We’re delighted to present our traditional full-service restaurant set in an iconic property in the heart of the Somerset cathedral city of Wells – a welcoming dining space where historic charm is complemented by the tempting tapestry of Mediterranean cuisine.
We are proud to have sensitively redeveloped the Wells old Post Office – the Grade II listed building on Market Place – transforming it into an atmospheric, elegant and comfortable fine-dining restaurant.
Being a listed building in a conservation area that has been used for various purposes over the two centuries since it was first built in 1835, renovating, altering and refurbishing the property for our purpose was a labour of love we were pleased to undertake.
A planning application had to be submitted for approval before we could go ahead and make the changes needed to turn the old Post Office building with its utilitarian interior into a relaxed, upscale restaurant. We ensured that the work would cause no harm to the building, its character or its surroundings and, in fact, would enhance the setting of nearby heritage sites, such as Cathedral Green.
It’s not surprising that a restaurant modelled on an Italian style ristorante seems a good fit for this lovely building, which Historic England describes as “early-mid 19th century, built in Doulting stone with classical features — including Tuscan pilasters/columns, a frieze and pedimented details with semicircular arched openings”.
The building was originally constructed in 1835 as a former market house, designed by Richard Carver – well-known Somerset architect of churches and secular buildings. It was later used for various civic functions, including as a police station and fire station in the early 20th Century, before becoming the post office.
When it came to putting a name to our new restaurant in Wells, Il Postino – translated as The Postman – seemed the natural choice. It pays tribute to all the postmen and post office staff who performed such a vital service in the building we now call home over many years.
Il Postino is also the title of a much-loved critically-acclaimed Italian comedy-drama film released in 1994 which won BAFTA and Academy Awards.
It seems the building that now houses Il Postino was destined to celebrate a combination of Somerset heritage and Italian style, while bringing a taste of marvellous Mediterranean cuisine to Wells.
We’re pleased and proud to take our place in the heritage of Wells’ Market Place which dates back to medieval times when a market charter was granted in the 12th century. There are still popular weekly markets held on Wednesdays and Saturdays.
When you visit Wells for the market – or any other reason – we look forward to welcoming you at Il Postino.
