Wells and Mendip Museum
Discover local history, geology, and art at this charming museum, a stone's throw from Wells Cathedral.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more relaxed
Wells and Mendip Museum
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more relaxed
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Discover local history, geology, and art at this charming museum, a stone's throw from Wells Cathedral.
"A well worth visit, very informative and interesting with a lovely garden."
Engage with Staff
Staff are very knowledgeable and can offer great insights into displays. Ask questions!
Combine with Cathedral Visit
It's right across from Wells Cathedral, making it easy to visit both in one trip.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Mendip Mining & Caves
Geology Room
Explore fascinating exhibits on Mendip lead mining and the thrilling world of cave diving.
Local Artist Showcase
Temporary Exhibition Space
Discover diverse artworks by local artists, often featured in temporary exhibitions.
The Trenches Experience
WWI Exhibit
Step back in time with an immersive display recreating the atmosphere of WWI trenches.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing Your Visit
Accessibility Notes
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Engage with Staff
Staff are very knowledgeable and can offer great insights into displays. Ask questions!
Combine with Cathedral Visit
It's right across from Wells Cathedral, making it easy to visit both in one trip.
Check for Events
The museum hosts fairs and workshops; check their schedule for unique experiences.
Allow ample time
You might be surprised by how much there is to explore inside.
Tips
from all over the internet
Engage with Staff
Staff are very knowledgeable and can offer great insights into displays. Ask questions!
Combine with Cathedral Visit
It's right across from Wells Cathedral, making it easy to visit both in one trip.
Check for Events
The museum hosts fairs and workshops; check their schedule for unique experiences.
Allow ample time
You might be surprised by how much there is to explore inside.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors generally find the Wells and Mendip Museum to be an informative and interesting stop, especially when combined with the nearby cathedral. While many praise the engaging exhibits on local history, geology, and the WWI trench, a few have noted unwelcoming staff and accessibility challenges due to the historic building's layout.
"If visiting Wells, you must pop in this museum, it is well worth a visit. £6 entry, I was there for about 2 hours, it was very informative and interesting. There is a garden area with benches, toilets, and a small shop. The museum is next to Wells Cathedral, which is a must visit, along with Bishop's Palace just under the archway."
Matthew Young (Urban Tiger)
"We happened to spot this museum as we were exploring Wells Cathedral. The museum is across the road from the cathedral.
We were welcomed into the museum by a lovely lady, who gave us some information as to the displays in each room and in which order to visit them.
There are some permanent and some temporary displays. One room houses mined objects such as Mendip lead and other minerals, another display provides details about cave diving, and there was a display of pictures by local artists.
It is a lovely little museum. Admission is £6 per adult, and there are concessions for children and students. A family ticket is also available for £12.
Accessibility isn't very good as the building is a converted house. Some parts are quite narrow, and there are stairs to the upper rooms."
Rebecca Harvey
"Have visited Wells many times but never been in this small museum. I wish I hadn't bothered. Was met by 2 very unfriendly and unwelcoming staff at the front desk who looked bored. I paid my £6 and they just remained silent. No information was offered on how to look around the museum, where to start or even what there was in there. Also, some of the display rooms were closed or in darkness. Didn't enjoy my visit at all, was slightly shocked by the experience."
T White
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The museum is conveniently located in Wells, directly opposite the Wells Cathedral. If arriving by car, there are several car parks in Wells, with the nearest being the Southover Car Park. Public transport options include local bus services that stop in Wells city centre.
Yes, there are several car parks in Wells. Southover Car Park is a short walk away. Some street parking may be available but can be limited, especially during peak tourist times.
Absolutely! The Wells and Mendip Museum is situated directly across the road from Wells Cathedral, making it incredibly easy to access on foot.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Admission is £6 for adults, with concessions available for children and students. A family ticket is priced at £12. Prices are subject to change, so it's always good to check their official website or inquire upon arrival.
Generally, advance booking is not required for general admission. However, for special events or workshops, booking might be necessary. It's advisable to check their website or contact them directly if you plan to attend a specific event.
Opening hours can vary seasonally. It's best to check the Wells and Mendip Museum's official website for the most up-to-date information on opening times and any potential closures.
Yes, concessions are available for children and students. Family tickets are also offered, providing a cost-effective option for groups. Details can be found on their website or at the museum entrance.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
The museum features a diverse range of exhibits, including local history, geological artifacts from the Mendip Hills (like lead mining and cave diving), and displays of work by local artists. There's also a WWI trench recreation and often temporary exhibitions.
Yes, the museum offers elements that can appeal to children, such as dressing-up opportunities and the immersive cave-like environment. The variety of exhibits can keep younger visitors engaged.
The museum is housed in a converted historic building, which means accessibility can be challenging. Some areas are narrow, and there are stairs to upper rooms. Visitors with mobility concerns may find certain sections difficult to navigate.
Yes, there is a garden area with benches where visitors can relax. It provides a pleasant space to take a break during your visit.
The museum offers toilet facilities and a small gift shop. The garden area also provides a space to rest.
📸 📸 Photography
Photography policies can vary. Generally, personal photography for non-commercial use is often permitted, but it's best to check for any specific restrictions or ask staff upon arrival to ensure you comply with their guidelines.
The WWI trench recreation offers a unique and atmospheric setting for photos. Exhibits on local geology and art displays can also be visually interesting.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Parents often appreciate the chance to combine a visit with nearby attractions like Wells Cathedral, making for a well-rounded day out. The garden area also provides a nice spot for a break. Remember to be mindful of the building's historic nature regarding accessibility for strollers or very young children.
🚶 Day-Trippers from Bristol
Allocate a couple of hours to explore the exhibits, especially the unique geological displays and the WWI trench. Its proximity to the cathedral means you can easily tick off two major attractions in one visit, making your day trip efficient and enriching. Consider visiting on a weekday to enjoy a more peaceful experience.
🏛️ History Enthusiasts
Beyond geology, the displays on local history and the WWI trench recreation offer further layers of historical exploration. The knowledgeable staff can also provide valuable context and answer detailed questions, enhancing the experience for serious history buffs.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring Mendip's Rich History
Beyond mining, the museum also highlights the adventurous realm of cave diving. These exhibits offer a glimpse into the challenges and discoveries made by explorers in the region's extensive cave systems. The combination of mining and caving history provides a comprehensive look at the human interaction with the Mendip landscape over centuries.
Real visitors often express surprise at the depth of information available, especially regarding the geological and industrial history. The staff's knowledge is frequently praised, adding a personal touch to the learning experience.
Artistic Expressions and Community
Beyond static displays, the Wells and Mendip Museum actively engages with the community through various events and workshops. These can include creative projects, calligraphy exhibitions, and even Christmas fairs, fostering a vibrant connection between the museum and its visitors.
+1 This community focus means that a visit can often coincide with a special event, adding an extra layer of interest to your trip.These community-focused events are often highlighted on social media, with creators sharing their experiences and showcasing the diverse activities available. This makes the museum feel like a living, breathing hub of local culture rather than just a repository of artifacts.
Immersive Historical Recreations
This hands-on approach to history extends to other areas, with elements designed to engage visitors of all ages. For instance, there are often opportunities for dressing up and interactive displays that make learning about the past more tangible and fun, especially for younger visitors.
The combination of historical artifacts and these immersive recreations creates a memorable visit, allowing people to connect with history on a deeper level. The museum's ability to offer these varied experiences is a key reason why many find it a worthwhile stop when visiting Wells.
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