With its medieval streets, soaring cathedral, and tranquil moat around the Bishop’s Palace, Wells feels like stepping into a living history book. September is one of the most rewarding months to visit: the summer rush fades, daylight is still generous, and the Mendip Hills glow with early autumn colour. Market squares hum with local chatter, cider makers prepare their harvest, and the city hosts a surprising variety of cultural and seasonal events.

Here’s your detailed look at what to see, where to celebrate, and how to experience Wells at its most atmospheric in September.

1. Wells Cathedral Music & Choral Events

• Where: Wells Cathedral Nave, Chapter House, and Vicars’ Close.
• Why It’s Special: The cathedral’s centuries-old acoustics turn every concert into a spine-tingling experience. September often features organ recitals, choral evensong, and guest ensembles.
• What to Expect: Free lunchtime concerts, candlelit evening performances, and opportunities to hear the famous Wells Cathedral Choir in its home setting.

2. Wells Food Festival Warm-Up & Local Markets

• Where: Market Place and surrounding streets.
• Why It’s Special: While the main Wells Food Festival happens in October, September brims with smaller tasting events, local-producer pop-ups, and the city’s twice-weekly markets (Wednesdays & Saturdays).
• What to Expect: Somerset cheeses, artisan breads, cider tastings, charcuterie, preserves, and stallholders eager to share family recipes and food heritage.

3. Somerset Open Studios (13–28 September 2025)

• Where: Studios and galleries across Wells and wider Somerset.
• Why It’s Special: Artists throw open their workspaces, giving rare insight into creative processes.
• What to Expect: Meet local painters, sculptors, ceramicists, and textile artists; browse works in progress; and buy direct from makers in intimate, informal settings.

4. Heritage Open Days (Second & Third Weekends of September)

• Where: Historic buildings throughout Wells – from medieval almshouses to hidden gardens.
• Why It’s Special: Free entry to sites often closed to the public, part of England’s biggest heritage festival.
• What to Expect: Behind-the-scenes tours, costumed guides explaining centuries of Wells history, family trails, and pop-up exhibitions revealing stories of the city’s medieval merchants and monastic past.

5. Wells Moat Boat Races & Community Fun (Check local listings for dates)

• Where: Bishop’s Palace Moat.
• Why It’s Special: A light-hearted community competition where local teams race homemade rafts around the moat.
• What to Expect: Family-friendly laughter, cheering crowds, local food vans, children’s games, and plenty of photo opportunities against the palace backdrop.

6. Late-Summer Mendip Walks & Nature Activities

• Where: Ebbor Gorge, Wookey Hole trails, and the Levels.
• Why It’s Special: September weather is ideal for walking, birdwatching, and photography.
• What to Expect: Guided wildlife rambles, apple orchard tours, crisp mornings followed by mellow afternoons, and sweeping views of cathedral towers framed by golden fields.

7. Cider Season Events & Farm Visits

• Where: Orchards and cider barns on the edge of Wells.
• Why It’s Special: Somerset’s cider-making heritage is centuries deep; September is peak apple-picking time.
• What to Expect: Orchard walks, apple-pressing demonstrations, limited-batch tastings, and farm shops stocked with chutneys, cheeses, and fresh-pressed juice.

Other Things To Enjoy Year-Round

• Wells Cathedral & Chapter House: Climb the spiral staircases and admire the unique “scissor” arches.
• Bishop’s Palace & Gardens: Fourteen acres of medieval walls, drawbridge, and reflective pools.
• Vicars’ Close: Britain’s oldest continually inhabited street.
• Wookey Hole Caves: Dramatic limestone caverns and family attractions just outside the city.
• City Centre Pubs & Tearooms: Warm Somerset hospitality in historic buildings.

Conclusion

Wells in September blends history, culture, and countryside charm in a way few cities can match. From open studios and heritage weekends to cider farm visits and cathedral concerts, every corner of England’s smallest city invites exploration before the full hush of autumn sets in.

For a smooth, memorable stay, partner with Pass the Keys – Anthony, Wells’ trusted short-let expert. Whether you’re seeking a cottage near the cathedral or a Mendip-view retreat, Anthony’s team ensures your holiday rental is welcoming, well-managed, and perfectly placed to enjoy everything September in Wells has to offer.