New Life on the Moat: Five Cygnets Hatch at The Bishop’s Palace, Wells

Spring has arrived at The Bishop’s Palace in Wells, as five cygnets have hatched on the Palace moat.

The tiny arrivals were spotted on the nest of the Palace’s famous resident swans, Grace and Gabriel, delighting staff, volunteers and online viewers alike. The much-anticipated moment was confirmed by Moira Anderson, affectionately known as the Palace’s ‘Swan Whisperer’, who has been closely monitoring the nest via the site’s popular 24-hour Swan Cam.

This year, the swans chose a nesting spot beside the moat near the Palace offices, offering a safe and sheltered environment. The five new arrivals have been exploring their new home and have already been spotted enjoying life around the moat.

The arrival of the cygnets marks a special moment in the Palace calendar and continues a long-standing connection between the historic site and its swans, which have been part of life at the moat for generations.

Further updates, including the popular cygnet naming competition, will be shared on the Palace’s social media channels and website.

The Bishop’s Palace and Gardens is a historic site in the heart of Wells, managed by The Palace Trust, a registered charity.