St Cuthbert's Church Wells
A magnificent medieval parish church in Wells, renowned for its stunning painted ceiling and free entry, offering a rich historical experience.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
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From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Tower tours available
St Cuthbert's Church Wells
Best Time
Tower tours available
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A magnificent medieval parish church in Wells, renowned for its stunning painted ceiling and free entry, offering a rich historical experience.
"Free to visit unlike the Cathedral, which was scandalous at £15 per person. Just make a donation, if you are able to."
Free Entry, Donations Welcome
Unlike the Cathedral, entry is free! Consider a donation to help with upkeep. :heart:
Book Tower Tours in Advance
Tower tours are limited, especially in August. Email ahead to secure your spot! :ticket:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Magnificent Painted Ceiling
Nave
Prepare to be amazed by the intricate and vibrant painted ceiling, a true masterpiece of medieval artistry.
Somerset's Tallest Tower
Tower
Climb to the top of the tallest tower in Somerset for unparalleled views of Wells and the surrounding countryside.
Hot Fuzz Filming Location
Exterior
Fans of the cult classic 'Hot Fuzz' will recognize this beautiful parish church from memorable scenes in the film.
Beautiful Tiled Floor
Nave
Admire the intricate and well-preserved tiled floor, adding another layer of historical charm to the interior.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Skip the Cathedral Crowds, Embrace St. Cuthbert's
Tower Tours: Book Ahead for Views
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Free Entry, Donations Welcome
Unlike the Cathedral, entry is free! Consider a donation to help with upkeep. :heart:
Book Tower Tours in Advance
Tower tours are limited, especially in August. Email ahead to secure your spot! :ticket:
Don't Mistake for Cathedral
It's a stunning parish church, not the main Cathedral! Enjoy its unique charm. :bulb:
Enjoy the Cafe
The onsite cafe offers delicious cream teas and friendly service. :coffee:
Tips
from all over the internet
Free Entry, Donations Welcome
Unlike the Cathedral, entry is free! Consider a donation to help with upkeep. :heart:
Book Tower Tours in Advance
Tower tours are limited, especially in August. Email ahead to secure your spot! :ticket:
Don't Mistake for Cathedral
It's a stunning parish church, not the main Cathedral! Enjoy its unique charm. :bulb:
Enjoy the Cafe
The onsite cafe offers delicious cream teas and friendly service. :coffee:
Street Parking Available
Limited free street parking is often available nearby for an hour. :car:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise St Cuthbert's Church for its stunning, free-to-enter interior, particularly its magnificent painted ceiling and beautiful tiled floor. Many appreciate it as a less crowded and more affordable alternative to Wells Cathedral, with the tower tour offering spectacular views. Some visitors initially mistake it for the Cathedral, highlighting its impressive scale.
"What a place. Free to visit unlike the Cathedral, which was scandalousat £15 per person. Just make a donation, if you are able to. One of the best ceilings I have seen. A must see, when visiting Wells."
N K
"A beautiful church in Wells. We did the tower tour which was £4 per person and you get to see great views of Wells and have a go ringing the bells. (The tower tour is only on Sundays in August and you should book in advance via their email address).
The church is notable for it's appearance in Hot Fuzz and features a stunning painted ceiling.
We visited the cafe afterwards and had some cream teas which were delicious. The staff were really friendly and knowledgeable about the church and its history."
James
"Beautiful interior steeped in history, like much of Wells, with lots of unusual artifacts to see and saviour. We met a Dutch couple who thought it was Wells Cathedral! We put them right. Free street parking outside for an hour."
Mimi Villaret
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
St Cuthbert's Church is located in the heart of Wells, Somerset. It's easily accessible on foot from the city center and Wells Cathedral. If driving, there is limited free street parking available for up to an hour nearby.
Yes, St Cuthbert's Church is very close to Wells Cathedral, often mistaken for it due to its impressive size and architecture. It's a short walk between the two.
While specific hours can vary, St Cuthbert's Church is generally open during daylight hours for visitors to explore its interior. It's best to check locally or visit during typical daytime hours.
There is limited free street parking available outside the church for approximately one hour. For longer stays, you may need to use nearby public car parks in Wells.
Wells is served by bus routes, and St Cuthbert's Church is centrally located within the city, making it accessible once you arrive in Wells. Check local bus schedules for routes to Wells.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, unlike Wells Cathedral, St Cuthbert's Church is free to enter. Visitors are encouraged to make a donation to help with the ongoing maintenance of this historic building.
The tower tour at St Cuthbert's Church costs approximately £4 per person. This includes a chance to see great views and ring the bells.
Tower tours are typically only available on Sundays in August. It is highly recommended to book these in advance via email.
Advance booking for the tower tour is usually done via email. It's advisable to contact the church directly to confirm booking procedures and availability.
Donations are not required but are greatly welcomed. Medieval churches like St Cuthbert's have significant maintenance costs, and any contribution helps preserve it. +1
🎫 ✨ Onsite Experience
Inside, you'll find a stunning painted ceiling, a beautiful tiled floor, and various unusual artifacts. It's a smaller scale than the Cathedral but rich in history and detail. +1
Absolutely! St Cuthbert's offers a different, more intimate experience. Its free entry and unique features like the painted ceiling make it a worthwhile visit. +1
The tower is the tallest in Somerset and offers fantastic panoramic views of Wells. The tour also provides an opportunity to ring the bells. +1
Yes, St Cuthbert's Church was featured in the popular film 'Hot Fuzz', making it a point of interest for fans of the movie.
Yes, there is a cafe onsite where you can enjoy cream teas. Restroom facilities may also be available, though it's best to inquire upon arrival.
📸 📸 Photography
Photography is generally permitted inside St Cuthbert's Church for personal use. However, it's always polite to be discreet and avoid flash photography, especially during services.
The painted ceiling is a must-photograph subject. The tiled floor and the overall architecture also make for beautiful shots.
Drone photography is generally not permitted over churches or within city centers without specific permissions. Always check local regulations before flying a drone.
Weekday mornings often offer softer light and fewer crowds, which can be ideal for photography. The interior lighting can also create dramatic effects.
Yes, the tower tour offers excellent opportunities for panoramic photos of Wells and the surrounding Somerset landscape.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
While the tower tour might be too strenuous or fear-inducing for very young children, the main church area is spacious enough for them to explore respectfully. The onsite cafe is also a good spot for a treat after visiting. Consider it a pleasant, low-key stop on your Wells itinerary.
💰 Budget Travelers
It provides a fantastic alternative to the paid entry of Wells Cathedral, offering comparable beauty and historical depth. The cafe is also reasonably priced for a cream tea, offering a delightful local experience without breaking the bank.
🎬 Movie Buffs
See the church that appeared on screen and imagine the scenes being filmed. It's a unique opportunity to connect with the movie's charm and explore a piece of its real-world backdrop.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Architectural Marvel of St Cuthbert's
The interior is particularly renowned for its stunning painted ceiling, a vibrant display of medieval artistry that draws many visitors. Alongside this, the beautifully tiled floor adds another layer of historical and visual appeal. These elements make St Cuthbert's a significant site for those interested in church architecture and heritage.
While often overshadowed by the grandeur of Wells Cathedral, St Cuthbert's offers a more intimate and accessible experience. Its status as an excellent parish church means it remains a vital part of the local community, while also welcoming tourists eager to explore its historical treasures.
Experiencing the Tower Tour
It's important to note that these tours have specific availability, often limited to Sundays in August, and require advance booking via email. This exclusivity adds to the special nature of the experience, ensuring a more personal and less crowded ascent. The cost is modest, making it an excellent value for the memorable views and unique activity.
Visitors who have taken the tour often rave about the thrill of ringing the bells and the breathtaking scenery. It's a highly recommended activity for those looking to add an element of adventure and a memorable photo opportunity to their visit to St Cuthbert's.
St Cuthbert's in Popular Culture
The church's exterior and perhaps some interior shots were used in the film, adding to its charm and appeal for a wider audience. For those who appreciate the quirky humor and memorable characters of 'Hot Fuzz', a visit to St Cuthbert's offers a chance to connect with the film's world.
While the church is a functioning place of worship and a historical monument, its role in 'Hot Fuzz' provides an additional layer of interest, drawing in visitors who might not otherwise seek out a parish church. It’s a testament to how historical sites can resonate with contemporary audiences through various media.
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from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit