The port and town of Wells next the Sea stands on the edge of the salt marshes and the North Sea and the twice daily high tides and low tides regulate life and activity. At high tide boats float and activity is water borne, at low tide the water drains away to reveal massive expanses of sandy beaches. The salt marshes which form the banks of the many winding salt water creeks provide a unique habitat for flora and fauna. For a few hours most months even these are submerged by the high tides.
Wells has been a port since medieval times and despite the pressures of more recent development there is much of old Wells still in evidence. Cottages nestle together with narrow yards and alleys running between them and connecting them; Staithe street, in which the shops used to serve the needs of the ships in the harbour, narrowly descends to the quay with a perfectly framed view of the main channel and the beach beyond; the Beach Bank which tries to keep the North Sea in the right place, forms an easy footpath and cycle track to the beach 1 mile away. You can also get there by road and car park or the beach bus.
Please note
Details of venues are changing frequently and these changes may not be reflected on this page, we advise visitors to check directly with the provider for up-to-date information.
There is much to do in and around Wells and here are a few ideas:
On the beach — swim, paddle, sunbathe, build sandcastles, walk
On the paths and cycle ways — walk, cycle, long or short distance, to a pub or restaurant, walk back or bus back. The North Norfolk Coastal path runs through the town and past our front gate — walk it all or walk it in bits. The Coasthopper bus service can take you to and from many locations along its length.
On the water — harbour tours, seal trips, angling trips, bring your own sailboat, skiboat, windsurfer, kayak, rowboat or swim
In the town — shop, explore, history walks, take the view, eat, drink, go to the theatre or cinema
Within a short, walk, bus trip or drive — Three stately homes, Poppyline steam railway, Wells to Walsingham Miniature railway, Walsingham shrines, Fakenham Horse races, Norwich cathedral, castle, museum and shops
Recommendations for eating out are always a bit difficult as it depends so much on what kind of cuisine and/or atmosphere and/or price you are looking for. My first choice would be to eat in Wells because there really is a very good choice and this avoids the taxi issue. Assuming you are looking for a good quality restaurant or pub/restaurant that is open in the evening and that is priced around £20-£40 per head for a 3 course meal:
Bang in Wells
The White Horse, Brancaster Staithe
If you are looking for something special, with a Michelin Star, try Morston Hall
On the water or the beach or the marshes, please stay safe. If in doubt, ask for local advice.
Kings Lynn Station
Norwich Station
Sheringham Station
Wells to Cromer Coasthopper bus
Wells to Kings Lynn Coastliner bus
North Norfolk Railway ("Poppy Line" Steam Railway)
Wells to Walksingham Miniature Railway Theatre, Film and Music at the Maltings
North Norfolk Coast Path and Peddars Way
Local area (within 10 miles)
Other Useful Links and Information
Blakeney Point Seal Trips
Stateley Homes
Buses and Trains
Film, theatre, music
Footpaths and Nature Reserves