Make the Most of Summer: Family Adventures in Wells

Wells, the smallest city in England, is big on charm—and even bigger on summer fun for families. Whether you're visiting for a weekend or lucky enough to live nearby, July is a perfect time to enjoy the fresh air, local events, and open spaces that Wells has to offer.

This guide rounds up the best family-friendly outdoor activities in Wells this July, from royal gardens to playful parks and nature-filled trails.

1. Explore the Gardens of The Bishop’s Palace

Where: Off Market Place, central Wells
Why It’s Great for Families: 14 acres of space for kids to roam, climb, and discover
What to Expect:

• Adventure play area with castle-themed equipment
• Moat walks, ducks to feed, and a peaceful family picnic zone
• “Palace Gardener” trail and kids' activities throughout July

Special Event: The “Medieval Family Day” (mid-July) includes storytelling, crafts, and fancy dress.

2. Walk the Wells Moat and City Trail

Where: Start at the Bishop’s Palace entrance or Market Square
Why It’s Great for Families: Easy loop suitable for little legs and buggies
What to Expect:

• Gentle circular route around the historic moat
• Swans, ducks, and photo-worthy views of the cathedral
• Storyboards and interactive QR codes for kids

Tip: Stop at Loaf Bakehouse for child-friendly snacks and ice cream.

3. Picnic & Play at Tor Hill Park

Where: Wookey Hole Road, just outside the city centre
Why It’s Great for Families: Open fields, shaded trees, and a fab playground
What to Expect:

• Swings, slides, zipline, and climbing frames
• Large grassy areas ideal for picnics and ball games
• Free entry and close to public toilets

Bring a blanket and some local goodies from Wells Market (Wednesdays and Saturdays).

4. Attend “The Wells Theatre Festival”

Where: Outdoor venues across the city (early July)
Why It’s Great for Families: Street theatre, puppetry, and free performances
What to Expect:

• Family-friendly plays in the Bishop’s Palace Gardens and Cathedral Green
• Open-air shows and workshops for children
• A buzzing, creative atmosphere with food trucks and stalls

Check out the “Family Fringe” programme for events tailored to younger audiences.

5. Wookey Hole Caves & Dinosaur Valley

Where: Just a 10-minute drive from Wells
Why It’s Great for Families: Outdoor areas and fantasy-themed fun
What to Expect:

• Prehistoric valley with life-sized dinosaurs and dino-dig zones
• Crazy golf, fairy garden, and woodland trails
• Great for ages 3+ and open every day in July

Although not strictly in Wells, it’s a nearby must-do for curious young adventurers.

6. Go Wild at Mendip Hills AONB

Where: Mendip Hills, 15 minutes from Wells
Why It’s Great for Families: Free-range fun and wildlife spotting
What to Expect:

• Kid-friendly trails at Ebbor Gorge and Deer Leap
• Scenic views and picnic spots perfect for day trips
• Free parking and dogs welcome

Pack your binoculars for butterfly and birdwatching—or try a mini scavenger hunt.

7. Visit Wells Market for Local Snacks and Sweet Treats

Where: Market Place, Wednesdays & Saturdays
Why It’s Great for Families: Delicious nibbles and friendly traders
What to Expect:

• Homemade lemonade, brownies, and savoury pastries
• Ice cream carts and local fruit stalls
• Free samples and space to eat outside by the fountains

Pair your market visit with a cathedral picnic or post-lunch ice cream at Café Twenty-One.

🏡 Bonus for Locals: Have a Garden Adventure

If you’re lucky enough to have a garden or outdoor space in Wells, why not turn it into a mini adventure park?

• Create a nature-themed treasure hunt
• Build a tent or fairy den
• Stargaze on clear summer evenings

Sometimes, the best memories are made just a few steps from home.

🏠 Thinking of Letting Your Property in Wells?

Summer is peak season in Wells—and many families are looking for self-catered homes with gardens, kitchens, and space to spread out. If you're heading away this summer or have a second property, now’s the perfect time to list it as a short-term rental.

Pass the Keys Wells, operated by your local expert Anthony, provides full-service property management—from listing creation and guest communication to professional cleaning and maintenance. You earn, we handle the rest.

Whether you're offering a cosy city flat or a countryside cottage near the Mendips, we’ll help you unlock your property's full potential.

🌼 Final Thoughts

Wells in July is bursting with family-friendly fun—from castles and caverns to theatre and trails. With long summer days and plenty of open space, it's the perfect time to unplug, explore, and make memories together.

So grab your sun hats, pack a picnic, and let Wells be the backdrop to your best summer yet.