Wells-next-the-Sea
Your essential guide to visiting Wells-next-the-Sea on the North Norfolk Coast
Welcome to Wells Guide
Wells-next-the-Sea is one of the loveliest towns on the North Norfolk Coast
From the long sweeping beach bordered by pine woodland, around the bustling harbour with small fishing boats unloading their catch and children sitting on the quayside fishing for crabs; along Staithe Street with its traditional family-run shops; to the tree-lined Buttlands square with its fine Georgian architecture and welcoming taverns – Wells is an unspoiled seaside destination, waiting to be discovered.
About Wells
Fishing port, seaside attractions, fabulous sandy beach and a haven for wildlife. Discover more about this charming North Norfolk coastal town.
Where To Stay
If you’re planning a stay in Wells, there’s a wide range of accommodation choices, from luxury hotels and holiday cottages, to caravans and camping.
Things To Do
Plan great family days out & fun-filled activities, browse forthcoming local events & see what’s on at all the region’s top attractions.
Plan Your Visit
Essential travel and transport information for visitors to Wells, including driving directions, route maps, train timetables and car parking.
Wells Top 10
There’s so much to see and do in Wells, it’s hard to pick a Top 10, but we did it – check out our must-do activities and make sure you don’t miss out!
Beach Info
Everything you need to know to enjoy a day on Wells’ famous beach – including parking, beach safety, and where you can walk your dog.
Wells-next-the-Sea is situated in the heart of the North Norfolk coast – a designated Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty with over 40 miles of glorious beaches, unspoiled landscapes and protected wildlife habitats.
Once an important commercial seaport and manufacturing town, now a popular seaside destination, Wells is still a working fishing port where you can watch the boats unload their catch.
The quay is a favourite spot for crabbing – or gillying as it’s known locally – with families lined up along the harbour wall from dawn until dusk. Hungry visitors are well served with two fabulous fish ‘n’ chips shops right on the quay.
Wells is famous for its stunning beach – complete with scores of colourful beach huts – that is without doubt one of the best in the country.
Miles of soft, golden sand stretch into the distance. Shorebirds nest in the dunes and feed in the shallow pools. Seals bask in the sunshine at the water’s edge.
Between the quay and the beach there’s a scenic walk with stunning views of the harbour and salt marshes, and a 10¼” gauge miniature train – perfect for carrying tired little legs back to town after a long day building sandcastles, playing games and splashing about in the crystal clear water.
Behind the beach you’ll find the scented Corsican pine woods – established 150 years ago to protect the land from storms and tides, they’re a delight to explore, while offering a cool and shady respite from the sun.
Immediately to the west of Wells is the Holkham Estate, with it’s own famous beach, palladian hall, family adventure activities and extensive nature reserve.
To the east are the seal colonies and bird sanctuary at Blakeney Point, accessible via regular daily boat trips.
The North Norfolk coast is wild, breathtaking and beautiful, and Wells-next-the-Sea is the perfect location from which to explore the region’s unique and spectacular landscape.
Featured Holiday Cottages
Walnut Cottage
Walnut Cottage is a beautifully restored and presented 18th century holiday cottage situated in central Wells. Located on the old High Street in a quiet position just 5 minutes walk from the Quay with pubs, shops and restaurants.
Wisteria Cottage
Wisteria Cottage is the perfect luxury holiday retreat for adults only. A charming Grade II listed brick and flint cottage built around 1828, it's located only a few hundred yards from both the town and the quayside.
The Old Bakery
Situated on the High Street, The Old Bakery has been restored to provide a comfortable and contemporary holiday experience. Sensitively modernised in 2016, it still maintains its original charm.
