The Ancient Gatehouse & Rugantino Restaurant Hotel Wells Exterior photoThe Ancient Gatehouse & Rugantino Restaurant Hotel Wells Exterior photoThe Ancient Gatehouse & Rugantino Restaurant Hotel Wells Exterior photo

The Ancient Gatehouse & Rugantino Restaurant, Wells

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From$122 /night
Check-in
02Sept
Check-out
03Sept
Rooms and Guests2 Guests, 1 Room
Key details

About the Hotel

20 Sadler St, Wells, BA5 2FE
-
Next to Wells Cathedral
Great
8.8
9.2
/10
4.7
4.2
/5

4-star luxury hotel facing Wells Cathedral

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.

Select your room type

The Ancient Gatehouse & Rugantino Restaurant 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
    13 sq. feet
    1 Double bed
    Heating
    Shower
  • Superior Double Room Cathedral View
    2 persons
    14 sq. feet
    1 Double bed
    Bathtub
    Heating
  • Classic Single Room Cathedral View
    2 persons
    10 sq. feet
    1 Single bed
    Heating
    Shower
Show all rooms

Price and Room Availability Calendar

Check availability and prices for your dates now!
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Check-in/ Check-out

Facilities

The Ancient Gatehouse & Rugantino Restaurant offers amenities for your comfortable stay and unforgettable experiences
Facilities: Great
8.7/10Review score

General

  • No smoking on site
  • Wi-Fi
  • Parking
  • 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
Show more

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 Location

20 Sadler St, Wells, BA5 2FE
Explore Wells
Explore Wells
  • Top Attractions
  • Activities
  • Dining
  • Entertainment
Wells Cathedral
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
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
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
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
    Wells 3 min  ·  700 ft
  • Airports
    Bristol (BRS) 47 min  ·  19.1 mi
    Exeter International (EXT) 142 min  ·  58.6 mi
  • Bus
    Bus stop 14 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
Public parking is possible at a location nearby at .
Internet
Wireless internet is available in the entire hotel 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:
8

Reviews and Ratings

Feedback about The Ancient Gatehouse & Rugantino Restaurant from previous guests about their experience.
Review score
Based on 556 verified reviews
8.6 /10
Great
91 %
Recommend
Breakfast
8.3/10
Cleanliness
9.2/10
Comfort
9.2/10
Facilities
8.7/10
Free WiFi
7.9/10
Location
9.8/10
Paid Wi-Fi
9.9/10
Staff
9.6/10
Value for money
8.7/10
Guest reviews
based on 556 reviews
8.6/10
based on 285 reviews
3.5/5
based on 962 reviews
8.8/10
Nathaniel from United Kingdom
Single
Classic Single Room Cathedral View
3 nights in November 2025
|
Reviewed: February 16, 2026
9.3/10

FANTASTIC Stay

convenient location great view spacious room cute staff
The hotel boasts a GREAT location overlooking the cathedral. The room provided enough space for clothes. The shower worked very well. The staff was cute and chatty.
THE bathroom mirror light did not function.
Location
9/10
The central location offers good access to shops. Pubs and restaurants are nearby. Historic sites are also within easy reach. It made exploring VERY convenient.
Service
9/10
The hosts were very friendly. They are accommodating, providing helpful recommendations for local restaurants. I noticed they were very responsive and attentive. They always had a smile.
Dining
10/10
The hotel restaurant offers very good food with fast service. Professional staff served everything quickly. It felt both efficient and enjoyable. I HIGHLY recommend it.
0 Helpful
|
Show less
Ian from United Kingdom
Single
Classic Double or Twin Room
4 nights in November 2025
|
Reviewed: January 28, 2026
6/10

Acceptable Location, Disappointing Room Conditions

worn carpet chipped paintwork
The location was acceptable , directly opposite the cathedral.
The room felt scruffy. The carpets were worn through , and the paintwork was chipped and peeling. The furniture felt old and really needed replacing. Traffic noise caused constant disturbance , and I was woken up early in the morning by loud noises outside.
0 Helpful
Sophia from Greece
Single
Superior Double Room Cathedral View
3 nights in November 2025
|
Reviewed: January 10, 2026
9/10
superb location helpful staff great breakfast
The location is superb. It is very close to the cathedral. The staff assisted me with my luggage. It was much appreciated. Breakfast was amazing!!!
The stairs were a bit narrow. It was slightly inconvenient.
0 Helpful
Michael from United Kingdom
Business traveller
Classic Double or Twin Room
4 nights in November 2025
|
Reviewed: December 31, 2025
9/10
comfy bed delicious food friendly 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 location helpful directions broken light unrenewed 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 table fresh towels shops nearby on-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
|
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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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