The Bishop's Table Café
The award-winning Bishop’s Table Café offers Afternoon Tea, all-day breakfasts, and fresh, locally sourced lunches in a historic setting in the heart of Wells.Open 9.30am – 4pm. Last orders 3.30pm. Food served until 2.30pm
*STOP PRESS* – we’re delighted to announce that the Bishop’s Table café has been awarded a prestigious Quality Food & Drink Accolade by VisitEngland. The Accolade is awarded in order to recognise the highest performing cafés within visitor attractions in the country and marks were allocated for the outstanding experiences provided to visitors across a number of different categories.
So, whether you’re exploring Wells or visiting the Palace, our café is the perfect place to enjoy delicious food with stunning views across the croquet lawn. It’s one of the best places to eat in Wells – ideal for relaxing with a barista-made coffee, a light lunch, or a traditional afternoon tea.
For a quicker bite, visit our Apple Store, where you can grab something tasty to enjoy as you explore 14 acres of RHS Partner Gardens or soak up the beauty of the Phelps Garden.
The café takes its name from a tradition started by Bishop Thomas Ken, who served as Bishop of Bath and Wells from 1685 to 1691. During his time at The Bishop’s Palace, Bishop Ken would invite twelve of the poorest men and women in Wells to dine with him at his table.
Serving delicious, locally sourced homemade food, The Bishop’s Table Café is one of the best places to eat in Wells. Whether you’re meeting friends for breakfast, lunch, coffee and cake, or a traditional Afternoon Tea, it’s the perfect spot to relax and enjoy fresh flavours in a beautiful historic setting.
Our takeaway packaging is made of Vegware and is compostable, biodegradable and eco-friendly.
Well-behaved dogs are welcome inside.
Contact The Bishop’s Table at 01749 988111.
New Winter Menu
We’re excited to announce our new Winter Menu, available from Monday, 3rd November.
Featuring hearty dishes and warming favourites, the new menu makes the most of local ingredients and produce.
Enjoy from the comfort of our award-winning café, or if you’re in a rush, takeaway options are available.
Please ask a member of staff if you wish to discuss allergens and dietary requirements.
Sunday Lunch in the Bishop’s Table
Enjoy Sunday Lunch in the award-winning Bishop’s Table, located in the free area of The Bishop’s Palace in Wells.
Choose a sitting time between 12pm and 2.30pm. A non-refundable £10 deposit will be taken when you book.
Download the Sunday Lunch menu HERE.
No admission ticket to the Palace & Gardens is required to book. If you don’t have a valid pass, half-price day tickets are available to purchase from the Ticket Office.
Festive Afternoon Teas
Enhance your visit to the Palace during the festive season with a delicious Festive Afternoon Tea in the Bishop’s Table café, overlooking the stunning Palace buildings and croquet lawn.
You’ll have a choice of sandwich plus home-made sausage rolls; honey-glazed pigs in blankets; Christmas cake; mini mince pie and scone. Your drink options include a regular breakfast tea or Americano or spoil yourself for £6.95 extra and go for a mini bottle of Prosecco.
Available on Sparkle Illuminations dates during two sittings from 9.30am-2.30pm and 4.00pm-6pm (bookable in hourly timeslots). Available from Saturday 29th November.
Please present the email confirmation on your phone or a printout at the restaurant counter upon arrival.
Festive Drinks Menu
Enjoy a delicious range of hot drinks, cold drinks and alcohol at The Bishop’s Table.
Takeaway options are available.
Secret Supper Club
The Secret Supper Club celebrates fresh, seasonal ingredients crafted into delicious dishes by the Palace’s expert catering team. Our menu is inspired by the finest locally sourced and homegrown produce, including from the Palace gardens.
Why Secret? You’ll be given a secret password that will allow you to enter via the ancient medieval gates before enjoying your meal!
- 8 January 2026
- 12 February 2026 – Valentine’s theme
- 12 March 2026
- 9 April 2026
- 14 May 2026
- 11 June 2026
- 9 July 2026
- 13 August 2026
- 10 September 2026
- 8 October 2026
- 12 November 2026
Food available from 7.30pm, last orders at 9pm.
3 courses. £35 per person
Please contact the café in advance to confirm your meal choice – the café can be contacted via 01749 988111 (option 3). Booking is essential – spaces are limited. A non-refundable £5 deposit per person is required to secure your booking.
Opening Times
April – October
- Monday – Saturday: 9.30am – 5.30pm (last orders 5pm) / Serving food from 9.30am – 3pm
- Sundays: 9.30am – 5.30pm (last orders 5pm) / Serving breakfast from 9.30am – 11am / Serving Sunday Lunch from 12pm – 2.30pm
January – March / November – December
- Monday – Saturday: 9.30am – 4pm (last orders 3.30pm) / Serving food from 9.30am – 2.30pm
- Sundays: 9.30am – 4pm (last orders 3.30pm)/ Serving breakfast from 9.30am – 11am / Serving Sunday Lunch from 12pm – 2.30pm
Explore The Bishop’s Table
