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England's earliest Gothic cathedral in England's smallest city. The architecture is jaw-dropping, there's a medieval clock with jousting knights, and the whole area is absolutely beautiful.
ells is one of those places that makes you feel like you've stepped back in time. It's officially England's smallest city, and the cathedral at its heart is absolutely stunning – built between 1175 and 1490, it's the earliest English cathedral in the Gothic style. Even if you're not usually one for churches, this one's special.
The West Front alone is worth the trip – nearly 300 medieval carved figures covering the entire facade. Inside, look out for the famous scissor arches (you'll know them when you see them – they're the giant figure-of-eight shapes holding up the tower) and the medieval astronomical clock. Every quarter hour, little jousting knights appear and one of them gets knocked off his horse. Visitors literally stand and wait for it – it's been entertaining people since the 1300s.
While you're there, have a wander down Vicar's Close – it's believed to be the oldest complete medieval street in Europe, and it's gorgeous. The Bishop's Palace next door is worth a look too if you've got time.
Wells itself has some nice independent shops and cafés, so make an afternoon of it. Just don't fill up on cathedral café cake when there's sticky toffee pudding waiting for you back here!
England's longest heritage railway – 20 miles of stunning Somerset scenery by steam train. Chug along the coast to Minehead, hop off at pretty villages, and there's a buffet car serving proper Somerset cider.
One of the best-preserved Roman sites in the world, right here in Somerset. Two thousand years of history, steaming hot springs, and you can still taste the water if you're brave enough.
Europe's largest collection of naval aircraft, including Concorde. You can walk through an aircraft carrier, watch real jets taking off next door, and easily spend a whole day here.
