A LIST of 50 ‘secrets of Somerset’ has been published and we are visiting one of the featured location each week.

You can view the full list on our website at countygazette.co.uk/secretsomerset. This week, PAUL JONES visits Wells Cathedral...

THERE is no escaping the glory of Wells Cathedral.

Almost as soon as you step into the streets of England’s smallest city, even on a miserable, grey day, as I did, the Gothic splendour acts as a magnet, drawing you to the picturesque surrounds and the cathedral itself.

Built between 1175 and 1490, the cathedral is considered by some as the first truly Gothic structure in Britain, featuring with stunning carved capitals and breathtaking mouldings.

But the cathedral is only the beginning, as Wells boasts a large number of ‘associated’ buildings still intact. The nearby Bishop’s Palace and Vicars’ Close are equally notable in their own ways.

And for film buffs, a visit to Wells is also a chance to take in a raft of locations from the film Hot Fuzz, which starred Simon Pegg and Nick Frost.

The Crown pub, the town fountain, as well as the and Bishop’s Palace, are all featured, with a number of other recognisable spots from the film within easy walking distance.

For more information on Wells Cathedral, visit wellscathedral.org.uk.