Visit Vicars’ Close: England’s Hidden Medieval Street in Wells, Somerset
Tucked away in the charming cathedral city of Wells in Somerset lies a street so special, it’s often described as the oldest purely residential street in Europe. Welcome to Vicars’ Close – a place that looks like it’s been lifted straight out of the Middle Ages.
And thanks to this beautiful video (below), you can take a wander down it right now in preparation for when you visit Vicars’ Close in real life.
What Makes Vicars’ Close So Special?
What makes Vicars’ Close unique isn’t just the fact it’s incredibly well-preserved, but that it’s still lived in today. Unlike many heritage sites that have become museums or static attractions, this little cobbled lane continues to serve the same purpose it did when it was first built back in the 14th century.
The houses were originally built for the Vicars Choral – the men who sang daily services in the magnificent Wells Cathedral next door. Even now, centuries later, the homes are still occupied by people connected with the cathedral. That continuity gives the place an atmosphere you just can’t manufacture.
A Perfectly Preserved Medieval Street
The street is only about 140 metres long, but every step feels rich with history. Uniform rows of stone houses line either side, each topped with tall chimneys that point skyward. Look closely and you’ll notice something clever: the street narrows slightly as you walk north, creating the illusion of it being longer than it really is. Medieval builders knew a thing or two about perspective!
At the northern end of the Close, you’ll find a chapel, hall and library that once completed the self-contained community. To the south, the covered Chain Gate connects Vicars’ Close directly to Wells Cathedral, so the Vicars Choral could attend services without braving the weather.
Living History in Wells
Watching the video, it’s easy to imagine the sound of footsteps echoing on the cobbles, or the chants of the choir drifting across from the cathedral. Vicars’ Close feels like a living time capsule – a place where medieval life continues quietly into the present.
But this isn’t a frozen relic. People still live here. The houses are carefully maintained to ensure they remain habitable, with restoration work tackling roofs, chimneys, drainage and even insulation. This dedication ensures Vicars’ Close will remain a lived-in medieval street, rather than just another tourist photo stop.
Why You Should Visit Vicars’ Close
If you’re visiting Wells, Somerset, Vicars’ Close is just a few steps from the cathedral and absolutely worth adding to your itinerary. You don’t need a ticket, and because it’s still a residential street, you can simply wander down, admire the architecture, and soak up the atmosphere.
Pair it with a visit to Wells Cathedral, the Bishop’s Palace, and the lively market square, and you’ve got a perfect day out in one of England’s most charming small cities.
Whether you’re planning a trip to Wells or just love a bit of English history from afar, the video above is a wonderful way to get a feel for the place. It captures Vicars’ Close in all its quiet beauty, and might just inspire you to add it to your next Somerset itinerary.
After all, there aren’t many streets in England where you can stand in the 21st century while feeling so deeply connected to the 14th.
