The Old Deanery

The Old Deanery is a medieval building on Cathedral Green in Wells with a two-story south front featuring six bays and decorative details. Sash windows from the 17th century dominate the facade, offering views over the cathedral green and creating the structure's distinctive appearance.

The building served as the residence for 62 Deans of Wells Cathedral beginning in 1230 and was converted into administrative offices in 1958. This long period of ecclesiastical use shaped its role for more than seven centuries before its conversion.

Dean William Turner established a notable herb garden during his tenure between 1551 and 1568, which was later recreated from 2003 to 2010.

The building underwent major renovations in 1989 that added an oak staircase and created a new first floor above the education department. Note that it is now a private residence and can only be viewed from the outside as a Grade I listed landmark.

In 2022, after roughly 800 years of church ownership and use, the building transitioned to private residential ownership for the first time. This marked the end of an era where the deanery had remained closely tied to the cathedral's operation.

Location: Wells

Inception: 12 century

GPS coordinates: 51.21067,-2.64561

Latest update: December 14, 2025 18:47