Vicars' Close: A walk through the history of Europe's oldest residential street

A glimpse into history

Vicars’ Close was constructed between 1348 and 1430, primarily to house the Vicars Choral of Wells Cathedral. These were the priests responsible for chanting divine services eight times a day. The street was a visionary project by Bishop Ralph of Shrewsbury, who sought to provide a communal living space for the clergy, ensuring their proximity to the cathedral and fostering a sense of community.

Architectural marvel

The street is approximately 140 metres long and features 27 residences, originally 44, each with its own unique charm. The houses are built in a uniform style, with a unified roofline and raised chimneys, creating both a picturesque and cohesive appearance. The tapered width of the street, narrowing by about 3 metres from one end to the other, is a clever optical illusion designed to make the street appear longer when viewed from the main entrance. This design trick not only enhances the visual appeal but also demonstrates the advanced architectural knowledge of the time.

Historical context and Vicars' Close as a trailblazer

The construction of Vicars’ Close occurred during a period of significant social and religious transformation in England. The 14th century was marked by events such as the Black Death, which drastically reduced the population and led to economic and social upheaval. Despite these challenges, the church remained a central institution, and projects like Vicars’ Close were crucial in maintaining religious practices and community cohesion.

A living heritage

What makes Vicars’ Close truly unique is that it remains a living, breathing community. The houses are still inhabited, and the street continues to serve its original purpose of housing cathedral choristers. This continuity of use, combined with the street’s well-preserved medieval architecture, offers a rare glimpse into the past and a tangible connection to the history of Wells.

Preservation and restoration of Vicars Close

Over the centuries, Vicars’ Close has undergone various alterations and restorations to preserve its historical integrity. In the 19th century, significant repairs were made, including the construction of Shrewsbury House to replace buildings damaged by fire. More recently, a major restoration project began in 2024 to address issues such as water ingress and structural deterioration. This project aims not only to conserve the buildings but also to enhance the visitor experience by opening some houses to the public and creating informative displays about the street’s history.

Visiting Vicars' Close

For those interested in exploring Vicars’ Close, it is easily accessible from Wells Cathedral – also a Grade 1 listed building. Visitors can stroll along the cobbled street, admire the historic buildings, and imagine life in medieval England. The ongoing restoration efforts promise to make future visits even more enriching, with plans to provide detailed insights into the lives of the people who have called Vicars’ Close home over the centuries.

Owning a listed building

Living in a listed building comes with unique responsibilities. Owners must ensure that any renovations or repairs maintain the building’s historical integrity, often requiring special permissions and adherence to strict guidelines. One significant responsibility is obtaining appropriate insurance to protect the property. Listed buildings often require specialised insurance due to their age, construction methods, and historical significance.

Abode insurance for listed buildings

At Abode, we specialise in providing tailored insurance solutions for listed buildings and we truly understand the unique needs of historic properties.

If you’d like some advice, or a quote, please call us on 01622 476 433.