Wells Cathedral, Somerset

Situated in the gentle county of Somerset - with its name originating from the three springs in the grounds of the old Bishops Palace - Wells is one of England's smaller cathedrals. Although the diocese was first created in the early 10th century, during 1088 the see was transferred to Bath and it wasn't until mid 13th century that Wells regained cathedral status.

The site history has been traced back to Roman times, and the first church dates back to early 8th century. However, it wasn't until c1180 that the present Wells Cathedral was started, and continued being built over the next three hundred years. By the middle of the 13th century the imposing west front had been decorated with a vast array of statues. This outstanding collection of Kings, saints, angels and biblical characters is believed to be the largest collection of medieval sculptures in the world.

Looking down the nave, resplendent with the clustered columns of the arcade, the focal point is the 'scissor-arch' construction at the crossing. This ingenious feat of engineering was designed to cope with the extra weight and height of the central tower, after an elaborate stage was added to it in the 14th century. Placed in the south transept is the oldest surviving object from the first cathedral - the stone, Saxon font - still in use today. At one time this was adorned with the sculptures of saints but little trace of the decoration now remains. Set in the blind arcading of the north transept is an interesting 14th century painted clock which shows jousting knights on the quarter hour, as two medieval warriors strike a bell.

Ascending the well-trodden, stone steps beyond the north transept leads to the beautifully vaulted, octagonal Chapter House. Fragments of medieval glass can be seen in the window tracery lights, and a contrasting range of carved corbels between the stalls can provide some amusement. At the east end of Wells Cathedral is a magnificent polygonal Lady Chapel which boasts a spectacularly painted roof vault.

I was first taken to Wells Cathedral as an impressionable child and was quite simply overwhelmed by its sheer beauty and 'magical' atmosphere. Over the years, I have returned several times and taken my own children to visit this glorious, historical treasure chest. The elaborate beauty, the cool serenity, the ancient reminders and the modern comforts, are a constant source of fascination and amazement.