The Ancient Gatehouse Hotel

It is without doubt one of the finest views I have ever had from a hotel window - set upon the arch of the gateway to the cathedral, and looking back at the structure in all its glory. We had the much anticipated Room Nine, which is in the tower above the arch and has a distinctly medieval feel. its accessed by a thin passageway off the first floor, followed by a rather daunting accent up a winding stone tower stairway which is not suitable for anyone with either height issues or accessibility problems - Its an adventure, but be aware you need to be able to climb these steep steps to get to it! Once you get to the room its a treat. A hand carved four poster, the view, the sheer feel of history and nostalgia all add to the sense its a bit of a romantic fantasy. The bathroom, is a couple of steps below on the same stairwell just outside the door. Again, access wise its a little steep, and if you have had a couple of 'Ales' you need to be careful of the short journey down those steps. But its a great bathroom, one of the most luxurious I have come across. It retains period charm with a ostentatious full size copper bathtub, but mixes a bright modern shower and WC without any compromise. Hot water is there within seconds and room is huge. Me and my wife had the most wonderful two days, and Wells was another great discovery. Loads of pubs and restaurants. a food market on Saturday, the cathedral, castle moat and great explorations through the town. Sadly, we did not get chance to sample the restaurant that was attached to the property, we simply ran out oftime - but the menu looked very good. Things to know: A) Parking is not nearby, at least five to ten mins walk albeit flat. We opted for fifteen mins and parked for free to the north on the roads outside the town, but there are long stays at the Waitrose for a fee. B) Room nine (ours) is not suitable for anyone who struggles with access (as above), but most other rooms looked perfectly fine in this regard. C) Two o'clock check in, and eleven o'clock check out are generous nowadays - and a credit to the management. D) Staff were extremely helpful (even when we locked our key in the room by mistake). keys give access 24/7 E) Great nights sleep, not a sound except the occasional dull chime of a cathedral bell.