DiscoverPlaces to seeUnited KingdomEnglandSouth West EnglandSomersetMendipWells
Scissor Arches in the Nave
DiscoverPlaces to seeUnited KingdomEnglandSouth West EnglandSomersetMendipWells
Scissor Arches in the Nave
Tips
MCW73
4 days ago
Hiking
The striking scissor arches inside Wells Cathedral are one of the most remarkable architectural marvels of the medieval world. Designed by master mason William Joy in the 14th century, these unique structural braces were not built merely for decoration—they were a desperate and ingenious engineering solution to a critical crisis.
Structural Rescue: When the central tower was heightened in the early 1300s, the underlying foundations and piers began to sink and crack under the massive weight, threatening the entire structure with collapse.
Structural Rescue: When the central tower was heightened in the early 1300s, the underlying foundations and piers began to sink and crack under the massive weight, threatening the entire structure with collapse.
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Nearby routes
Best routes near Scissor Arches in the Nave
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20m
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Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily walkable paths.
Moderate
Details
Informations
Elevation 90 m
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Thursday 5 November
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10 %
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Expect light wind and shifting conditions.
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