The Old Deanery, Wells facts for kids
Quick facts for kids The Old Deanery |
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The Gatehouse of The Old Deanery
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| Location | Wells, Somerset, England |
| Built | 12th century |
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Listed Building – Grade I
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| Designated | 12 November 1952 |
| Reference no. | 483309 |
The Old Deanery is a very old and important building in Wells, Somerset, England. It is right next to the famous Wells Cathedral. This amazing building was first built way back in the 1100s! It's so special that it's officially protected as a Grade I listed building. This means it's a historic site that must be kept safe. Its gatehouse and boundary walls are also part of this important listing.
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A Look at the Old Deanery's History
The Old Deanery stands on the beautiful Cathedral Green. It was originally built in the 12th century, which means it's over 800 years old!
Changes Over the Centuries
Over time, the building has been changed and updated.
- In the late 1400s, a person called Dean Gunthorpe rebuilt a lot of it.
- Later, in the late 1600s, Dean Bathurst made more changes. He updated the south side of the building.
- The south side has six sections, called bays. These bays have windows from the 17th century.
What is the Old Deanery Used For Now?
For many years, the Old Deanery was the home of the Dean of Wells Cathedral. A Dean is a very important priest who leads the cathedral.
New Uses for the Building
The Old Deanery is no longer the Dean's home.
- It used to be offices for the Diocese of Bath and Wells. A diocese is an area managed by a bishop.
- It also had a special center for Christian education.
- Since the year 2000, the building has had a lot of rebuilding work.
- A new oak staircase was added inside.
- A new floor was built above the education area.
- The church offices have now moved out of the Old Deanery.
- As of 2020, the building is for sale.
The Famous Herb Garden
One interesting part of the Old Deanery is its garden.
- Between 1551 and 1568, a man named William Turner was the Dean.
- He was also a famous naturalist, someone who studies nature.
- Dean Turner created a special herb garden at the Deanery.
- This garden was full of useful plants and herbs.
- Between 2003 and 2010, this historic herb garden was recreated.
