Wells Vicars’ Close works reveal medieval clues

By Laura Linham 20th Jul 2026

Local News by Laura Linham 20th Jul 2026

Scaffolding in Wells' Vicars' Close is marking a major step forward in conservation work on one of the city's best-known historic sites. The work forms part of the Vicars' Close Project, which Wells Cathedral describes as a once-in-a-generation effort to save the oldest medieval street in Europe still used for its original purpose.

The Very Revd Toby Wright, Dean of Wells, said the scaffolding has appeared over recent months as the building works move down the Close. He said the conservation programme is already revealing "fascinating insights" into the buildings and shedding new light on the site's medieval past.

The project includes a carefully managed programme of conservation work, with ecological protections and bat licences in place. As the scaffolding gradually moves along the street, the team is working to protect the fabric of the historic buildings while learning more about how they were built and used.

A new visitor experience is planned to open in 2027, telling the almost 700-year story of Vicars' Close and the people connected with it. Numbers 12 and 22 will house two interpretive experiences, taking visitors from the Close's medieval origins through to the present day.

Other spaces, including Vicars' Hall, are also expected to open to the public for the first time as part of the project. The cathedral says the wider creative programme is being shaped with communities across Somerset, including community choirs, paid placements for young people entering the heritage sector, artist residencies, workshops and other activity.

The Dean is also asking supporters to back the work by sponsoring a piece of the Close, from roof tiles to chimneys. Donations do not have to be tied to a specific part of the building, and Wells Cathedral says any gift will help support the conservation work and bring the history of the site to life.

In his appeal, the Dean said gifts will be match-funded up to £100,000, meaning donations can go further towards safeguarding Vicars' Close. He thanked supporters for being part of what he called "this incredible story".