The weather in Somerset did not disappoint…….
it was much drier than ever before when I’ve been there. It was a real treat to be able get our bikes out without getting wet backsides through riding on wet roads. Some sunshine would have been nice but alas, this was not very forthcoming.
We found somewhere to stay between Wells and Glastonbury, so were able to cycle to each quite easily, through lovely quiet country lanes with fantastic views across the countryside. As usual the old goat was way out in front (the black speck on the left)……
Wells is a beautiful cathedral city with a lovely old market square
It was lovely to walk around the city among such historic architecture. Apparently it is England’s smallest city, which I can quite believe, because the old goat and I were able to easily walk round and see everything in a couple of hours. We just managed to squeeze in afternoon tea in some quaint little tea rooms before they closed.
We walked around the grounds of the Bishop’s Palace, where the springs (or wells) rise from underground. This is where the city gets its name from. There is lovely moat around the outside of the Palace, which houses lots of swans and cygnets, including a beautiful sculpture of a swan on a nest.
From there we walked to the cathedral, a Gothic design built of Doulting stone in the 1100,s. The architecture, both inside and out is stunning. Apparently there was an earthquake in the 13th century which damaged the central tower. This was rebuilt and to give it additional strength, scissor arches were added.
Glastonbury, famous for the Glastonbury Music Festival
Is a small country town with quirky little shops and lots of ancient architecture. It was a bit too ‘hippy’ for the old goat but I loved it! It is a world-renowned pilgrimage which has a lovely relaxed atmosphere about it.
You will find the Abbey ruins in the town, the base of which was formed in the 7th century. It is also the legendary burial place of King Arthur.
Close by the Abbey is the Town Hall, built in 1818 with a Georgian frontage which was adorned by pretty flower displays.
In the grounds of the church of St John the Baptist is the Tercentennial Labyrinth, built to celebrate Glastonbury receiving its town charter from Queen Anne in 1705.
We had a very plentiful Sunday roast in the quaint little tea rooms opposite the Abbey ruins. It was a lovely atmosphere and very good value for money. I can certainly recommend it!
Time to go and burn off our lunch so I shall say ‘Cheers’ for now, until the next time……
