Heritage Courtyard Gallery and Studios

You'll find working artists and craftspeople in this courtyard gallery just a stone's throw from Wells Cathedral - it's the sort of place that rewards an hour's wandering rather than a quick five-minute look. The studios are spread across converted period buildings, and you get to see potters, painters, and jewellers actually making things rather than just gazing at finished work behind glass. There's proper substance to it.

It works brilliantly if you're staying at Cathedral View Glamping or Wells Touring Park and want something to fill a rainy afternoon. Kids often perk up watching someone throw clay on a wheel, though teenagers might find it a bit slow. The real draw here is the authenticity - these are actual working spaces, not a sanitised heritage attraction. Prices vary depending on what catches your eye, but browsing the courtyard itself costs nothing.

Wells itself is compact enough to explore in a morning, so this gallery pairs well with a wander round the cathedral and the bishop's palace. If you're based further out at Cheddar or one of the other parks, it's worth the drive for a couple of hours. Go mid-week if you can - weekends bring coach parties. Allow at least ninety minutes if you want to chat with any of the artists; they're usually approachable and genuinely interested in talking about their work.