Lectures and Workshops
We are thrilled to offer a variety of fascinating lectures and engaging workshops in Somerset throughout the year. Nestled within our 800-year-old Palace and surrounded by 14 acres of stunning RHS partner gardens, it’s the perfect setting to delve into history or unleash your creativity!
Our Palace Lectures, a series of talks held year-round, cover a wide array of intriguing topics. Delivered by historians, gardeners, and subject experts, these events offer a unique opportunity to learn and be inspired in the heart of Wells, Somerset.
Heritage Open Days: Palace Architecture Talk
- Tuesday, 16th September 2025
- 4pm – 5pm
Join one of our expert guides as they take you on a fascinating tour of the architecture of the Palace buildings as part of the National Heritage Open Days scheme.
This is a free guided talk – it does not include entry to the wider gardens – please meet your guide outside the café 5 minutes before the talk begins.
Free Entry – Limited Capacity
Palace Lecture: Yeovil Metal Detecting Club
- Weds 17th September | 6.15pm – 7.15pm, gates open 6pm
Formed in 1978, YMDC are an avid group of metal detectorists who share a passion for uncovering the history of the South West and artefacts from yesteryear. They’ll be talking about the club, the hobby and showing off some of the things they’ve discovered.
The talk lasts around 30 minutes then there will be time for questions.
The Palace Lectures are a series of talks across the year. Covering an assortment of intriguing and interesting topics the talks are delivered by historians, gardeners and subject experts.
- Adult – £5
- Student – £4
- Member/Friend – Free
Gardening in an Environmentally Conscious Way – Walk & Talk with our Head Gardener
- Tues 14th October | 6.15pm – 7.15pm, gates open 6pm
In association with Wells Environment Week
Join James for a walk and talk, he’ll tell you about the gardening techniques being used at The Bishop’s Palace. Learn about what the team is doing to work in a more sustainable way and how they are having to adapt to our ever-changing climate.
Limited spaces available.
Workshop: Chalk Pastels of Autumn Produce
- Friday, 24th October 2025 | 10.30am – 3.30pm (1 hour lunch break 12.30pm – 1.30pm)
Join us for a creative session focused on seasonal chalk pastel drawings featuring autumnal produce. This workshop offers a hands-on introduction to chalk pastels, guiding you through the process of developing tone, depth, and detail in your artwork. Participants will learn essential techniques tailored for beginners, making it a perfect opportunity to explore your artistic side. All materials will be provided. Enjoy the vibrant colours of autumn while enhancing your artistic skills.
Lunch is not included; participants are welcome to bring their own packed lunch or purchase lunch from The Bishop’s Table on site.
Workshop provided by Gemma Lane from Green Fox Workshops.
Tickets
- Standard – £55
- Friends of the Palace – £50