The UK’s cheapest city break has been revealed and it’s a gorgeous destination to visit during the autumn and winter months especially if you like a good walk
City breaks have gotten expensive of late, and even a staycation in the UK can leave your bank account feeling drained. Luckily, there are still some destinations that offer value for money if you’re looking to get away for a while.
In general, staying away from the major tourist hotspots is the best way to get a city break bargain. One city in Somerset that is unlikely to be on your bucket list has topped Which?’s list of the best-value UK city breaks, with an overall score of 86%.
Wells in Somerset beat competitors from Liverpool to Lincoln to clinch four-stars for value for money, cultural sites, tourist attractions and accommodation. Best of all, it’s still possible to get a hotel room for under £100 a night, which is becoming increasingly difficult as prices rise across the UK.
Officially England’s smallest city, it manages to pack plenty of charm and attractions into a compact, walkable space. Part of the reason it was given city status in the 1970s was due to its impressive cathedral which has become an icon. Wells Cathedral has an impressive gothic style and includes The Bishop’s Palace & Gardens. You can tour this spectacular medieval palace as well as the 14-acres of gardens where you can spot wildlife including swans and deer.
The cathedral also connects to Vicars’ Close, a cobbled road that is reportedly Europe’s oldest residential street that still has its original buildings. Just wandering around Wells feels like you’ve stepped back in time, and the High Street is full of charming little independent shops that are fun to wander round.
Wells also has lots of cosy, historic pubs where you can relax after a day of exploring. The Crown dates back to the 15th century and has a warm, welcoming vibe, while The City Arms was built in 1606, and was the local jail for some time before becoming a pub and inn.
This compact city is also perfect for a weekend of walking. The National Trust site Ebbor Gorge National Nature Reserve sits on a limestone gorge and offers spectacular views across the Mendip Hills. There are three different trails you can take to explore the gorge, the longest and most difficult is 1.9 miles and involves some rocky terrain, but is worth it for the views.
Just a few minutes’ drive away are the Wookey Hole caves. You can tour these beautiful caves and even take part in activities such as climbing or taking adventure tours off the beaten paths. Wookey Hole also has a museum where you can learn about the history of the caves, and is home to Dinosaur Valley, a prehistoric-themed park with life-sized animatronic dinosaurs and fun, family-friendly trails.
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Wells has a weekly market on Wednesdays and Saturdays, and in the run up to Christmas, there are festive-themed events planned. An Artisan Christmas Market takes place at the Bishop’s Palace on November 8 and 9, then on December 6 there’s a Christmas market at the Market Place and Cathedral Green. This will host over 100 stalls, and promises festive food, gifts, and live music performances.
If you’re looking for an inexpensive staycation, consider a trip to Wells. This underrated historic city is less crowded than nearby Bath or Bristol, but still makes for a relaxing weekend away.