A History of Llewellyn’s Almshouse, Wells, 1614-2026

A detailed history of a regional almshouse and the family who founded it.

For many decades the Llewellyn family and the almshouse founded by Henry have been overlooked by historians of Wells. This book not only gives an account of the family’s origins, but also their contribution to Wells during the sixteenth century, the establishment of Llewellyn’s almshouse, some information on its residents and the many changes on the site in Priest Row over a period of nearly four centuries.

This book is enhanced with over 80 images showing a range of subjects including architectural plans, documents, people, buildings, maps, family trees, and the impressive monument to Henry Llewellyn in St Cuthbert’s church.

Thanks to the bequest by Henry Llewellyn in 1614 and the judicious management of the almshouses by generations of trustees, his legacy continues to this day. Hundreds of men and women have benefitted from the housing at Preist Row. As the 400th anniversary of the establishment of the first buildings in 1634 quickly approaches, this book provides a fitting tribute to all those who have played a role in its history.