The Bishops Palace Houses

More than simply an historic house and garden, this splendid medieval Palace has been the home of the Bishops of Bath and Wells for 800 years. There are 14 acres of gardens including the springs from which the city takes its name. Visitors can also see the Bishop's private Chapel, ruined Great Hall and the Gatehouse with portcullis and drawbridge beside which the famous mute swans ring a bell for food.

The Bishop's Palace in Wells dates from the early-thirteenth century when Bishop Jocelin Trotman, the first Bishop to hold the title Bishop of Bath and Wells, received a crown licence to build a residence and deer park on land to the south of the Cathedral of St Andrew. Visitors entering through the central porch step back almost 800 years into Bishop Jocelin's vaulted Entrance Hall.

The gardens at the Bishop's Palace are a haven of tranquillity and peace. Visitors are free to wander over the lawns past flower-beds, specimen trees and shrubs.

There is evidence that a garden existed here even before Bishop Jocelin began work on the palace c.1206. Over the years the gardens have changed as successive bishops have added their legacy.

The licensed restaurant is situated in the Medieval Undercroft.

To book a table please telephone the Restaurant on 01749 679494

As members of Taste of the West, the Palace restaurant supports local growers and suppliers. All the food is freshly prepared on the premises.