Move over, Oxford and Cambridge. A stunning new ranking has dethroned the UK's usual beauty pageant winners to crown a new, and perhaps surprising, champion: the ancient cathedral city of Wells in Somerset.
This historic gem, often overlooked in favour of its more famous counterparts, has been officially named the most beautiful city in the United Kingdom. The analysis, which pitted urban centres against each other based on their aesthetic appeal, placed Wells at the very top of the list.
What Makes Wells So Special?
The city's crown jewel is, without a doubt, the magnificent Wells Cathedral. A masterclass in early English Gothic architecture, its breathtaking West Front is adorned with nearly 300 medieval statues, creating a stone tapestry that has captivated visitors for centuries.
But the beauty doesn't end there. Just a stone's throw from the cathedral lies Vicars' Close, a picture-perfect cobbled street that claims to be the oldest purely residential street in all of Europe. Its charming, identical houses and serene atmosphere feel like a step directly back into the 14th century.
The heart of the city beats around the iconic Bishop's Palace and its surrounding moat, which is famously home to a family of graceful swans that have learned to ring a bell by the gatehouse when they desire a meal.
Beyond the Beaten Path
While cities like London, Edinburgh, and York often dominate travel itineraries, this ranking highlights the profound beauty found in the UK's quieter, more intimate urban centres. Wells offers a uniquely peaceful and immersive historical experience, free from the overwhelming crowds of a major metropolis.
Its win serves as a powerful reminder to look beyond the guidebook favourites and explore the rich tapestry of history, architecture, and charm that smaller British cities have to offer. For anyone planning a UK staycation or a tour of England's South West, Wells is now an unmissable destination.
