Shepton Mallet lies 5 miles to the east of the City of Wells and on the southern foothills of the Mendips. The town has a population of around 10,000 people. The town centre and beyond forms a conservation area with over 200 listed buildings, including the numerous Grade 11 Listed Buildings in Combe Lane and the 12th century Grade 1 Listed Parish Church of St. Peter and St. Paul. The Market Cross dates back to 1520 while Old Bowlish House dates to the early part of the 17th century. The town has 3 primary schools and secondary education at Whitstone School rated as ‘Good’ by Ofsted in 2013. The City of Wells, with its excellent independent schools, such as Wells Cathedral School, is within a 12 minute drive.