Hotels with memorable views are hardly lacking in Britain, but few can match the vision that awaits opposite The Swan Hotel in Wells. In England’s smallest cathedral city, the glorious 13th-century west front of Wells Cathedral – almost as wide as it is high and adorned with nearly 300 statues – directly faces the hotel. If you stay in one of the front rooms, or best of all in the huge and amazing Cathedral Suite, then the sight that greets you in the morning will stay long in your memory. Sharing that view is the divine Swan Terrace, open during summer for drinks and snacks in front of the hotel’s Georgian façade. Another al fresco café, the Walled Garden, is tucked away at the back. Inside, named after the extraordinary story (yours to discover) of the historic coaching inn, is Restaurant 15C A.D., noted for its excellent seasonal menus. View or no view, there are 50 romantic, individually designed and luxurious bedrooms. A gem.
Stroll around the beautiful city of Wells. Be sure to visit the cathedral, the Bishop’s Palace and Vicar’s Close.
Enjoy award-winning food in the hotel’s restaurant. Alternatively, soak up the view of Wells Cathedral on the front terrace with a lighter bite.
Choose a gin or two from the extensive menu (you’ll find over 100!) but don’t overindulge as you’ll want to experience the bi-weekly market and the range of independent shops.
Nota Bene
The city of Wells and the Hotel played host to the actors and featured in the Number 1 British Box Office hit film, Hot Fuzz.
