Thomas Beckington and William Knight black plaque

This black commemorative plaque records: The Market Place Bekynton's New Works This row on the north side of the Market Place was provided by Bishop Bekynton in 1451-52. He had planned to build a complete square but only this side was constructed. It is known as 'Bekynton's New Works'. The Conduit The present water fountain was erected by the City Corporation to replace an earlier mediaeval conduit built by Bishop Bekynton in 1451 and demolished in 1797. Near the present conduit stood the High Cross built by Bishop Knight in 1542 with money bequeathed by Dean Woleman to replace an earlier 14th century cross. It was used for important civic occasions and by market traders until demolished From 1601 until demolished in 1779, a long rectangular pillared market house stood in the centre of the Market Place, The upper storey comprised two rooms one the Council Chamber/Exchequer, which was also used as a courthouse and the other a wool store. The ground floor housed a fire engine. Its construction marked the final relocation of the market from the High Street to the present site. Recorded plaque organisation: Wells Civic Society.

Thomas Beckington, Bishop of Bath and Wells from 1438-1465, is remembered for his significant contributions to the architectural landscape of Wells, including the construction of 'Bekynton's New Works' in the Market Place. The Rt Rev. William Knight, Bishop of Bath and Wells from 1529-1547, is noted for commissioning the High Cross in 1542, which served as a focal point for civic events and market activities until its demolition in 1779.