Why Wells-next-the-Sea is the perfect destination
With its unique blend of natural beauty and cultural heritage, this gem of a destination has something for everyone. Whether you’re a nature enthusiast, a history buff, or simply in need of some relaxation with your loved one or the whole family, Wells next the Sea has it all.
From exploring the breathtaking coastline and famous beach to indulging in delicious seafood at one of the town’s renowned restaurants and cafes, this ultimate guide will help you plan the perfect getaway.
The town is located on the North Norfolk coast, surrounded by stunning landscapes and breathtaking views. It is known for its award winning, pristine sandy beach which stretches for miles and provides the perfect spot for sunbathing, swimming, and beach combing.
The town itself is a charming mixture of historic buildings, quaint shops, bustling cafes and a wide range of cottages to rent…creating a unique atmosphere that is both inviting and captivating for locals and visitors alike.
Having lived in the town ourselves for over three years, we absolutely loved its vibrancy in the summer and the calmness of winter. Now based in Norwich, we still visit and stay often seeing old friends making many more new memories. A simply wonderful part of Norfolk!
Whether you’ve been before or thinking about a future visit, why not pack your bags, leave your worries behind, and embark on an unforgettable holiday in Wells next the Sea? We personally recommend it.
Best time to visit Wells next the Sea
The best or should we say, the most popular time to visit Wells-next-the-Sea is during the summer months, when the weather is warm and sunny, and the town is at its liveliest. This is the perfect time to enjoy the beautiful sandy beaches, take a dip in the sea, and soak up the vibrant atmosphere.
The summer months also coincide with a range of events and festivals, including the Wells Carnival, which features a variety of activities such as live music, parades, and fireworks.
However, it’s worth noting that Wells-next-the-Sea can get pretty busy during the summer months, so if you prefer a quieter holiday, you may like to consider visiting in the spring or autumn, when the town is less crowded but still offers plenty to see and do.
Top attractions in Wells-next-the-Sea
Wells next the Sea is home to a range of top attractions that are sure to captivate visitors of all ages. A ‘must-see’ and hard to miss is the Wells Harbour, a hugely popular quayside that is bustling with activity. Take a stroll along the quay, watch the fishing boats come and go, try your hand at crabbing and enjoy the stunning views of the marshes and the sea beyond.
This a really popular spot to enjoy fish & chips, nearly every afternoon onward you’ll find scores of people enjoying this local delicacy, sat all around the quay enjoying their food and taking in the views.
For those interested in history, the Wells Maltings is worth a visit. Located just up from the quay in the heart of the town, the Maltings is an Arts, Heritage and Community Centre which opened its doors to the public back in July 2018 following a large-scale refurbishment project. Offering a busy year round programme of theatre, film, music, talks, exhibitions, family based and drop in events.
One of the main attractions all year around is Wells next the Sea beach, a beautiful sandy beach backed by colourful beach huts that stretches for miles and offers plenty of opportunities for sunbathing, swimming, and beach combing.
Take a coastal charter
These wonderful harbour tours depart from East Quay at Wells Next The Sea, and all Trips are taken aboard the Historic Lifeboat and Dunkirk Veteran ‘Lucy Lavers’ a stunning, restored lifeboat. You will see lots of wildlife, amazing views of the beach, marshland, visiting yachts and much, much more. Such a unique experience and certainly worth making time for. The tour takes about 1.5 hours.
See the beautiful beach at Wells from the water, enjoy drifting with the tide as you take in the view of one of the uk’s most stunning beaches and enjoy a cup of tea, coffee or a cold drink whilst you take in the views. Blissful!
Exploring the beach at Wells-next-the-Sea
The beach at Wells next the Sea are a major draw for visitors, and it’s easy to see why. Located a short walk from the town and boasting miles of sandy beach, which is perfect for sunbathing, splashing about, and beach combing.
This beautiful long sweeping sandy beach backed by dunes, colourful beach huts and fragrant pinewoods is simply blissful. Enjoy and take in the wide horizons and stunning views of the sea, the perfect spot for a day of relaxation and family fun. The beach is equipped with all the amenities you need, including public toilets, a beach café, and plenty of parking.
If you’re looking for a more secluded beach, head to Holkham Beach, which is located just a short drive from Wells next the Sea town, alternatively you can walk as Holkam beach joins Wells. This stunning beach is part of the Holkham Estate, it is said to be one of the most beautiful beaches in the UK and offers miles of unspoiled coastline, backed by sand dunes and pine forests.
This truly is where the sky meets the sea, there is nowhere better from which to experience the dramatic grandeur of Norfolk’s vast skies and never ending horizons.
Dining options in Wells next the Sea
Wells next the Sea is known for its delicious seafood, and there are plenty of dining options to choose from. Whether you’re craving fresh fish and chips, a seafood platter, or a gourmet meal, you’ll find something to satisfy your taste buds in Wells next the Sea.
Our favourites in Wells-next-the-Sea for a coffee & cake are:
☕️ Wells Beach Cafe @wellsbeachcafe
☕️ Wells Deli @wellsdeli
☕️ 2 Magpies Bakery @2magpiesbakery
☕️ The Golden Fleece @thegoldenfleece_wells
☕️ Bang in Wells @banginwells
☕️ The Globe in Wells @theglobeatwells
☕️ Wells Maltings @wells_maltings
If you’re after something tasty we can highly recommend:
🐟 French’s Fish & Chips @frenchsfandc
🐟 Plattens Fish & Chips @plattensfishchips
🐟 Wells Crab House @wellscrab
🐟 Sands Restaurant @sandsrestaurant
Like to explore a little more? Try…
Tips for a perfect holiday in Wells next the Sea
Here are just a few tips while visiting or staying on holiday in fabulous Wells:
Where to stay in Wells-next-the-Sea
Staying in a holiday cottage in Wells next to the Sea offers a wide range of benefits. Firstly, you have the freedom to come and go as you please, without the restrictions of hotel check-in and check-out times. Norfolk coastal cottages in Wells next the Sea also offer the flexibility to cook your own meals, giving you flexibility on whether you eat out or not.
Our holiday cottages are located in and around the town offering a peaceful and relaxing environment to unwind in after a busy day exploring this fabulous part of the North Norfolk coast. Plus, with self-catering facilities, you can enjoy a home away from home experience.
If you’re considering bringing your dog on holiday too, why not check our our Dog Friendly Norfolk Guide: Explore Fabulous Beaches, Cottages & Restaurants. We answer the questions we hear all the time from fellow dog owners. Where are the best beaches for dogs? What’s the perfect place to stay with your four-legged friend? Worth a read for sure.
Below is a selection of our latest cottages to rent in Wells next the Sea, just to get your started if you’re looking for a place to stay in the future…
Or if you need some help?
Send us a few details, we’re happy to help you on your way…
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Wells-next-the-Sea, North Norfolk • Bedrooms 8
Chancery House
Nestled down the quiet high street in the heart of Wells-next-the-Sea on the North Norfolk coast, this destination, luxury holiday home presents eight sumptuous bedrooms and seven bathrooms spread across this charming former Victorian shop and adjoining house.
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Wells-next-the-Sea, North Norfolk • Bedrooms 1
Old Whelk House
Welcome to this a charming upside-down holiday let in Wells-next-the-Sea, North Norfolk, perfectly situated on East Quay with stunning views of the quay. Perfect for a couple or small family looking for a seaside escape on the North Norfolk coast.
Fabulous holidays in Wells-next-the-Sea
Wells next the Sea is the ultimate holiday destination, offering a perfect blend of natural beauty, cultural heritage, and seaside charm. Whether you’re looking to relax on the beach, explore the stunning coastline, or immerse yourself in the town’s history and culture, you’ll find plenty to see and do in Wells next the Sea.
From the breathtaking Holkham National Nature Reserve to the delicious seafood restaurants, this gem of a destination has something for everyone. So pack your bags, leave your worries behind, and escape to Wells next the Sea for the perfect holiday getaway. We know you’ll love it.
