Beautiful Somerset market city named one of the UK's best places

The 'beautiful' market city of Wells in Somerset has been lauded as one of the UK's 'best' places to visit. Despite technically not being a town, this medieval gem is often referred to as England's smallest city due to its population of 12,000 living under the shadow of its magnificent cathedral, which grants it city status.

Although eight times larger than Britain's smallest city - St David's in Wales - Wells is a charming and quiet place that has now been crowned the best inland town in Britain by Which? The town received top marks for attractiveness and tourist activities following a survey of members.

Film enthusiasts may recognise Wells as the backdrop for the fictional village of Sandford in the hit film Hot Fuzz, featuring Simon Pegg and Nick Frost alongside a host of other British stars. Iconic film locations such as the Swan Hotel, the corner shop famous for Cornettos, and the marketplace where the climactic gunfight takes place are all real spots fans can explore, reports the Mirror.

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However, Wells isn't just a one-hit wonder; it's become a popular choice for Hollywood, appearing in TV series Doctor Who, Wolf Hall, and the upcoming Dungeons and Dragons movie. But don't be fooled by its quaint, movie-backdrop worthy appearance.

Wells is brimming with entertainment options, making it an ideal destination for holidays, weekend getaways, or even a day trip. The Wells Cathedral, nestled in the heart of the city and recognised as England's first Gothic cathedral, is a must-see.

This magnificent edifice took three centuries to build and is worth visiting for its architectural splendour alone. It is home to over 300 sculptures, Britain's oldest functioning mechanical clock dating back to the 14th century, and offers daily tours that delve into the city's rich history.

Just a stone's throw away from the cathedral is the historic Wells Market Place. Open on Wednesdays and Saturdays, it's the perfect spot to pick up fresh produce, sweet treats, and homemade crafts.

For photography enthusiasts, Vicar's Close is a must-visit. As Europe's oldest residential street, it features beautiful stone brick homes, a cobblestone street, and a breathtaking view of the cathedral - making it an unforgettable stop on your visit.

After sightseeing, be sure to drop by the Wells and Mendip Museum. Established by renowned Victorian geologist Herbert Balch in 1893, it displays a remarkable collection of artefacts from the nearby Mendip Hills and exhibitions that illuminate the city's history.

Glastonbury Tor, renowned for its mythical and literary past, beckons hiking enthusiasts with a scenic countryside hike. This historic tower, near Wells, offers stunning views and serenity for nature lovers.

Wells, a charming city, has garnered praise for its captivating attractions. The majestic cathedral, with its architectural grandeur, leaves visitors awestruck.

The city center offers intriguing exploration, and the market held every Saturday brims with artisanal delights and handmade crafts.

For those seeking culinary experiences, the Swan Hotel, featured in the movie Hot Fuzz, and the City Arms, located in the former city jail, are highly recommended. The Swan Hotel offers classic British cuisine and afternoon tea, while the City Arms boasts a wide selection of beers, ciders, and delectable pub fare.

Wells' allure is evident in the glowing reviews it has received on TripAdvisor. One enthusiastic visitor said: "The cathedral is an amazing and beautiful building. The centre of Wells is also interesting and well worth exploring. As an added bonus, there's a great market in the square each Saturday.-artisan foods and crafts."

Another visitor echoed this sentiment, stating: "This is a lovely place to spend the day, especially on market day. There are lots of independent shops including coffee shops and the Crown hotel offers lovely lunches that are reasonably priced."