Wells Cathedral is the place to be this August, offering a mix of cultural events and activities for visitors of all ages. With art exhibitions and inspiring musical performances, there's something for everyone to enjoy at this historic site.

Wells Art Contemporary Exhibition

The Wells Art Contemporary (WAC) exhibition kicks off on Saturday, 3 August, and runs through to Friday, 30 August. The Cathedral will host 120 contemporary artworks in a dedicated gallery within the Cloisters, providing an accessible opportunity to experience art in a historic setting. In addition, 19 site-specific installations will be placed inside and around the historic building, enhancing the experience for visitors. This year's exhibition also features three unique pieces created by local community art projects, showcasing the talent and creativity within the area. Admission to the exhibition is included with entry to the Cathedral.

Family Activities: August Art Adventures

For families, August Art Adventures offers an engaging way to explore art and history together. Taking place on selected dates throughout August, these drop-in sessions run from 10 a.m. to 12 noon and 1 p.m. to 3 p.m. Inspired by the Wells Art Contemporary installations, activities include creating giant nests, super-sized seeds, Cathedral graffiti, and guardian angels. There is no need to book, and admission is free with adult entry to the Cathedral.

Visiting Choirs and Performances

During the summer months of July to September, the Cathedral Choir takes a well-earned break. In their absence, Wells Cathedral welcomes a series of visiting choirs:

• 29 July to 4 August: Choir of Grace Church from Madison, New Jersey (excluding 1 August, which will feature a said evening prayer)
• 5 to 11 August: The Piedmont Singers from The Plains, Virginia
• 8 August: Choir of St John's Episcopal Church from Dallas, Texas
• 12 to 18 August: The Northern Concordia Singers
• 19 to 25 August: Coventry Cathedral Choir
• 30 August to 1 September: The Priory Singers
• 3 September: Choir of St John's, Glastonbury

Lunchtime Organ Recitals

Music lovers can also look forward to two lunchtime organ recitals in early August. On Wednesday, 7 August, Benjamin Kolodziej, an organist from Dallas, Texas, will perform a programme featuring works by Bach, Whitlock, Rheinberger, and Robert Anderson. The following day, Thursday, 8 August, Susan Carol Woodson, Organist-Titulaire of St Nicholas Church in Brussels, Belgium, will present pieces by Guilmant, Karg-Elert, Lemare, Vierne, and Dubois. These recitals begin at 1.05 p.m., and admission is free with Cathedral entry. A retiring collection will be held to support the Friends of Wells Cathedral Grand Organ Appeal.

Special Recital: 'To The Distant Beloved'

Looking ahead to September, the Cathedral will host a special recital titled 'To The Distant Beloved' on Tuesday, 10 September, at 7.30 p.m. in the North Transept. This event will feature a selection of German art songs and arias performed by operatic soprano and former Wells Chorister Sophie Gallagher, alongside baritone and Wells Vicar Choral William Drakett. Tickets are priced at £15 and can be purchased via Eventbrite, with all proceeds going to the Wells Cathedral Chorister Trust.