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The Ancient Gatehouse Hotel

Wells · United Kingdom

20 Sadler StreetView location

9.0/10Excellent230 Reviews
Cleanliness9.2/109.2
Service9.2/109.2
Comfort8.4/108.4
Condition8.4/108.4
Location9.2/109.2
Neighborhood9.4/109.4
Amenities8.6/108.6
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Room prices, availability, meal plans and cancellation terms are confirmed for your selected dates.

About The Ancient Gatehouse Hotel

Stay connected at The Ancient Gatehouse Hotel in Wells, located adjacent to a shopping center, mere steps from the Wells & Mendip Museum and Wells Cathedral. This guesthouse is 11 miles (17. 6 km) from Cheddar Gorge and 0. 7 miles (1. 1 km) from Wells Bishop's Palace.

Enjoy views from the terrace and garden, and utilize amenities such as complimentary Wi-Fi. The nine guestrooms feature flat-screen televisions, complimentary wired and wireless internet access, and digital programming. Private bathrooms include complimentary toiletries and hair dryers. Safes, desks, and daily housekeeping add to your convenience.

Savor lunch or dinner at Rugantino, the on-site Italian restaurant, or enjoy room service during limited hours. Unwind with a drink at the bar/lounge. The hotel also offers dry cleaning/laundry services, multilingual staff, and luggage storage.

Read more about this hotelShow less

A stay at The Ancient Gatehouse Hotel places you in the heart of Wells, steps from The Market Place and Wells & Mendip Museum. This guesthouse is 11 mi (17.7 km) from Cheddar Gorge and 0.7 mi (1.1 km) from Wells Bishop's Palace.

Stay in one of 9 guestrooms featuring flat-screen televisions. Complimentary wireless internet access keeps you connected, and digital programming is available for your entertainment. Bathrooms have complimentary toiletries and hair dryers. Conveniences include phones, as well as desks and electric kettles.

Featured amenities include express check-out, multilingual staff, and a safe deposit box at the front desk.

Popular amenities

Free WiFi
Parking available
Dining services
Concierge
Entertainment
Non-smoking
Accessible facilities

Check-in and check-out

Check-in from 2:00 PM
Check-in until 10:00 PM
Check-out until 11:00 AM
Minimum check-in age 18

Hotel policies

No rollaway/extra beds available No cribs (infant beds) available No elevators Guests will receive an email with special check-in instructions Guest will receive an email before arrival 48 hours Professional property host/manager Pets not allowed Service animals are allowed Service animals are exempt from fees/restrictions

Cleaning and safety

Sanitization
Contactless check-in is available Contactless check-out is available Cashless transactions are available
Essential Travel
Essential workers only - NO

Important information

  • You need to know
    • This property's policy is to refuse certain bookings for the purpose of group events or parties, including pre-wedding stag/bachelor and hen/bachelorette parties.
    • Children stay free when occupying the parent or guardian's room, using existing bedding.
    • Cashless payment methods are available for all transactions.
    • Contactless check-in and contactless check-out are available.
  • Special Instructions
    The front desk is open during the following times:
    • Thursday - Monday: 8:00 AM - 10:00 PM
    To make arrangements for check-in please contact the property at least 24 hours before arrival using the information on the booking confirmation. If you are planning to arrive after 7:00 PM please contact the property in advance using the information on the booking confirmation. Guests planning to arrive outside of normal check-in hours will receive an email with check-in instructions and lockbox information. Front desk staff will greet guests on arrival at the property. For any questions, please contact the property using the information on the booking confirmation. Information provided by the property may be translated using automated translation tools. Guests planning to arrive outside of normal check-in hours must contact this property in advance to arrange check-in.
  • Instructions
    • Extra-person charges may apply and vary depending on property policy
    • Government-issued photo identification and a credit card, debit card, or cash deposit may be required at check-in for incidental charges
    • Special requests are subject to availability upon check-in and may incur additional charges; special requests cannot be guaranteed
    • This property accepts credit cards; cash is not accepted
    • Cashless transactions are available
    • Safety features at this property include a fire extinguisher
    • Please note that cultural norms and guest policies may differ by country and by property; the policies listed are provided by the property
  • Minimal age
    18
  • Optional fees
    • Fee for cooked-to-order breakfast: approximately GBP 20.00 for adults and GBP 20.00 for children
    • Late check-out fee: GBP 24 (subject to availability)

    The above list may not be comprehensive. Fees and deposits may not include tax and are subject to change.

  • Spoken Language

    English

    Italian

    Spanish

Nearby attractions

The Market Place 0.1 km / 0.1 mi
Wells & Mendip Museum 0.1 km / 0.1 mi
Wells Cathedral 0.2 km / 0.1 mi
Vicar's Close 0.3 km / 0.2 mi
Ebbor Gorge 0.4 km / 0.2 mi
Wells Bishop's Palace 0.4 km / 0.3 mi
Mendip Hills 0.7 km / 0.4 mi
Wells Leisure Centre 1.8 km / 1.1 mi
Wookey Hole Caves 3.4 km / 2.1 mi
Lake Village Museum 9.3 km / 5.8 mi
Church of St Mary 9.5 km / 5.9 mi
Chalice Well 9.6 km / 5.9 mi
Glastonbury Festival Site 9.6 km / 5.9 mi
White Spring 9.6 km / 6 mi
St. Margaret's Chapel & Magdalene Almshouses 9.6 km / 6 mi

Hotel facilities & services

Services and fees can vary. Check the selected room details and hotel policies before booking.

  • Total number of rooms: 9
  • guest house
  • Wheelchair-accessible
  • Check-in hour
  • Check-out hour
  • Laundry service
  • Multilingual staff
  • Hotel safe
  • Garden
  • Terrace
  • Newspapers
  • Luggage room
Show 5 more facilities & services
  • Clothes dryer
  • Bar
  • Restaurant
  • Non-smoking establishment
  • Minimum check-in age: 18
Meal plans

Meal plan types

Meal options depend on the room and rate you choose. Search your dates to see which meal plans are included.

GB

English Breakfast

This meal plan may be available depending on the selected room/rate.

RO

Room Only

Accommodation only. Meals are usually not included.

Upon availability

Room types

These are the hotel's room types, rather than live offers. Choose your travel dates to see available rooms, prices and booking conditions. Check availability

  • DOUBLE SUPERIOR WITH VIEWSDOUBLE • SUPERIOR WITH VIEWSDBL.SU-WV

    Photos are not available for this room type.

    The Ancient Gatehouse Hotel

    DOUBLE SUPERIOR WITH VIEWS

    Room photos

    Photos are not available for this room type.

    Room overview

    Occupancy
    Guests: 1–4 • Adults: max. 4 • Children: max. 3
    Room type
    DOUBLE
    View / characteristic
    SUPERIOR WITH VIEWS

    Adult and child limits apply within the room's total guest limit.

    Room code: DBL.SU-WV

    Limited room details from hotel

    Available rooms, prices and included facilities are confirmed after you choose your dates and rate.

  • DOUBLE WITH VIEWSDOUBLE • WITH VIEWSDBL.WV

    Photos are not available for this room type.

    The Ancient Gatehouse Hotel

    DOUBLE WITH VIEWS

    Room photos

    Photos are not available for this room type.

    Room overview

    Occupancy
    Guests: 1–4 • Adults: max. 4 • Children: max. 3
    Room type
    DOUBLE
    View / characteristic
    WITH VIEWS

    Adult and child limits apply within the room's total guest limit.

    Room code: DBL.WV

    Limited room details from hotel

    Available rooms, prices and included facilities are confirmed after you choose your dates and rate.

  • SINGLE CLASSIC WITH VIEWSSINGLE • CLASSIC WITH VIEWSSGL.AS-WV

    Photos are not available for this room type.

    The Ancient Gatehouse Hotel

    SINGLE CLASSIC WITH VIEWS

    Room photos

    Photos are not available for this room type.

    Room overview

    Occupancy
    Guests: 1–1 • Adults: max. 1 • Children: max. 0
    Room type
    SINGLE
    View / characteristic
    CLASSIC WITH VIEWS

    Adult and child limits apply within the room's total guest limit.

    Room code: SGL.AS-WV

    Limited room details from hotel

    Available rooms, prices and included facilities are confirmed after you choose your dates and rate.

  • Double or Twin TWO BEDSDouble or Twin • TWO BEDSDBT.2B

    Photos are not available for this room type.

    The Ancient Gatehouse Hotel

    Double or Twin TWO BEDS

    Room photos

    Photos are not available for this room type.

    Room overview

    Occupancy
    Guests: 1–6 • Adults: max. 6 • Children: max. 3
    Room type
    Double or Twin
    View / characteristic
    TWO BEDS

    Adult and child limits apply within the room's total guest limit.

    Room code: DBT.2B

    Limited room details from hotel

    Available rooms, prices and included facilities are confirmed after you choose your dates and rate.

  • SINGLE STANDARDSINGLE • STANDARDSGL.ST-2

    Photos are not available for this room type.

    The Ancient Gatehouse Hotel

    SINGLE STANDARD

    Room photos

    Photos are not available for this room type.

    Room overview

    Occupancy
    Guests: 1–1 • Adults: max. 1 • Children: max. 0
    Room type
    SINGLE
    View / characteristic
    STANDARD

    Adult and child limits apply within the room's total guest limit.

    Room code: SGL.ST-2

    Limited room details from hotel

    Available rooms, prices and included facilities are confirmed after you choose your dates and rate.

  • DOUBLE DELUXE WITH VIEWSDOUBLE • DELUXE WITH VIEWSDBL.DX-WV

    Photos are not available for this room type.

    The Ancient Gatehouse Hotel

    DOUBLE DELUXE WITH VIEWS

    Room photos

    Photos are not available for this room type.

    Room overview

    Occupancy
    Guests: 1–4 • Adults: max. 4 • Children: max. 3
    Room type
    DOUBLE
    View / characteristic
    DELUXE WITH VIEWS

    Adult and child limits apply within the room's total guest limit.

    Room code: DBL.DX-WV

    Limited room details from hotel

    Available rooms, prices and included facilities are confirmed after you choose your dates and rate.

  • DOUBLE STANDARDDOUBLE • STANDARDDBL.ST-1

    Photos are not available for this room type.

    The Ancient Gatehouse Hotel

    DOUBLE STANDARD

    Room photos

    Photos are not available for this room type.

    Room overview

    Non-smoking room
    Occupancy
    Guests: 1–2 • Adults: max. 2 • Children: max. 1
    Bed setup
    Double bed 131-150 width
    Room type
    DOUBLE
    View / characteristic
    STANDARD

    Adult and child limits apply within the room's total guest limit.

    Room code: DBL.ST-1

    Room amenities

    • Desk
    • Toiletries
    • Wi-fi
    • Safe
    • Ironing set
    • Tea and coffee making facilities
    • TV
    • Electric Kettle
    • Housekeeping
    • Fan
    • Shower
    • Hairdryer
    • Direct dial telephone
    • Internet access

    Available rooms, prices and included facilities are confirmed after you choose your dates and rate.

  • DOUBLE DELUXEDOUBLE • DELUXEDBL.DX

    Photos are not available for this room type.

    The Ancient Gatehouse Hotel

    DOUBLE DELUXE

    Room photos

    Photos are not available for this room type.

    Room overview

    Occupancy
    Guests: 1–4 • Adults: max. 4 • Children: max. 3
    Room type
    DOUBLE
    View / characteristic
    DELUXE

    Adult and child limits apply within the room's total guest limit.

    Room code: DBL.DX

    Limited room details from hotel

    Available rooms, prices and included facilities are confirmed after you choose your dates and rate.

  • Double or Twin CLASSICDouble or Twin • CLASSICDBT.AS

    Photos are not available for this room type.

    The Ancient Gatehouse Hotel

    Double or Twin CLASSIC

    Room photos

    Photos are not available for this room type.

    Room overview

    Occupancy
    Guests: 1–6 • Adults: max. 6 • Children: max. 3
    Room type
    Double or Twin
    View / characteristic
    CLASSIC

    Adult and child limits apply within the room's total guest limit.

    Room code: DBT.AS

    Limited room details from hotel

    Available rooms, prices and included facilities are confirmed after you choose your dates and rate.

  • Double or Twin DELUXEDouble or Twin • DELUXEDBT.DX

    Photos are not available for this room type.

    The Ancient Gatehouse Hotel

    Double or Twin DELUXE

    Room photos

    Photos are not available for this room type.

    Room overview

    Occupancy
    Guests: 1–6 • Adults: max. 6 • Children: max. 3
    Room type
    Double or Twin
    View / characteristic
    DELUXE

    Adult and child limits apply within the room's total guest limit.

    Room code: DBT.DX

    Limited room details from hotel

    Available rooms, prices and included facilities are confirmed after you choose your dates and rate.

  • DOUBLE STANDARDDOUBLE • STANDARDDBL.ST-2

    Photos are not available for this room type.

    The Ancient Gatehouse Hotel

    DOUBLE STANDARD

    Room photos

    Photos are not available for this room type.

    Room overview

    Occupancy
    Guests: 1–4 • Adults: max. 4 • Children: max. 3
    Room type
    DOUBLE
    View / characteristic
    STANDARD

    Adult and child limits apply within the room's total guest limit.

    Room code: DBL.ST-2

    Limited room details from hotel

    Available rooms, prices and included facilities are confirmed after you choose your dates and rate.

  • DOUBLE SUPERIOR WITH DOUBLE BEDDOUBLE • SUPERIOR WITH DOUBLE BEDDBL.DB-SU

    Photos are not available for this room type.

    The Ancient Gatehouse Hotel

    DOUBLE SUPERIOR WITH DOUBLE BED

    Room photos

    Photos are not available for this room type.

    Room overview

    Occupancy
    Guests: 1–4 • Adults: max. 4 • Children: max. 3
    Room type
    DOUBLE
    View / characteristic
    SUPERIOR WITH DOUBLE BED

    Adult and child limits apply within the room's total guest limit.

    Room code: DBL.DB-SU

    Limited room details from hotel

    Available rooms, prices and included facilities are confirmed after you choose your dates and rate.

  • DOUBLE QUEEN SIZE BEDDOUBLE • QUEEN SIZE BEDDBL.QN

    Photos are not available for this room type.

    The Ancient Gatehouse Hotel

    DOUBLE QUEEN SIZE BED

    Room photos

    Photos are not available for this room type.

    Room overview

    Smoking room
    Occupancy
    Guests: 1–2 • Adults: max. 2 • Children: max. 1
    Bed setup
    Queen-size bed 150-154 width
    Room type
    DOUBLE
    View / characteristic
    QUEEN SIZE BED

    Adult and child limits apply within the room's total guest limit.

    Room code: DBL.QN

    Room amenities

    • Tea and coffee making facilities
    • Hairdryer
    • TV
    • Internet access
    • Ironing set
    • Safe
    • Toiletries
    • Desk
    • Fan
    • Housekeeping

    Facilities with extra charge

    • Wi-fi

    Available rooms, prices and included facilities are confirmed after you choose your dates and rate.

Guest reviews

What other guests saying about The Ancient Gatehouse Hotel

9.0
Excellent
230 Reviews
Cleanliness
9.2 /10
Service
9.2 /10
Comfort
8.4 /10
Condition
8.4 /10
Location
9.2 /10
Neighborhood
9.4 /10
Amenities
8.6 /10
100 reviews shown
10/10
Exceptional
20 Jul 2026
Bridget
Absolutely a gem of a find. Beautiful view of the cathedral from my room. Breakfast was delicious and the staff were very friendly and helpful.

Definitely stay again!
Thank you
Self
8/10
Excellent
19 Jul 2026
Malcolm
Full of character and just the place to stay for an overnight visit to Wells.
Nice four poster room but at the front and the street was a little noisy. We just had to put up with the heat and close the window...
Partner
8/10
Excellent
14 Jul 2026
Nobuko
It was only for one night, but we enjoyed the stay very much. First time we slept in a beautifully decorated four-poster bed!
Friends_and_family Family
10/10
Exceptional
13 Jun 2026
Jennifer
Loved our stay, beautiful and quaint!
Partner
6/10
Pleasant
12 Jun 2026
Julia
The room was far too hot. There was a thick winter 13 tog duvet on our bed ( and it was June weather) my husband asked for a blanket and sheet so the cleaner took away duvet but only left a sheet no blanket, so we were then cold on our second night and had to put our light raincoats on ourselves to keep warm:( The bed was far too small with it being a small double. Suggest you get smaller bedsize cabinets thsn the chunky ones and invest in a wider king-size bed for comfort for guests!
Partner
10/10
Exceptional
06 Jun 2026
Julie
The hotel was very clean, warm and comfortable. I spoke to many staff members during the stay and everyone was completely helpful, friendly and had time for a conversation. I was fortunate to get a room with an amazing view of Wells Cathedral. It was an ideal location. The hotel description on the booking site was accurate and the hotel sent additional reminder emails regarding parking and the hotel’s unique stairs. So there were no surprises. I felt fortunate to have stayed in such an historic hotel with all its quirks. I hope to stay again in the future.
Self
10/10
Exceptional
04 Jun 2026
Kevin
Fabulous hotel we had fantastic views of the Cathedral room 3
And the hotels Italian restaurant was also excellent will be back for sure
Partner
6/10
Pleasant
15 May 2026
MICHAEL
Very disappointing- the restaurant was closed on Wednesday when we arrived and the reception shut early. There were no facilities other than in the bedroom. The bed was impressive but very small for two.
Partner
8/10
Excellent
12 May 2026
Karon
Friendly staff ,very welcoming. Ideal location,food in the restaurant excellent.
Partner
10/10
Exceptional
22 Apr 2026
Kim
My daughter and I had a wonderful stay - the room was beautiful with a charming feeling. We had a view of the cathedral which was stunning and changed with the change in light.

Great location and the staff were so friendly - I'd fully recommend for a short stay.
Friends_and_family Family
10/10
Exceptional
21 Apr 2026
Gaynor
Lovely breakfast cooked fresh to order. Wonderful location opposite the cathedral.
10/10
Exceptional
19 Apr 2026
Bob
After receiving my key and directions to my room, I was amazed at the steepness of the stairs. In the States we would call that a ladder. But the room was clean and comfortable and the attached restaurant was brilliant. The cathedral and the green were visible from my suite. It was the perfect place to stay.
Self
10/10
Exceptional
18 Apr 2026
hilary
lovely room with a wonderful cathedral view. dinner and breakfast excellent with really nice staff!
Partner
6/10
Pleasant
17 Apr 2026
GILL
Dark decor extends up the windy staircase to rooms, might be improved by a lighter colour.
Fine blind in bathroom would be good for privacy!
Breakfast only available on prebooking.
Tasty and freshly cooked but expensive.
Good location in centre of Wells.
Comfortable bed.
Partner
8/10
Excellent
08 Apr 2026
Fiona
You step back in history when you stay at the Gatehouse. Amazing in-house Italian restaurant. Breakfast was delicious and generous. All the staff were friendly and efficient.
8/10
Excellent
03 Apr 2026
David
Very welcoming staff at check in.The room was nice, the stairs could be a problem for some people.
Breakfast was excellent with lovely produce, our table overlooked the cathedral so we could enjoy the views.The lady who served us was so friendly.
All shops, restaurants,pubs and the cathedral were within a few minutes walk.Our only problem was finding an overnight car park close by.
Partner
10/10
Exceptional
08 Mar 2026
Helen
Beautiful. Perfectly placed in the centre of wells. Staff are helpful and friendly. Our room (no 2) had a beautiful four poster, a lovely shower (but not really suitable for a larger person) as the door only opened a very small way. The pin opposite did play loud music on the Fri and sat night until gone midnight but it didn’t bother us too much
Partner
10/10
Exceptional
15 Feb 2026
Alison
The staff were great and were extremely helpful.
Great location
Friends_and_family Friends
10/10
Exceptional
11 Feb 2026
judith
The room was fantastic - it had literally just been refurbished (had an amazing four poster bed that was very comfortable).
The food in the restaurant was delicious and all of the staff were so kind and helpful, special shout out to the lovely lady that prepared our breakfast - she was excellent!
Partner
10/10
Exceptional
08 Feb 2026
Charlotte
The staff were helpful, friendly and welcoming.
Leisure
10/10
Exceptional
08 Feb 2026
Rachel
Easy check in, friendly and attentive staff and rooms that are spotlessly clean, oh, and a great breakfast! What more could you want 🙂
Partner
10/10
Exceptional
24 Jan 2026
Gary Work
it was spotless, had everything we needed and the staff were super friendly. have already recommended to friends
Partner
8/10
Excellent
12 Jan 2026
Carey Peter
Nice staff good location the room was comfortable
10/10
Exceptional
03 Jan 2026
Joely
This hotel was an excellent place to stay in Wells - super convenient location in town with great cathedral view. Room was comfortable with nice touches. Staff was very kind. The breakfast was also a highlight that I would recommend, the breakfast chef does an excellent job and it is a great spread!
Leisure Family
8/10
Excellent
26 Dec 2025
Thomas
Historically layered building attached to Brown's Gatehouse (I'm not sure if one of the rooms is literally IN the gatehouse?) and overlooking the cathedral. Rooms located above an Italian restaurant, they're pleasant but very much Inn or B&B type, so you hear every creaky footstep, especially if on the first floor. Ear plugs recommended. Sometimes when you stay at a hotel with a restaurant you might be offered a free drink or discount — given in this case you can hear the restaurant until around 11pm, and you're dodging waiters as you go in and out the building, it might be a nice touch to offer something extra to paying guests? (along with those ear plugs…)
Leisure Partner
10/10
Exceptional
22 Dec 2025
Tony
What stood out??? Well, for one, it was the staff. They welcomed me and gave me a lovely room. I had a table booked for 10 of my family, and the food was excellent. The wine was superb too, and I asked for a favour, which they delivered. This is one of my favourite hotels in the UK and will be my go-to whenever I go to Somerset to see my family. The only downside is the parking, but that is minuscule compared to the service I received from The Ancient Gatehouse. Well done all.
Self
10/10
Exceptional
14 Dec 2025
Chris
Fantastic friendly helpful staff...real Italians! Oh, and great breakfast lady from Ulster. The room was very clean with nice touches such as still & sparkling water. The view over the cathedral was stunning when enjoying coffee & a hot cooked breakfast. Just great to stay in a real family run establishment.
Friends_and_family Friends
10/10
Exceptional
13 Dec 2025
Una
View from bedroom over Wells Cathedral. Greatvlocation
Partner
10/10
Exceptional
18 Nov 2025
Marc t D
Lovely old building. Great old style bed
10/10
Exceptional
18 Nov 2025
roger
Great location, some really friendly staff.
Leisure Partner
10/10
Exceptional
17 Nov 2025
Karen
I had a lovely stay here and the breakfast was delicious. Thank you
Partner
10/10
Exceptional
12 Nov 2025
Alison
Yes , it was very clean.
The staff were very helpful and attentive and managed to get us a dinner table at short notice.
Partner
10/10
Exceptional
09 Nov 2025
Sonja
fantastic hotel beautifully decorated room. Wells is an amazing city to visit.
Leisure Partner
8/10
Excellent
30 Oct 2025
Christopher
The room was very clean and the staff helpful.
Leisure Family
10/10
Exceptional
10 Oct 2025
Diane
Very central, parking easy on road cross to cathedral. Fab view of cathedral from breakfast, ate dinner in the Italian in the ground floor - very nice.
Partner
10/10
Exceptional
30 Sep 2025
David

Nice, plus the Italian restaurant

Parking was as advised, it is Salisbury you have to contend with that. Thank you.
Partner
10/10
Exceptional
25 Sep 2025
Abdul
Great location. Everywhere is very walkable. Wide range of shops and restaurants. The Gatehouse is unique and charming. The hotel staff are very nice and accommodating. Great value for money.

Beds comfortable. Room very clean. Overall a great experience and the city of Wells is a must-see
Leisure Friends
8/10
Excellent
16 Sep 2025
Megan

Great service, good overall

A charming hotel in a lovely area. Staff were attentive and friendly. Restaurant had incredible food and ambience.

I booked a single room which was fine. It was quite dusty in the room, notably on the top of the wide picture rail going around the bed. I only noticed when settling down to bed, I’m sure staff would have cleaned otherwise. The corner the bed was in was also a little dark and dingy and pillows were naff. Can hear other guests quite clearly particularly when they are coming up the stairs. Steep stairs up to the rooms. Beautiful view out the room window and good shower and bathroom. Would stay again but in a different room.

Worth noting as well that hotel is unmanned overnight. Staff leave the restaurant in the late evening and there is no staff in until 8am ish. There are emergency numbers but worth knowing for safety and security.
Self
10/10
Exceptional
10 Sep 2025
Dawn

Brilliant overnight stay

Stayed here for one night, staff were all very friendly and helpful, nothing was too much trouble. We stayed in room 2 which was at the front. Lovely big room with 4 poster bed. Very comfortable and clean. There are lots of hotels in Wells but I’m glad we chose this one.
Partner
8/10
Excellent
01 Sep 2025
Edward
NO PARKIING
Despite not being able to reach the hotel because of a road block, not being able to speak to anyone when we phoned (and we tried several times), being offered parking options that were not available or impractical as a stop from our check-in to check-out, meaning we had to carry our luggage through town from Waitrose long-stay car park, no reception staff for most of our stay and not being able to get breakfast in the hotel, we actually liked the place.

The location is ideal for visiting the cathedral and also for excellent restaurants and coffee shops. The passage to our room felt a little like a worm hole; it goes in all directions at rather curious angles.

The room offered a view across the green to the cathedral. The clock chimes every quarter; you’ll hear it if you’re awake but it didn’t keep us awake.

WiFi in our room was only 6mbps down at best – but even if there a WAP on our floor, the thickness of the walls meant it would have struggled.

The bathroom has a bath and a hose with a shower head but no shower. Hot water supply is good. The room had a nice feel about it.

The building is definitely old and the hotel has an eccentric charm. We’d stay there again, if we were not driving.
Leisure Partner
6/10
Pleasant
27 Aug 2025
Tony
Hotel facilities only open Monday left to our own devices Tuesday and Wednesday. No breakfast available.
Partner
10/10
Exceptional
22 Aug 2025
Peter

Lovely old hotel in magical location

Excellent small historic hotel facing Weeks Cathedral. The view of the Cathedral from my bedroom was magical. Nice breakfast and very friendly staff
Self
10/10
Exceptional
16 Jul 2025
Elsa
Very characterful, great restaurant, really good food. Doggy friendly.
Leisure Partner
10/10
Exceptional
14 Jul 2025
Catherine

Charming visit!

We loved our stay at the Ancient Gatehouse. It is just that, ancient and charming. The room was lovely and had a nice clean bathroom. We were fortunate to have a room that looked out over the green and had a view of the cathedral. There is no air conditioning. Very few places in the UK or Europe have AC, these are old buildings. There was a fan and large windows which suited us perfectly. The hotel has an excellent Italian restaurant where we ate dinner. We stayed only one night, but we will definitely return in the future.
Partner
10/10
Exceptional
23 Jun 2025
Gill

Wonderful location

Lovely room in an interesting building in the heart of Wells. Friendly staff.
Partner
10/10
Exceptional
19 Jun 2025
Patrick
Friendly and welcoming - we enjoyed our visit to Wells itself very much indeed. It was our second visit to this hotel and we would certainly choose it again!
Partner
10/10
Exceptional
18 Jun 2025
John
Excellent location in a charming city
Leisure Partner
10/10
Exceptional
10 Jun 2025
Scott
An old character building which has a very modern feel to it. Excellent
Leisure Partner
8/10
Excellent
12 May 2025
michael
Cleanliness and laid back feel about the place.Very good value for money
Leisure Partner
10/10
Exceptional
12 May 2025
Mark

Ancient building, lovely hosts, great restaurant

Ancient building, lovely hosts, excellent Italian restaurant. Room was clean and tidy in this 400 year old building. Breakfast room looks onto Cathedral green.
Partner
10/10
Exceptional
07 May 2025
Jerry
All went fine
8/10
Excellent
14 Apr 2025
Sarah
Lovely stay with an excellent welcome from very attentive hotel and restaurant staff. Room and bathroom was a bit smaller than I expected, and could do with a bit more modernising, TV was very small and floors quite uneven and creaky. But that kind of added to the atmosphere of an ancient gatehouse. Next time I would request a room with a view of the cathedral as I think these must be more spacious.
Leisure Partner
6/10
Pleasant
13 Apr 2025
Amanda
Room was in need of updating, carpet was dirty. Staff were pleasant, but failed to tell us that they were not open on the day we left so no breakfast would be served. We just left our key at the closed desk. The restaurant looked very nice, but didn’t get a chance to try it.
Leisure
10/10
Exceptional
07 Apr 2025
Fran
All the staff at the hotel were so friendly and helpful. The room was beautiful, clean, comfortable, excellent facilities.
6/10
Pleasant
03 Apr 2025
William

Beautiful Hotel, Amazing Breakfast, Awful Bed

The outside of this hotel is absolutely beautiful, with the historic Gatehouse plus connecting building and the location is complete perfection. I can’t imagine there is a better placed hotel in the whole of Wells.

The staff were extremely welcoming and could not do enough for us. The breakfast is one of the best breakfast’s I have ever had in a hotel - no exaggeration! All made to order, with plenty of Hot Drinks and juices.


Pretty much the only thing that let down our stay was the bed. The bed was so uncomfortable that at around 2am of not being able to sleep I actually decided to sleep on the floor! I did over head the staff talking about how the rooms and furniture were getting a refurb soon - which is promising. So although 3 stars feels harsh… I think it is fair as the bed was so bad that we could not properly sleep here.
Partner
10/10
Exceptional
27 Mar 2025
Ian
Fantastic location directly opposite the cathedral. As it's the old gatehouse, the stairs to the rooms take a bit of effort as there is no lift but you do get a real feeling of originality.

We ate in the hotel and the food was excellent, as was the breakfast. The staff were all very friendly and helpful.
Leisure Pet
10/10
Exceptional
23 Mar 2025
Tracey
Possibly the most beautiful hotel I’ve ever stayed in and the most friendly staff possible!
Business Self
10/10
Exceptional
21 Mar 2025
Dominic
Loved everything about it, the staff were amazing and can’t praise the Chef enough… the restaurant is top notch.
10/10
Exceptional
18 Mar 2025
Janet
Just as it is described on the Expedia website. We loved it. Sadly only a one night stopover but we will definitely return. It was a stunning view (Wells Cathedral) in such a comfortable room. Wonderful!
Leisure Partner
8/10
Excellent
11 Mar 2025
Richard

Cathedral visit.

We had never visited Wells and was interested in going to the Cathedral and Bishops Palace. Hotel looked well placed for this. Overall a good hotel with a good restaurant. Room a bit snug and absence of shower not great for visitors of a certain age. Bath looked like too much of a slip hazard.
Friends_and_family Family
10/10
Exceptional
28 Feb 2025
Dayna
Views of the Cathedral. Excellent location. Delicious Italian restaurant on-site with many options all around. Andy (manager) and the entire staff so friendly and helpful. Highly recommended for the price - 2 star at 4 star service.

Parking not that convenient, but that is expected.
Leisure Partner
8/10
Excellent
04 Feb 2025
Philip

Nice place, great staff

Can't fault the service, the breakfast was great, the staff friendly and they even did us pizza as we was running very late and missed dinner. The room was okay, only negative was the bed was small and you couldn't stand to shower, had to sit in the bath and hold the shower head, but it was fine.
Partner
10/10
Exceptional
19 Jan 2025
Neil Porter

Room3

Room a bit tired in places but clean and comfortable bed with top view.
10/10
Exceptional
17 Nov 2024
Miranda
Great location
Leisure Partner
10/10
Exceptional
17 Oct 2024
Jacqui

Great nights stay

We had a wonderful nights stay. The location is perfect for visiting Wells and backs onto the Cathedral green. The bed was very comfortable, a bit high maybe but such a good nights sleep. Can’t comment on the food as the restaurant was not open the night of our visit.
Partner
10/10
Exceptional
08 Oct 2024
georgiana
The staff was very very helpful and friendly. My traveling companion developed a medical emergency and they facilitated everything. My complaint is with Expedia it is very unusable in the UK I had to call home to get family to cancel reservations etc. etc. I would highly suggest you make The ability to contact you more more easily
10/10
Exceptional
04 Oct 2024
Tiffany M
The property is beautiful, the staff great and the restaurant amazing. Can’t wait to come back!
Leisure Family
10/10
Exceptional
25 Sep 2024
Bethany
Great stay! The restaurant was great and such an interesting building.
Leisure Partner
6/10
Pleasant
24 Sep 2024
Sharon
The rooms were tired looking but bathrooms renovated and nice. Afternoon and evening staff were great but morning staff rude. restaurant on site fabulous No parking and off site parking very hard to find and long walk with cases. I would not recommend staying there
Leisure Partner
10/10
Exceptional
23 Sep 2024
Sarah
Wonderfully located in this historic city
Leisure Partner
10/10
Exceptional
22 Sep 2024
Nicky
A little gem of a hotel. Narrow and steep staircases so probably not ideal for people with mobility issues but it really is beautiful. I stayed in room 4, small and pretty with the most amazing view of the cathedral. Central location, comfortable and clean and excellent value for money.
Leisure Self
10/10
Exceptional
23 Aug 2024
Janet

I heart Italy

Pretty pink room; stunning four poster; fab bedding; comfy bed; decent bathroom; super central location; quiet enough at night; cool decor. Only suggestions: glad for extra throw but it showed use by a dog and edges of room and around furniture bottoms needs cleaning. Otherwise very clean. FAB FOOD/RESTAURANT!!
Partner
8/10
Excellent
18 Aug 2024
John

Centrally located Hotel

Small but very smart and well furnished ensuit single room with excellent views across the Green to the Cathedral.
Very centrally situated.
Self
10/10
Exceptional
05 Jul 2024
George
Wonderfully friendly staff. Great location just steps away from the cathedral.
Self
10/10
Exceptional
02 Jul 2024
adam
Opted for a double room and shower but decided to go for a bath and was shown a beautiful room in the tower and took it ! Staff were very helpful and the food was delicious and beautifully presented
Partner
8/10
Excellent
26 Jun 2024
C

Ancient Gatehouse Hotel

We stayed in Wells to visit friends, the room was comfortable but small due to the age of the property that is understandable. The view from the room was superb
Partner
10/10
Exceptional
12 Jun 2024
Valerie

Character property

Character property, loved the antique 4 poster bed. So comfy. En-suite very clean with good products. We dined in the restaurant in the evening and meal was excellent and so was breakfast. Staff really friendly and helpful.
Partner
10/10
Exceptional
29 May 2024
Sarah
What an absolute stunning property, Unique and Ancient, Clean and quiet great position for all Wells has to offer
Leisure Partner
8/10
Excellent
20 May 2024
Robert

Room with a View

Fantastic location with our room having a clear view of the wonderful Wells cathedral.
Partner
10/10
Exceptional
18 Apr 2024
Graeme
When I went to check in the person behind the counter told me I did not have a reservation. This then began a series of events that caused significant stress. My phone was out of power as was my lap top. I took my lap top to a neighboring hotel where I was able to see I DID have a reservation. That person was not there when I returned but check in was fine. When I eventually saw the person in question he said I must have made the reservation that day with no apology
Leisure Self
10/10
Exceptional
18 Mar 2024
Verified traveler
Lovely old building with a fantastic view of the cathedral. Handy over night parking by the green. Staff were very friendly.
Self
8/10
Excellent
15 Mar 2024
Julian
Very nice one night stay in the beautiful little city of Wells. The Ancient Gatehouse is lovely and quirky as it's such an old building. Amazing views across the green to the Cathedral. Staff very helpful and welcoming. There's an Italian restaurant on the ground floor, but there was no noise drifting up to our room.
Leisure Partner
10/10
Exceptional
24 Feb 2024
Frances

A lovely stay...too brief

Beautiful, characterful hotel: Tastefully decorated; comfortable; amazing view of the cathedral, ( was there for memorial to a dear friend); fantastic, thoughtful, helpful service, especially from Nicky in reception! wish I could have stayed , much longer...
Self
10/10
Exceptional
05 Jan 2024
robin

Perfect small central place to stay

I rarely do reviews but what a gem of a place.
Self
10/10
Exceptional
11 Dec 2023
Kristian
Great staff, great breakfast! The only comment I would make is to recommend where to park in Wells on the website, as I couldn't see a recommendation for this. We will be staying again!
Leisure Family
10/10
Exceptional
21 Oct 2023
Trevor
This is a wonderful spot to enjoy Wells. The cathedral is across the green space in front of the hotel. The food in the restaurant excellent. The stairs to the room may be steep but worth it.
10/10
Exceptional
25 Sep 2023
Jessica
Great location overlooking the Cathedral. Very friendly and helpful staff. Our large room had an antique 4 post bed with beautiful wood carvings. We chose to dine at the hotel’s restaurant and we’re not disappointed. Great Italian food and great service, again overlooking the cathedral.
Leisure Partner
10/10
Exceptional
14 Sep 2023
carol
Absolutely stunning views of the cathedral. Food and service was incredible
Leisure Family
8/10
Excellent
16 Aug 2023
Patrick

Quaint hotel in town!

Great location - right in the center of town! Also has a restaurant, but it was full and I could not have dinner there - must be good! Had view of the cathedral from my room, which was a 3min walk - glorious! Very quiet as facing the back. Room was single, not big but plenty for one; bathroom was large. Access to the room was up 2 flights of stairs, first one OK, second one \"treacherously steep and narrow!\" - good if you are in good shape! Breakfast was very good.
Self
8/10
Excellent
02 Aug 2023
Sue
Clean room, with en-suite. Our room was Located at front of hotel above noisy street - not ideal, woken up very early by the traffic. Photos of hotel show only rooms with views over Cathedral so assumed we would be located in one of these rather than at the front of the hotel so we were disappointed.
Partner
6/10
Pleasant
31 Jul 2023
Christine
Perfect location to explore Wells. The building is historical, therefore full of character with an amazing view of the cathedral. A better mattress on the ancient bed would improve sleep. Breakfast was lovely in spite of a communication lapse between the afternoon desk staff and the lovely lady multi tasking everything single handedly the following morning.
Leisure Partner
10/10
Exceptional
28 Jul 2023
wendy
Such a great place to stay …..love how old the building is and the quirkiness of it. Also the Beautiful view of the Cathedral from our room !
Leisure Partner
10/10
Exceptional
08 Jun 2023
Michael
The staff were so friendly and accommodating. Very popular dining spot located in the heart of Wells. Food delicious and made to order breakfast was AMAZING! The room was comfortable and well stocked, although the shower was a bit claustrophobic. Overall, I expect that I’ll be staying at the Ancient Gatehouse on my next visit to Wells.
Leisure Partner
6/10
Pleasant
30 May 2023
Gavin
Room was very shabby and tired with poor quality fittings, worst shower ever had. Staff were very friendly and food was wonderful.
Partner
6/10
Pleasant
25 Mar 2023
Dennis
The staff were very friendly but the bedroom was very tired.
Leisure Partner
10/10
Exceptional
20 Mar 2023
Sally

Stunning.

I stayed for three nights in March, traveling on my own. Beautiful old building. Staff are very attentive with your needs.
I had a single room, WOW it was beautiful. VERY comfy bed with fresh white cotton bedding. There was also a thick throw in the wardrobe if you were cold. With a dressing table and stool and a armchair. The bathroom was very big with a nice warm shower. Towels supplied were very soft and clean. I couldn't of been more comfortable and settled. From my bedroom and the bathroom windows I had a stunning view of the Cathedral. In the restaurant below I had some scummy Italian food. Very fresh and cooked to perfection. I loved it.
The rooms are up some VERY steep stairs. So please be prepared. Definitely no good if you are not great at climbing. Parking in Wells is horrendous so best to use taxi.


There is only one little thing I would change. Ok n the bedroom they provide a kettle and coffee making provisions. They are on the dressing table with fresh water. But sadly this is up against the radiator. Which makes the fresh water very warm. Maybe put it on a shelf near the TV instead. But over all it's still a 10/10 for me.
Business
8/10
Excellent
30 Jan 2023
Lisa

Lovely hotel

Lovely hotel. A bit noisy with restaurant, radiators and room was very hot. Lovely lady at breakfast who’s cooking was fab but was on her own run round like a headless chicken
Partner
8/10
Excellent
23 Jan 2023
David
Interesting building. Helpful staff. Central location. Easy, free street parking 10 minute walk away.
Partner
4/10
Poor
16 Dec 2022
robin

Exhausting birthday ☹️☹️

The stairs are absolutely treacherous the staff were lovely and brought my things up I had to crawl up. The room I booked was freezing as the window wouldn't shut and blinds broken so given an upgrade gratefully but then the heat in main bedroom wasn't on properly and so tried to sleep on little pullout couch with the extra blankets in the cabinet. but so uncomfortable and lumpy had to move to big bed in night freezing with 3 big blankets and duvets on bed warmed up by 4 and drifted to sleep. At 8:15 outside my window crashing of slates drilling pounding... I was shown there was scaffolding and told some work was being done but as I checked in at 2 pm the day before and there was no sign of works being done figured it was stopped for the holiday period, but no. I told lady on the phone about cold and disturbance and later went to check out. It was a different girl and she just asked if I had paid my bill, but I could see the lady I spoke to 2 feet away on computer pretending she didn't see me. As it was my birthday (she was aware) I didn't want to argue and just left tired with a headache and headed to premier Trying to add a photo of work men less than a foot from my window but won't let me upload ☹️
Friends_and_family Friends
8/10
Excellent
31 Oct 2022
Stephen James

Comfortable stay in the middle of Wells.

You have to accept that rooms have to fit into an old building. Perfectly comfortable, but rooms and bathrooms could do with a bit of attention. Wonky shelves, chipped paint. But all clean and comfortable.

Service is very good.

Great view of the cathedra.
Partner

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The Ancient Gatehouse Hotel
20 Sadler Street, Wells, United Kingdom

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The Ancient Gatehouse Hotel

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