The Ancient Gatehouse & Rugantino Restaurant, Wells — Top Rated (8+) from $124| BestHotel.net

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The Ancient Gatehouse & Rugantino Restaurant Hotel Wells Exterior photo

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Key details

About the Hotel

20 Sadler St, Wells, United Kingdom, BA5 2FE

Next to Wells Cathedral

Great

8.7

9.2

/10

4.6

4.2

Location

The Ancient Gatehouse is situated on Wells Cathedral Green, offering immediate access to the West Front of Wells Cathedral. This historical location allows guests to easily explore nearby landmarks, just yards away from the ancient market place. Guests can enjoy picturesque views of Wells Cathedral, a site that attracts thousands of visitors annually.

Architecture and Design

This hotel captures the essence of Somerset with its medieval architecture and cobbled streets surrounding the property. Preserving the historic charm of England's smallest city, the hotel invites guests to immerse themselves in the unique character of Wells. The Ancient Gatehouse provides a direct link to the city's rich heritage.

Dining Experience

Rugantino Restaurant, located within the hotel, specializes in authentic Italian cuisine made from seasonal ingredients. Guests can experience a variety of dishes, carefully prepared to highlight the flavors of Italy. The dining atmosphere complements the historic setting, providing a memorable culinary journey.

Accessibility

The Ancient Gatehouse is centrally located, making it easy for guests to walk to nearby attractions, shops, and dining venues. This prime location encourages exploration of Wells without the need for transportation. The compact city layout allows visitors to enjoy the best of this quaint destination in a short time.

Views and Surroundings

With unbeatable views of Wells Cathedral from various vantage points in the hotel, guests can appreciate this architectural marvel throughout their stay. The hotel's setting on Cathedral Green ensures a serene environment while surrounded by historic landmarks. Visitors can find themselves immersed in the scenic beauty that characterizes Wells.

Highlights

Location: Wells Cathedral Green, facing the West Front

Dining: Rugantino Restaurant with authentic Italian cuisine

Attractions: Yards away from the ancient market place

Scenery: Unbeatable views of Wells Cathedral

Must-do experiences

Visit Wells Cathedral and climb the tower for stunning views.
Enjoy a cream tea at The Bishop's Eye across from the cathedral.
Explore the ancient Vicar's Close, the oldest residential street.
Discover unique crafts at Wells Market on Wednesdays and Saturdays.
Try the seasonal specials at Rugantino for authentic Italian flavors.

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Select your room type

The Ancient Gatehouse & Rugantino Restaurant Hotel offers a variety of rooms including double rooms, family rooms, and suites with breakfast, free cancelations, and special deals

Classic Double or Twin Room

2 persons

140 sq. feet

1 Double bed

Shower

Heating

room details

Superior Double Room Cathedral View

2 persons

155 sq. feet

1 Double bed

Heating

Bathtub

room details

Classic Single Room Cathedral View

2 persons

110 sq. feet

1 Single bed

Shower

Heating

room details

Double Room Four-Poster Bed

2 persons

90 sq. feet

1 Double bed

Shower

Heating

room details

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Facilities

The Ancient Gatehouse & Rugantino Restaurant Hotel offers amenities for your comfortable stay and unforgettable experiences

Facilities: Great

8.5/10Review score

General

No smoking on site
Wi-Fi
Car park
Off-site car park
Safe deposit box
VIP check-in/ -out
Express check-in/ -out
No pets allowed
24-hour security
Luggage storage
Coffee shop
Smoke detectors
Fire extinguishers
Key access

Sports & Fitness

Golf course

Guest Parking

Electric kettle

Services

Room service
Housekeeping

Dining

Restaurant
Bar/ Lounge area
Packed lunches
Special diet menus

Business

Fax/Photocopying

Spa & Leisure

Sun terrace
Garden area

Room features

Heating
Terrace
Garden furniture
Ironing facilities

Bathroom

Free toiletries

Self-catering

Electric kettle

Media

AM/FM alarm clock

Room decor

Carpeted floor

Dining Onsite

Experience a delightful culinary journey at The Ancient Gatehouse with onsite dining at Rugantino Restaurant. Specializing in authentic Italian cuisine with traditional flair, guests can enjoy meals in a warm, inviting atmosphere where dietary preferences are catered to with care.

Rugantino

Italian cuisine with traditional English table dhôte menus

Ambiance

A cozy, smoke-free dining environment that features a welcoming and rustic Italian decor

Key Offerings

Diners can indulge in a range of Italian dishes, prepared with fresh ingredients and creativity. The menu offers options for vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, and dairy-free diners, ensuring everyone can find a delightful meal.

Reservation

Reservations are recommended to secure your dining experience.

Open from Thursday to Sunday, 12:00 PM - 8:00 PM

The Ancient Gatehouse & Rugantino Restaurant Hotel Location

20 Sadler St, Wells, United Kingdom, BA5 2FE

Map view

20 Sadler St, Wells, United Kingdom, BA5 2FE

City landmarks

Cave

Wookey Hole Caves

1.6 mi

Landmark

Wells Artisan Quarter

2300 ft

Garden

Milton Lodge Gardens

5000 ft

Cemetery

Mendip Hospital Cemetery

1.1 mi

Landmark

Milton Lodge

4800 ft

Landmark

Pen Hill

2.0 mi

Landmark

Ebbor Gorge

2.3 mi

Store

Wells Reclamation Co

2.3 mi

Nearby

Church

Wells Cathedral

900 ft

Wells BA5 2PD

The Bishop's Palace and Gardens

1700 ft

Museum

Wells and Mendip Museum

600 ft

Vicar's Close Street

Vicar's Close

1200 ft

Gallery

A2 Gallery

1100 ft

Wells Market Place

600 ft

Church

St Cuthbert's parish Church

1600 ft

Library

Wells

800 ft

St Andrew St s/n Wells BA5 2UE

Scissor Arches

100 ft

Wells BA5 1US

The Bishop's Barn

1700 ft

Cathedral Green s/n Wells BA5 2UE

West Front

500 ft

1 Cathedral Green

Wells Cathedral Music School

700 ft

1 Vicar's Cl

Vicar's Chapel & Library

1200 ft

Park

Wells Recreation Ground

1600 ft

Restaurants

Great Shakes

400 ft

10 Heritage Courtyard Sadler Street

West Cornwall Pasty Company Wells

500 ft

1A Sadler Street Market Place

Parsons Bakery

500 ft

2 High Street

Costa Coffee

700 ft

16 High Street

Waitrose

900 ft

Whiting Way

Daniels Sandwich Bar and Cafe

1400 ft

5 Queen Street

Just Ales

1600 ft

38 Market Street

The Quarter Jack

2000 ft

18 Priory Road

Ram's Kebab

2000 ft

Princes Road

Explore Wells

Wells Cathedral

4 minutes' walk

A stunning example of medieval architecture, featuring intricate stonework and beautiful stained glass windows.

The Bishop's Palace and Gardens

7 minutes' walk

Home to the Bishop of Bath and Wells, this historic site offers beautiful gardens and a picturesque moat.

Wells and Mendip Museum

2 minutes' walk

Showcases the rich history and geology of Wells and the surrounding Mendip area with engaging exhibits.

Wookey Hole Caves

8 minutes' drive

Famous limestone caves featuring impressive rock formations, guided tours, and a range of family activities.

Hiking at Ebbor Gorge

8 minutes' drive

Thrilling hikes through rugged terrain with stunning views, perfect for nature lovers and adventure seekers.

Relaxation at Milton Lodge Gardens

19 minutes' walk

Peaceful gardens featuring seasonal blooms and serene walking paths, ideal for unwinding amidst nature.

Rugantino Restaurant

0 minutes' walk

Authentic Italian cuisine in a cozy atmosphere. Signature dishes include homemade pasta and a selection of fine wines.

Great Shakes

2 minutes' walk

Casual diner famous for its delicious milkshakes and hearty breakfasts; a family-friendly spot with a vibrant atmosphere.

The Rural Life Museum

2 minutes' walk

Offers fantastic family-friendly events such as crafts and storytelling sessions; a great way to engage with local heritage.

Wells Theatre

10 minutes' walk

Hosts a variety of performances, including drama and comedy; a cultural hub with a lively schedule of events for all ages.

Getting around

City Centre

Wells3 min · 700 ft

Airports

Bristol (BRS)47 min · 19.1 mi

Exeter International (EXT)142 min · 58.6 mi

Bus

Bus stop14 min · 5.5 mi

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Property information and rules

Check-in

from 14:00-23:59

Check-out

until 11 am

Guest Parking

Paid Public parking is possible at a location nearby.

Internet

Wireless internet is available in for free.

Breakfast

All visitors are offered a american breakfast for a fee.

Children & extra beds

There are no cots provided in a room.

Pets

Pets are not allowed.

Languages

English, Spanish, Italian, Romanian

Number of rooms:

Reviews and Ratings

Feedback about The Ancient Gatehouse & Rugantino Restaurant Hotel from previous guests about their experience.

Review score

Based on 525 verified reviews

8.6/10

Great

91%

Recommend

Breakfast

8.1/10

Cleanliness

9.0/10

Comfort

9.0/10

Facilities

8.5/10

Free Wi-Fi

8.7/10

Location

9.7/10

Paid Wi-Fi

9.0/10

Staff

9.5/10

Value for money

8.7/10

based on 285 reviews

3.5/5

Michael from United Kingdom

Business traveller

Classic Double or Twin Room

4 nights in November 2025

Reviewed:December 31, 2025

9/10

comfy beddelicious foodfriendly staff

The room included tea and coffee making facilities. The bed was comfy. The Italian restaurant downstairs served delicious food.

The bathroom mirror light wasn't working. The manager said LED bulbs burned out, and no repair happened

0 Helpful

Jordan from United Kingdom

Couple

Classic Double or Twin Room

3 nights in November 2025

Reviewed:December 25, 2025

6/10

decent stay NEAR the cathedral

convenient locationhelpful directionsbroken lightunrenewed machine

The location was convenient for seeing landmarks. It was directly in front of the cathedral, I could admire it from my window. The staff gave helpful directions. The restaurant offered good food and service, I enjoyed my meal there.

The bathroom mirror light didn't work, they blamed burnt out LED bulbs. The tourist office had not renewed map-selling machines. The receptionist told me the tourist office was across Cathedral Green outside the hotel.

0 Helpful

John from United Kingdom

Single

Superior Double Room Cathedral View

3 nights in November 2025

Reviewed:November 24, 2025

9.0/10

Cathedral View Gem

small tablefresh towelsshops nearbyon-time staff

My Superior Double Room Cathedral View included two chairs and a small table. I found the bathroom clean with fresh towels. The location of the hotel was near several shops. The staff were on time for check-in and check-out processes.

Street noise was noticeable at times.

Facilities

8/10

The room had adequate lighting with bedside lamps and an overhead fixture. A wardrobe provided space for hanging clothes. A television with access to many channels was available in my room.

Location

10/10

The hotel sat across from the cathedral, a very short walk away. Several restaurants were a brief walk from the hotel entrance. The town center was easy to reach on foot.

Service

9/10

The staff provided directions to local attractions. They were available at the front desk during posted hours. Staff responded quickly when I had questions.

0 Helpful

FAQs

About The Ancient Gatehouse & Rugantino Restaurant

What is the check-in and check-out policy at The Ancient Gatehouse & Rugantino Restaurant?

Check-in is from 14:00 and check-out is by 11:00.

How far is The Ancient Gatehouse & Rugantino Restaurant from Bristol Airport?

The hotel is 35 km from Bristol Airport.

What dining options are available at The Ancient Gatehouse & Rugantino Restaurant?

The hotel features Rugantino Restaurant, which specializes in authentic Italian cuisine.

Are there other restaurants near The Ancient Gatehouse & Rugantino Restaurant?

Nearby restaurants include Sadler's Brasserie, Goodfellows, Market Place Cafe, and Best Western Swan Hotel, all within 0.5 km.

What room amenities can guests expect at The Ancient Gatehouse & Rugantino Restaurant?

Rooms feature free Wi-Fi, premium bedding, digital TV, and coffee or tea making facilities.

What recreational facilities does The Ancient Gatehouse & Rugantino Restaurant offer?

The hotel provides access to a golf course and a garden.

What languages do the staff at The Ancient Gatehouse & Rugantino Restaurant speak?

The hotel staff speaks multiple languages to cater to diverse guests.

Is Wi-Fi available at The Ancient Gatehouse & Rugantino Restaurant?

Free Wi-Fi is available throughout the property.

What are the nearby attractions to The Ancient Gatehouse & Rugantino Restaurant?

Nearby attractions include Wells Cathedral, The Bishop's Palace and Gardens, and the ancient market place.

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