“Stunningly located old coaching inn opposite Wells Cathedral. Opulent rooms mix tradition with contemporary. Gold embellished wallpaper, chintz fabrics and some have free standing copper baths. Contemporary British fare served in an oak paneled room. Ideal for exploring Wells and its surrounds.”

Hotel review

Hotels with memorable views are hardly lacking in Britain, but few can match that of the Swan, where the whole glorious 13th century west front of Wells Cathedral fills the windows of the front bedrooms, which include the dramatic Cathedral Suite and a pretty, affordable rooms above. Ongoing refurbishment is making this old coaching inn, stunningly set overlooking the cathedral and its green, a great place from which to discover the delights of Wells, often in the shadow of nearby Bath but equally beautiful in its way.

Fiona Duncan
Fiona Duncan Review published: 02/26/2024

Recommended for

  • Romantic Break

    • Original four poster beds, log fires and views of Wells Cathedral combine to create this unique and utterly romantic getaway.
  • Local exploring

    • Well situated to explore the small historical city and the beautiful surrounding countryside.
  • Sights nearby

    • Visit the 13th century Wells Cathedral, this majestic sight is literally across the road.
  • Local markets

    • Scour the bi-weekly farmers market, packed with the cream of the local produce.
  • Great walks

    • The hotel organises walking weekends in conjunction with Wells Walking Tours.
  • Golf

    • Residents are entitled to a 20% discount on green fees at Wells Golf Club.
  • Art Classes

    • Watercolour courses are available with local artist Steve Hall.
  • Views

    • Some rooms have great views of the Cathedral
  • Restaurant

    • 2 AA Rosettes
  • Family Suites

  • Less £

  • Wedding license

  • Conference facilities

  • Outstanding location

  • Sit-out Terrace

  • Full of character

  • Good wine list

  • Traditional

  • Inn

  • Child friendly

  • Business Hotel

  • Chic

  • Disabled access

  • Gym

  • Luxury

  • Four poster beds

  • Romantic

  • Free wifi

  • Self catering to rent

Facilities

  • Rooms

    48 rooms in this hotel
  • Views

    Some rooms have great views of the Cathedral
  • Restaurant

    2 AA Rosettes
  • Parking

    Free parking
  • Meeting Room

  • Family Suites

  • Bar

  • Wedding license

  • Fireplace

  • Walking distance restaurants

  • Outdoor dining

  • Internet

  • Sauna/Steam

  • Cots available

  • No pets

  • Private dining room

  • Garden

  • Sit-out Terrace

  • Good wine list

  • Self catering to rent

  • Concierge

  • Child friendly

  • Room service

  • 24 Hour room service

  • Disabled access

  • Suites

  • Bath robes

  • Satellite / Cable TV

  • Four poster beds

  • Wifi

  • Free wifi

  • Gym

  • Conference facilities

Activities

  • Sights nearby

    • Visit the 13th century Wells Cathedral, this majestic sight is literally across the road.
  • Local markets

    • Scour the bi-weekly farmers market, packed with the cream of the local produce.
  • Great walks

    • The hotel organises walking weekends in conjunction with Wells Walking Tours.
  • Golf

    • Residents are entitled to a 20% discount on green fees at Wells Golf Club.
  • Art Classes

    • Watercolour courses are available with local artist Steve Hall.

Map & Location

Other reviews

The Swan Hotel

"All the new ones are fun but the rooms that are truly vaux le détour are those – just a handful – facing the cathedral."

Originally published by The Telegraph

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