Driving Distance: About 9 minutes | Sleeps: 4 | Pet friendly? No
What to expect: At Burcott Country Retreats, guests can indulge in the tranquility of a family-run organic farm, offering two sumptuous lodges with panoramic views of Glastonbury Tor and the lush Somerset landscape.
Who will love these lodges? Perfect for families and couples seeking a serene escape, these lodges provide a luxurious base to explore England’s smallest city, Wells, and its historic landmarks. The absence of pets ensures a peaceful environment for all guests.
What can you do here? Anything onsite? Guests can unwind on their private decking, enjoy a barbecue, or stroll to the nearby village of Wookey. While there’s no on-site restaurant, the local pubs offer delightful dining options.
What’s nearby? Nearby attractions include the Mendip Hills, Wookey Hole Caves, and Cheddar Gorge. Burnham on Sea is a mere 16 miles away, offering coastal beauty and activities.
Accommodation options: The Haven and The Hideaway lodges cater to groups and families of up to four, with luxurious amenities and spacious decking areas for outdoor enjoyment. However, these lodges are not pet friendly.
Driving Distance: About 10 minutes | Sleeps: 6 | Pet friendly? No
What to expect: Mendip View at Wookey Hole offers a luxurious caravan experience with the unique backdrop of the Wookey Hole Caves and attractions, complete with a hot tub to relax in after a day of exploration.
Who will love these lodges? This location is a hit with families and adventure seekers, providing direct access to the Wookey Hole Caves and the Mendip Hills. The hot tub is a standout feature for relaxation.
What can you do here? Anything onsite? The site is within the grounds of the Wookey Hole Caves and Attractions, offering a plethora of activities. Dining options are available in the village, with a focus on local produce and traditional dishes.
What’s nearby? Cheddar Gorge is 8 miles away, and the historic town of Glastonbury is also within easy reach. For city life, Bath and Bristol are 20 miles away, and the beaches of Burnham-on-Sea and Weston-Super-Mare are perfect for day trips.
Accommodation options: The Ivy accommodation sleeps up to six guests in a spacious lodge with a verandah and hot tub. Ideal for families, these lodges offer a luxurious stay, though pets are not allowed.
Driving Distance: About 15 minutes | Sleeps: 4 | Pet friendly? Yes
What to expect: Spindlewood Lodges is a charming collection of seven Scandinavian log cabins, nestled in 10 acres of pastoral land, offering south-facing verandahs to soak up the countryside and views of Glastonbury Tor.
Who will love these lodges? Ideal for those seeking peace and quiet, these lodges are great for families and couples. The pet-friendly option makes it a welcoming retreat for guests with furry friends.
What can you do here? Anything onsite? The lodges provide a tranquil setting with plenty of outdoor space for relaxation and play. While there are no on-site dining facilities, the lodges are equipped for self-catering.
What’s nearby? The location is perfect for exploring Wells, Cheddar Gorge and Caves, Wookey Hole, Longleat House and Safari Park, and the historic Glastonbury Abbey and Tor. Bath is also within driving distance.
Accommodation options: Spindlewood Lodges offer a choice of pet-friendly and non-pet-friendly cabins, each sleeping up to four guests. The lodges do not have hot tubs, emphasising the natural beauty and tranquility of the setting.
Driving Distance: About 13 minutes | Sleeps: 6 | Pet friendly? Yes
What to expect: Bucklegrove Holiday Park is nestled in the Mendip Hills, offering stunning views and a range of facilities including an indoor pool, café, bar, and children’s play area, with some accommodations featuring hot tubs.
Who will love these lodges? This park is a haven for families and couples, with its indoor pool and play area for children, and hot tubs for adults to unwind. Pet-friendly options make it ideal for visitors with dogs.
What can you do here? Anything onsite? Guests can enjoy the indoor pool, dine at the café, bar and grill, and take advantage of the discounts at Wookey Hole Cave. Wi-Fi is available in designated areas.
What’s nearby? The park is conveniently located for visiting Wookey Hole Caves, Cheddar Gorge, and the historical towns of Glastonbury and Bath. The coast is also within reach for beach outings.
Accommodation options: Bucklegrove offers a variety of accommodations, including modern caravans and luxurious lodges with hot tubs. Options are available for up to six guests, with pet-friendly and non-pet-friendly choices.
What to do on a family or couple’s hot tub break in Wells
Nestled in the heart of South West England, the city of Wells in Somerset is a hidden gem that offers a tranquil retreat for both families and couples. Known for its stunning architecture, rich history, and picturesque landscapes, Wells provides a diverse range of activities that cater to all ages and interests. Whether you’re looking to explore the great outdoors, delve into the past, or simply relax in a hot tub under the stars, this charming city has something for everyone.
Sightseeing in Wells
Wells, the smallest city in England, is steeped in history and brimming with cultural attractions. Sightseeing in Wells is like stepping back in time, with its cobbled streets and medieval buildings providing a storybook setting for your visit. The city’s compact size makes it perfect for leisurely exploration, ensuring that you can soak up its unique atmosphere without the rush.
Top 5 attractions you have to see in Wells
When visiting Wells, there are several must-see attractions that encapsulate the city’s essence and charm. Here are the top five:
Wells Cathedral
At the heart of the city lies the magnificent Wells Cathedral, with its stunning Gothic architecture and the famous scissor arches. Visitors can marvel at the intricate carvings, stained glass windows, and the impressive clock, which is one of the oldest in the world still in operation. Admission is free, but donations are welcome. Check the official website for opening times and special events.
The Bishop’s Palace and Gardens
Adjacent to the cathedral is The Bishop’s Palace, a historic home to the Bishops of Bath and Wells for over 800 years. Explore the medieval palace, chapel, and the 14 acres of stunning gardens, including the well pools that give the city its name. Admission prices vary, with family tickets available for better value. Visit the official website for more information.
Vicars’ Close
Claimed to be the oldest purely residential street with original buildings surviving intact in Europe, Vicars’ Close is a picturesque street that’s a stone’s throw from the cathedral. It’s a perfect spot for photography and a peaceful stroll. Access is free.
Wells Market
For those who love to shop locally, the Wells Market takes place twice a week in the Market Place, offering a variety of fresh produce, crafts, and other goods. It’s a great place to sample local Somerset delicacies. No entrance fee is required, and the market usually runs on Wednesdays and Saturdays.
Ebbor Gorge
Just a short drive from Wells, Ebbor Gorge is a lesser-known natural wonder managed by the National Trust. It’s ideal for a family hike or a romantic walk, with breathtaking views across the Mendip Hills. Free to visit, but donations are appreciated for maintenance.
Good to Know…
| 1. Wells Cathedral often hosts concerts and events, so check the schedule in advance. |
| 2. The Bishop’s Palace has a delightful café, perfect for a light lunch or afternoon tea. |
| 3. Vicars’ Close is still home to members of the cathedral choir, so please respect their privacy. |
| 4. Parking in Wells can be limited, so consider using public transport or park-and-ride services. |
| 5. Many shops in Wells are independent, so it’s a great opportunity to find unique gifts. |
| 6. The city is compact, making it ideal for walking; comfortable shoes are a must. |
| 7. Ebbor Gorge has no facilities, so bring water and snacks for your visit. |
| 8. Wells Market is a cash-only market, so come prepared with some coins and notes. |
| 9. Check local listings for special events like the Wells Food Festival or the Wells Literature Festival. |
| 10. If you’re staying in a lodge with a hot tub, book activities early to ensure you have plenty of relaxation time. |
5 detailed Wells visitor FAQs
Q: What is the best time of year to visit Wells?
A: Wells is beautiful year-round, but spring and summer offer the best weather for exploring. The city also hosts various festivals and events during these seasons.
Q: Are there any family-friendly activities in Wells?
A: Absolutely, from exploring the Bishop’s Palace and Gardens to enjoying a picnic at Ebbor Gorge, there are plenty of activities for families to enjoy.
Q: Can you recommend any romantic activities for couples?
A: A stroll down Vicars’ Close or a candlelit dinner in one of Wells’ quaint restaurants can be very romantic. Additionally, many lodges offer private hot tubs for a cosy night in.
Q: Is Wells suitable for visitors with mobility issues?
A: Wells is relatively accessible, with most attractions within walking distance. However, some historic sites may have limited access, so it’s best to check in advance.
Q: Are there any good dining options in Wells?
A: Wells boasts a variety of dining options, from traditional pubs serving Somerset cider and ales to fine dining restaurants offering locally sourced produce.
Some helpful links
Whether you’re soaking in the history or the hot tub, Wells in Somerset offers an enchanting escape for families and couples alike. With its rich tapestry of attractions, Wells invites you to unwind and explore at your own pace, ensuring a memorable and rejuvenating break in the heart of South West England.
