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 in Wells, England

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Check rooms and rates
From$122 /night
Check-in
12Sept
Check-out
13Sept
Rooms and Guests2 Guests, 1 Room
Key details

About the Property

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

Historic boutique hotel facing Wells Cathedral with authentic Italian dining

Dining

The hotel houses the Rugantino Restaurant, specializing in traditional Italian cuisine with a diverse menu. Family-run for over 43 years, the restaurant offers a welcoming atmosphere and is open to hotel guests and external diners. Special diet menus and packed lunches are available on request.

Rooms

Guest rooms are decorated with authentic period charm, including four-poster beds in select rooms. The centuries-old spiral stone staircase leads to rooms with views of Wells Cathedral and the Cathedral Green. En-suite bathrooms and premium bedding are provided.

Location

The hotel is set on Cathedral Green, directly facing the West Front of Wells Cathedral. It is just a few yards from the ancient market place and within walking distance of the Bishop's Palace. Somerset's historic beauty spots, including the Somerset Levels and Mendip Hills, are easily accessible.

Services

Complimentary WiFi is available throughout the property. On-site dry cleaning and laundry services are offered for guest convenience. Express check-in/check-out and luggage storage are provided.

History

The building is a historic gatehouse with a centuries-old spiral stone staircase and quaint, narrow passages. Family-run for over 43 years, the hotel ensures personalized service in a setting full of period character. Some rooms are accessed via the ancient tower stairway, adding to the sense of stepping back in time.

Highlights

Location: Facing Wells Cathedral on Cathedral Green

Dining: Rugantino Restaurant serving traditional Italian cuisine

Rooms: Four-poster beds and cathedral views in select rooms

History: 15th-century gatehouse with spiral stone staircase

Services: Complimentary WiFi and on-site laundry

Must-do experiences

  • Visit the stunning Wells Cathedral for its breathtaking architecture.
  • Try the locally-sourced lamb at Rugantino Restaurant for a true taste.
  • Stroll through the beautiful Vicar's Close, the oldest purely residential street.
  • Explore the Wells Market on Wednesdays for artisan goods and local treats.
  • Discover the hidden jewel of the Bishop's Palace garden for a peaceful escape.

Select your room type

The Ancient Gatehouse & Rugantino Restaurant features a range of room types across England, from double and family rooms to suites, with breakfast, free cancellation, and special offers included
  • Classic Double or Twin Room
    2 persons
    13 m²
    1 Double bed
    Heating
    Shower
  • Superior Double Room Cathedral View
    2 persons
    14 m²
    1 Double bed
    Bathtub
    Heating
  • Classic Single Room Cathedral View
    2 persons
    10 m²
    1 Single bed
    Heating
    Shower
Show all rooms

Price and Room Availability Calendar

Check availability and prices for your stay in England now!
September 2026 - September 2027
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Check-in/ Check-out

Facilities

The Ancient Gatehouse & Rugantino Restaurant provides amenities to make your stay in England comfortable and memorable
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

  • Public parking is possible at a location nearby at .

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

The Ancient Gatehouse & Rugantino Restaurant: Location in England

20 Sadler St, Wells, BA5 2FE
Explore Wells
Explore the Local Scene
  • Top Attractions
  • Activities
  • Dining
  • Entertainment
Wells Cathedral
Wells Cathedral
4 minutes' walk
A stunning example of Gothic architecture, Wells Cathedral features intricate sculptures and beautiful stained glass.
The Bishop's Palace and Gardens
The Bishop's Palace and Gardens
7 minutes' walk
This historic palace surrounded by stunning gardens offers tours showcasing its rich history and beautiful landscapes.
Wells and Mendip Museum
Wells and Mendip Museum
2 minutes' walk
A local history museum featuring exhibits on Wells' past, including archaeology and natural history.
Wookey Hole Caves
Wookey Hole Caves
8 minutes' drive
An awe-inspiring network of caves known for their stunning limestone formations and family-friendly attractions.
Pen Hill Hiking
11 minutes' drive
A popular hiking destination offering breathtaking views; ideal for thrill-seekers looking for adventure.
Relaxation at Milton Lodge Gardens
19 minutes' walk
A peaceful garden experience perfect for relaxation and leisurely strolls amidst beautiful greenery.
Rugantino Restaurant
0 minutes' walk
An Italian gem offering authentic dishes like wood-fired pizzas and handcrafted pasta in a cozy atmosphere.
Great Shakes
2 minutes' walk
A delightful café known for its indulgent milkshakes and creative sweet treats, perfect for a casual snack.
Costa Coffee
3 minutes' walk
A cozy spot to grab a quick coffee or tea, with options for light bites in a relaxed environment.
West Cornwall Pasty Company
2 minutes' walk
A casual eatery specializing in traditional Cornish pasties, ideal for a hearty lunch on the go.
Wells Little Theatre
10 minutes' walk
A charming venue showcasing local productions; check out their schedule for plays and comedy nights.
Bishop's Palace Gardens
7 minutes' walk
A family-friendly space with seasonal events, including outdoor cinema and guided garden tours.
Getting around England
  • City Centre
    Wells 3 min  ·  200 m
  • Airports
    Bristol (BRS) 47 min  ·  30.8 km
    Exeter International (EXT) 142 min  ·  94.3 km
  • Bus
    Bus stop 14 min  ·  8.8 km
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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

Guest Reviews and Ratings

What previous guests said about staying at The Ancient Gatehouse & Rugantino Restaurant.
Review score
Based on 557 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
Pros
Historic building character
Convenient location
Quality breakfast
Authentic Italian cuisine
Cons
Limited parking
Steep stairs
Guest reviews
based on 285 reviews
3.5/5
based on 950 reviews
8.8/10
No reviews yet on our siteUnfortunately, our guests have not yet left any reviews for this hotel, but you can read reviews from Booking.com.
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