City breaks have become pricey recently, and even a domestic vacation in the UK may strain your finances. Fortunately, there are still destinations that offer good value for those seeking a getaway.
Generally, avoiding the main tourist hubs is the key to finding a budget-friendly city break. A lesser-known city in Somerset has been ranked as the top choice for the best-value UK city breaks by Which?, scoring 86%.
Wells in Somerset has outshone cities like Liverpool and Lincoln by earning four-star ratings for value for money, cultural sites, tourist attractions, and accommodations. Moreover, it remains possible to book a hotel room for under £100 per night, a rarity as prices soar nationwide.
Despite being England’s smallest city, Wells boasts charm and attractions within a compact, easily walkable area. Its renowned cathedral, Wells Cathedral, showcases impressive Gothic architecture and features The Bishop’s Palace & Gardens. Visitors can explore this medieval palace and its 14-acre gardens, which are home to wildlife like swans and deer.
Vicars’ Close, connected to the cathedral, is said to be Europe’s oldest residential street with its original buildings intact. Strolling through Wells feels like stepping back in time, with its quaint independent shops lining the High Street.
Wells also offers numerous cozy, historic pubs for unwinding after a day of sightseeing. The Crown, dating back to the 15th century, exudes a welcoming atmosphere, while The City Arms, established in 1606, once served as a local jail before transforming into a pub and inn.
This compact city is ideal for a weekend of hiking, with the Ebbor Gorge National Nature Reserve, a National Trust site, offering breathtaking views of the Mendip Hills from its limestone gorge. Several trails are available for exploring the gorge, including a challenging 1.9-mile route with rocky terrain but rewarding vistas.
Just a short drive away are the Wookey Hole caves, a must-visit attraction where visitors can tour the stunning caves, engage in climbing activities, and embark on adventure tours off the usual paths. The site also features a museum detailing the caves’ history and Dinosaur Valley, a prehistoric-themed park with life-sized animatronic dinosaurs and family-friendly trails.
Wells hosts a weekly market on Wednesdays and Saturdays, with festive events leading up to Christmas. The Bishop’s Palace will host an Artisan Christmas Market on November 8 and 9, followed by a Christmas market at the Market Place and Cathedral Green on December 6, offering over 100 stalls with festive food, gifts, and live music performances.
For an affordable staycation option, consider visiting Wells. This underrated historic city offers a quieter alternative to nearby tourist hotspots like Bath or Bristol, providing a peaceful weekend getaway option.
