Area guides

Wells-next-the-Sea

hero-image

A sweet and exciting spot on the Norfolk coast

area map
Wells-next-the-Sea
11 mins to Burnham Market
19 mins to Fakenham
36 mins to Sheringham
bg placeholder

Wonderful Wells! With its sandy beach and pretty candy-striped huts, it’s easy to understand why this sleepy coastal town is a Mecca for day trippers and holiday makers, but there are plenty of reasons to make Wells-next-the-Sea your permanent home and explore this sweet spot forever.

Wells-next-the-Sea

There are plenty of ways to explore the waterways that surround the area. For a nautical adventure, jump aboard one of the Coastal Exploration Company’s traditional wooden sailing boats and adventure hidden creeks, marshes and open sea. Or test your balance with a stand-up paddleboarding session with Barefoot SUP.

The lanes behind the harbour and surrounding the town have plenty of tucked-away fishermen’s cottages which are highly sought after, as are apartments with sea views in the converted buildings overlooking the harbour. Head out of the town centre to discover plenty of spacious, grand houses along with fantastic new-build developments which are ideal for young families and downsizers alike. With a bustling community, the town is well-serviced with a primary and secondary schools, plus a GP surgery and library.

For a hit of culture, head to Wells Maltings, an elegant heritage and community centre just off the quay which houses a theatre, cinema, gallery and café-bar. While away an afternoon browsing the town’s galleries – The Staithe Gallery, Gallery Plus and Quay Art – for some artwork to adorn your home. Discover gorgeous homewares at Nomad and the Bowerbird, relaxed country clothing at Christopher William Country and eco-friendly clothing and toys for little one at Ele and Me. Traditional butcher Arthur Howell is the place locals go to for high quality meat, and you might be lucky enough to bag some freshly caught fish straight off the boat, on the harbour wall. The Real Ale Shop at nearby Branthill Farm is a must for craft beer drinkers.

Alternatively treat yourself to a delicious meal at The Globe Inn or Crown Hotel overlooking the green, or push the proverbial boat out and head to Michelin-starred Morston Hall. For a simpler, yet equally quintessential Wells experience, share a box of fish and chips from French’s on the harbour wall and watch the sun slowly set over the water. Imagining yourself here already? Could this be your dream coastal home?

boat