Wells Cathedral: New entry charge for tourists

Wells Cathedral said it needed more income to maintain its upkeep

Tourists at Wells Cathedral will have to pay an entry fee in the future, it has been announced.

The cathedral said it was changing its admission guidelines because more money was needed to maintain it.

The Venerable Anne Gell, Acting Dean, said: "We need adequate income to ensure that this beautiful cathedral is here for everyone as a beacon of hope and light."

It currently costs £4,500-a-day to run the Grade 1-listed cathedral.

At the moment there is a voluntary suggested donation. Although there will be a new entry fee for visitors who are not at the cathedral to pray, local people will have free passes.

Wells Cathedral will also remain free to enter for worship, prayer, and to light a candle.

The Acting Dean said: "All money that is raised is ploughed back into the cathedral to fund worship and mission, care and restoration of the fabric, visitor operations, hospitality and outreach."

The cathedral said that it receives limited funding from the church and government. It relies on donations, legacies and grants as well as the income it can generate for itself.

In 2017, Wells was used as a film set for the movie Hellboy, although the cathedral did not disclose how money it received.

Wells Cathedral said it needs more income to maintain its upkeep

The new entrance fee charges and changes will be introduced from 22 April.

Entry will be free for those living within the parish boundaries of the City of Wells, under 18s, parishioners in the diocese and accompanying carers of paying adults with a suggested donation of £8. 

The new tourist admission charge of £14 includes access to any exhibition, a ground floor tour, children's activities and 12 months of re-entry. Anyone who believes they are eligible for free entry can apply for an application form on the Wells Cathedral website.