gardens in Wells, Somerset, has been home to the Bishops of Bath and Wells for over 800 years and this stunning medieval Palace, with its 14 acres of RHS partner gardens, is open for all to enjoy.
For younger visitors there’s a large creative play area, The Dragon’s Lair, hidden in the Arboretum. From family and community days to historical re-enactments, exhibitions, theatre, concerts, workshops and daily tours or just an appreciation of our glorious gardens – there’s something for everyone.
What’s On at the Palace
What’s On at the Palace
Events
Events
Highlights
“There’s so much to see and do at the Palace!”
The Gardens
The 14 acres of gardens are a haven of tranquillity and peace. In January 2016, the Gardens were awarded RHS Partner Garden status.
The Bishop’s Palace
Home to the Bishops of Bath and Wells for over 800 years, this stunning medieval palace is open for all to enjoy.
The Bishop’s Table
Delicious locally-sourced homemade food and some of the best coffee and cake you’ll find in Wells, Somerset at the award-winning Bishop’s Table café.
Family Fun
We’ve got so much for families to do at The Bishop’s Palace and Gardens – whatever the weather, you can always have a great day out.
Events
Public Events and Festivals are at the heart of what we offer here. So whether you’re a theatre fan, garden enthusiast, family, art-lover, or exercise fanatic, you’ll find the perfect event to suit you below!
Swans
The tradition of the Swans on the Moat at The Bishop’s Palace dates back to the 1870’s when one of Bishop Hervey’s daughters first taught the swans to ring a bell at the Gatehouse for food.
Blog Posts & News
Blog Posts & News
Gardener’s Corner: April 2026
What a bumper spring again! It’s arrived very early and is very floriferous. The ground is slowly drying out and, despite...
Somerset MP visit to The Bishop’s Palace and Gardens in Wells highlights tourism’s role in local economy
Tessa Munt, MP for Wells and Mendip Hills, visited The Bishop’s Palace and Gardens on Saturday 14 March as part of...
The Bishop’s Palace to light up in support of Brain Tumour Awareness Month
The Bishop’s Palace will be illuminated in pink and yellow from 27 to 29 March as part of the national “Light Up the...
Gardener’s Corner: April 2026
What a bumper spring again! It’s arrived very early and is very floriferous. The...
Somerset MP visit to The Bishop’s Palace and Gardens in Wells highlights tourism’s role in local economy
Tessa Munt, MP for Wells and Mendip Hills, visited The Bishop’s Palace and...
The Bishop’s Palace to light up in support of Brain Tumour Awareness Month
The Bishop’s Palace will be illuminated in pink and yellow from 27 to 29 March as...
Eye In The Sky
EYE in the SKY
Videos
