The Ancient Gatehouse & Rugantino Restaurant, Wells ➤ Reviews, Rooms & Prices 2026

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Key details

About the Hotel

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

Steps from Wells Cathedral

Great

8.7

9.1

/10

3.8

4.2

Loved by The Ancient Gatehouse & Rugantino Restaurant Hotel guests

Unique bedrooms
Sensational view
Accommodating staff
Comfortable bed
Delicious meals

"Wells is magical and having the view of the cathedral like we scored from both rooms is a rare treat."

Sergei from United States

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"My wife and I stayed at the Ancient Gatehouse last week first staying in room 7 then room 9 both rooms were so comfortable and gave a real sense of history like stepping back in time 500 years but with all the mod cons."

Adi Brown

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"The room was lovely and had a nice clean bathroom."

Catherine

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Accommodations

The Ancient Gatehouse offers a range of luxury hotel accommodation options in Wells, each providing direct views of Wells Cathedral. Guests may choose from individually designed rooms that reflect the historical charm of the city. With striking views and thoughtful amenities, each stay emphasizes the historic surroundings.

Location

Situated on Wells Cathedral Green, the hotel is just yards from the ancient marketplace, allowing guests to easily explore Somerset's historic beauty spots. As the smallest city in England, Wells boasts a compact center with cobbled streets and medieval architecture. This prime location ensures that guests are immersed in the rich history and culture of the area.

Dining

The Rugantino Restaurant on-site serves delicious Italian cuisine crafted from local ingredients. Guests have the option to enjoy meals in a hospitable atmosphere that pays homage to traditional flavors. Dining at the hotel adds a culinary dimension to the overall stay, highlighting regional culinary practices.

Views

The most prominent feature of The Ancient Gatehouse is its priceless views of Wells Cathedral, which attracts numerous visitors each year. The architectural grandeur of the cathedral enhances the experience of staying at the hotel. Guests can appreciate the scenic beauty and rich history at every turn.

Accessibility

Accessibility is facilitated by the hotel's central location, allowing visitors to easily navigate Wells and the surrounding Somerset area. Guests can reach key historic sites and attractions without the need for extensive transportation. The convenient position is beneficial for both leisure travelers and those wishing to explore the local heritage.

Highlights

Location: Wells Cathedral Green .

Dining: Rugantino Restaurant .

Views: priceless views of Wells Cathedral .

Accommodation: individually designed rooms .

“This family-run boutique hotel stands out with its personalized service and historic ambiance, enhanced by the centuries-old spiral stone staircase; the location is outstanding, with stunning views of Wells Cathedral and the Cathedral Green. Its specialization in traditional Italian cuisine is a treat, particularly at the Rugantino Restaurant. I find this place a cozy base for exploring the area.”

James DavidEditor-in-Chief at Tohotel

Location: Perfect

9.7/10Review score

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Highlights from guests

DiningItalian Excellence

The Rugantino restaurant served a delicious supper. The pizza was huge, worth sharing! Breakfast was also excellent, with lovely coffee.

Oliver from Canada

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Guest ParkingEasy Parking

I received useful information about public parking options. A nearby Waitrose offers long-stay parking.

Rajesh from India

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BedroomComfort Defined

The superior double room offered lovely views of the green and cathedral. The four-poster bed was sturdy and extremely comfortable.

Isabelle from France

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BathroomLuxurious Bath

The bathroom featured a luxurious copper bathtub, a modern shower, and a WC. Hot water was available within seconds.

George from Australia

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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

8.2/10Review 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

The Ancient Gatehouse features the excellent Rugantino Restaurant, a delightful hub for authentic Italian cuisine. With an inviting atmosphere that blends traditional charm and culinary finesse, guests can enjoy meals that cater to a variety of dietary needs, ensuring a satisfying dining experience for all.

Rugantino

Authentic Italian

Ambiance

A traditional setting with a warm and welcoming atmosphere, perfect for casual meals or cozy gatherings.

Key Offerings

Specializes in mouthwatering Italian dishes, while also offering traditional English table dhôte menus. Dishes available cater to vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, and dairy-free preferences.

Reservation

Recommended

Thursday to Sunday from 12:00 - 20:00

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

Local Highlights Near The Ancient Gatehouse

Wells Cathedral

4 minutes' walk

Gothic architecture and stunning interiors; a must-visit for historical enthusiasts.

The Bishop's Palace and Gardens

7 minutes' walk

Historic palace with beautiful gardens; enjoy seasonal flower displays and guided tours.

Wells and Mendip Museum

2 minutes' walk

Local history and geology exhibits; family-friendly with interactive displays.

Wookey Hole Caves

30 minutes walking, 8 minutes' drive

Fascinating limestone caves; includes tours, attractions like a 4D cinema, and child-friendly activities.

Hiking at Ebbor Gorge

40 minutes walking, 8 minutes' drive

Scenic hiking trails for thrill-seekers with breathtaking views of the countryside.

Relaxation at Milton Lodge Gardens

19 minutes' walk

Serene gardens perfect for a peaceful stroll or picnic amidst stunning flora.

Rugantino Restaurant

0 minutes' walk

Italian cuisine with a cozy atmosphere; signature dishes include homemade pasta and wood-fired pizza.

Great Shakes

2 minutes' walk

Casual café known for delicious milkshakes and light bites; a hit with families.

West Cornwall Pasty Company Wells

2 minutes' walk

Local pasty shop with a variety of fillings; perfect for a quick, hearty meal.

A2 Gallery

4 minutes' walk

Art gallery showcasing local talents; features exhibitions and community events.

Wells Comedy Festival

varies by venue, typically within 10 minutes' walk

Annual festival featuring local comedians and entertainment; family-friendly performances available.

Getting around

City Centre

Wells3 min · 700 ft

Airports

Bristol Airport (BRS)47 min · 19.1 mi

Exeter International Airport (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 534 verified reviews

8.6/10

Great

90%

Recommend

Breakfast

8.2/10

Cleanliness

8.9/10

Comfort

8.7/10

Facilities

8.2/10

Free Wi-Fi

8.6/10

Location

9.7/10

Paid Wi-Fi

9.0/10

Staff

9.4/10

Value for money

8.4/10

Pros

Hospitable staff

Spotless room

Great location

Ample tea things

Cons

Filthy carpet

Steep stairs

No reception

Dark building

based on 285 reviews

3.5/5

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Questions of the users

About The Ancient Gatehouse & Rugantino Restaurant

What parking options are available near the hotel?

10 December 2024

The Ancient Gatehouse does not have an onsite parking facility, but there are several nearby options. Overnight parking is available free of charge within the cathedral precinct from 16:00 until 10:00 the next morning. Additional free parking can be found 20 meters up the road or on New Street, just a 2-minute walk away. For those willing to walk a bit further, free parking is also available along Ash Lane, taking approximately 5 to 10 minutes. There is a paid car park on Whiting Way, about 5 minutes away, costing £6.50 for an overnight stay.

Are dogs allowed in the hotel?

18 March 2025

Yes, well-behaved dogs are welcome to stay in the rooms at the Ancient Gatehouse.

Do the rooms come with ensuite bathrooms?

12 April 2025

All guest rooms at the Ancient Gatehouse feature ensuite bathrooms for added comfort and privacy.

Is breakfast included in the booking rate?

25 February 2025

Breakfast is not included in the booking price through booking.com. However, it can be added for £12.50 per person. It's recommended to message the hotel directly to arrange this.

What time is breakfast served?

15 January 2025

Breakfast is available from 07:30 to 09:30 on weekdays, while it is served from 08:00 to 09:30 on weekends.

Is there Wi-Fi access available for guests?

22 August 2024

Yes, complimentary Wi-Fi is provided for all guests at the Ancient Gatehouse.

Can luggage be stored before check-in?

6 October 2024

Yes, luggage can be left at the hotel prior to check-in time, allowing guests to explore the area freely.

Is the staircase in the hotel accessible for guests?

3 November 2024

The hotel features several staircases; while the initial flight is regular, the ascent to some upper rooms includes a steeper staircase and a spiral stone staircase for the cathedral view suite.

What types of views are available from the four-poster rooms?

28 February 2025

Among the two available four-poster rooms, one offers a view of Wells Cathedral, while the other provides a street view.

Are pets allowed in the restaurant of the hotel?

10 January 2025

Unfortunately, dogs are not permitted in the restaurant area.