Visitors to Wells' iconic Bishops Palace will soon be welcomed through a brand-new ticket office and shop after plans to convert the site's education centre were approved by Somerset Council.

The upgrade will see the current education room transformed into a more accessible entrance space, with changes to the glazed front screen and a new doorway created at the rear to open directly onto the South Lawn.

The Bishops Palace Trust, which submitted the plans, said the move will make the Grade I listed site easier to navigate—particularly for visitors using wheelchairs or mobility scooters—and boost income to help preserve the centuries-old landmark.

In planning documents, the current set-up was described as "woefully limiting", with the new layout offering improved access, clearer flow through the grounds, and a level-floored shop space with wider entrances.

Architects Benjamin & Beauchamp, who drew up the plans, said the changes have been carefully designed to minimise impact on the Palace's historic fabric. The south wall being altered was described as "low value", with previous signs of rebuilding, and the new door will be screened from key views by mature planting and the Great Hall itself.

The Palace Trust had previously secured permission for a separate reception building in the forecourt, but now say the education centre revamp offers a far cheaper, lower-carbon alternative. The new scheme is expected to cost significantly less than the £250,000 estimate for the standalone structure.

Trust bosses say the change will directly support their charitable goals by improving visitor experience and generating extra retail income, which will be reinvested into the upkeep of the building and gardens.

Historic England backed the revised approach.

There will be no changes to the surrounding planting or the building's roof, and the existing gravel surface by the new rear doorway will remain in place.