About Wells

Wells is a small seaside town with a population of just over 2,000 townsfolk, situated centrally on the North Norfolk coast. Almost the entire 50 mile stretch of coastline from Snettisham in the west to Mundesley in the east is a designated National Landscape, (formerly Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty) and Wells is perfectly located as a base from which to explore the area.

Wells-next-the-Sea is a popular tourist destination in its own right,  renowned for its expansive Beach and colourful beach huts. The iconic overhanging harbour gantry, and Crabbing off the Quay alongside families eating fish ‘n’ chips, are among the town’s indelibly memorable features.

If you’re new to Wells, pop into the Visitor Information Centre for friendly and helpful advice and information. The centre stocks maps and walking trails of the local area, and leaflets for many local attractions. It’s located in the Wells Maltings building on Staithe Street.

Wells is a very dog-friendly town and they receive a warm welcome everywhere, with water bowls and doggy treats readily available. Some eateries even provide dog menus, and dogs can enjoy puppuccinos and pupsicle iced treats at the Beach Café. Both The Globe and The Crown offer dog-friendly rooms.

View the Highlights for more information on the town and its charms.

The region has become increasingly popular among tourists, second home owners and new residents alike – understandably so, as Norfolk is blessed with a multitude of world-class Visitor Attractions.

For devotees of heritage and history, the region is peppered with Stately Homes, both privately owned and in the care of The National Trust. Sandringham Estate, Houghton Hall, Oxburgh Hall, Blickling Estate and Felbrigg Hall are all deserving of a visit.

Nearest to Wells is Holkham Hall, an 18th-century Palladian mansion built by Thomas Coke, 1st Earl of Leicester. Visitors can enjoy boating, cycle hire, a woodland play area, walled garden and parkland complete with deer herd and walking trails.

The Holkham Estate owns much of the land in and around Wells including the beach and pinewoods.

Wells is surrounded by charming coastal villages, from Cley next the Sea and its famous windmill to Blakeney, home to the much-visited seal colonies.

Further inland, picturesque Burnham Market and the historic market town of Holt are both popular with shoppers, known for their independent shops, art galleries, antique shops and boutiques.

There are wildlife and nature reserves across the region – barely has one ended than another begins. Birdwatchers are particularly well served, and Seal Spotting is a firm favourite with holidaymakers.

And of course, it’s the seaside! Beaches stretch for miles all along the coast, with raucous arcades and exhilarating funfairs entertaining holidaymakers in larger towns.

Visit Things To Do for more inspiration.

The Norfolk coast has always been famous for its seafood. Cromer crab, brown shrimp, lobsters, cockles, mussels and oysters are all traditional favourites. From Frary’s fish stall on Wells Quay you can buy the day’s catch straight off the boat.

Recent years have seen a flowering of refined restaurants and upmarket gastro pubs all across the region. The highest quality local produce and provenance is a key attraction for restaurateurs, chefs and patrons alike. North Norfolk is now a destination for those searching out exceptional dining venues.

But there’ll always be a place for that great seaside staple – good old fish ‘n’ chips! Wells has two fabulous chippies right on the Quay, selling the best fish suppers money can buy.

Sitting on the harbour wall, fending off the seagulls, watching the crabbers dangling their lines and the fishermen working – while tucking in to salty chips and battered cod – is surely the essence of a visit to Wells-next-the-Sea.

Explore Food & Drink for more dining options.