Wedding reception venue · Wells, Somerset
The Bishop’s Palace
A medieval wedding reception venue in the heart of Wells, with a vaulted Undercroft, a moat and 14 acres of gardens.
A Palace in the heart of Wells
The Bishop’s Palace and Gardens is an 800-year-old historic setting in Wells, Somerset. Couples arrive across the drawbridge and through the ancient gatehouse, with the Palace, moat and gardens providing the backdrop to their reception.
Your wedding reception
The medieval Undercroft offers vaulted ceilings and stained-glass windows for a wedding breakfast and evening celebration. The venue currently lists room for up to 144 wedding-breakfast guests or 155 evening guests. Confirm the layout, availability and package details with the wedding team.
Gardens, photographs and seasonal celebrations
The 14 acres of RHS Partner Gardens include lawns, borders and quieter corners for photographs. Outdoor drinks and terrace celebrations are an option in fine weather, while the medieval entrance hall provides a setting for autumn and winter gatherings.
Planning your ceremony
The Bishop’s Palace is not licensed for wedding ceremonies. Its wedding page suggests nearby St Thomas’ Church, St Cuthbert’s Church and Wells Town Hall, with the reception following at the Palace. Ceremony arrangements should be made directly with the chosen venue.
Accommodation and your wider wedding plans
Discuss guest accommodation and transport with the wedding team. If you are considering a Camp Chic bell-tent village, a suitable site and permission would need to be arranged separately; this listing does not indicate that camping or overnight tents are available at the Palace.
At the Big South West Wedding Fair
We came across The Bishop’s Palace at the Big South West Wedding Fair and are pleased to share this distinctive Wells venue with couples planning their celebrations.
A closer look
Plan a visit
Explore weddings at The Bishop’s Palace ↗
weddings@bishopspalace.org.uk
01749 988111
The Bishop’s Palace and Gardens, Wells, Somerset, BA5 2PD.
Details and photographs from the official venue website, checked 18 October 2026. Ask the venue directly about prices, availability and arrangements.