Vicars Close (Wells)
Vicars Close is one of the most delightful features of the tiny cathedral city of Wells.
It is situated on the edge of the Cathedral Close, and consists of two terraces facing each other. This is believed to have been the model for the more famous colleges at Oxford.
Vicars Close, originally known as the College of Vicars, is the oldest intact mediaeval street in Europe, and dates from the 14th century. It is linked by a bridge to Wells Cathedral, so that the clergy who lived there would not have to go into the town.
The college was founded in 1348 and only disbanded in 1934.
To this day, the Close is occupied by employees of the cathedral.