Holiday Properties in Wells-next-the-Sea

The seaside town of Wells-next-the-Sea is bursting with charm, featuring cafés, restaurants, and independent shops dotted around the harbour and beyond. Whether you’re crabbing on the quayside, sipping cider at Whin Hill, or cruising around the harbour and salt marshes, this is the great British holiday at its finest.

When you leave the cosy comfort of your holiday home to start a day of adventure, a day trip to the beach is a must!

Wells Beach is just a few minutes drive away and boasts a stunning stretch of golden sand, backed by pine woods and an iconic row of beach huts, offering a perfect day by the water.  After sampling some fresh pizza from the Beach Café, you can sunbathe, swim, build sandcastles or fly a kite – it’s also the perfect location for any nature lovers or birdwatchers. The beach is part of the Holkham National Nature Reserve, giving visitors the opportunity to spot rare birds or even some seals! 

Nature enthusiasts can also enjoy birdwatching at Pensthorpe Natural Park, a 700-acre wildlife haven offering a mix of nature trails, enchanting gardens, and family-friendly activities. Families will love WildRootz, an eco-friendly outdoor play area, and Hootz House, an indoor adventure space perfect for all-weather fun. The park also hosts seasonal events, including a Sculpture Trail featuring artists from across the UK. 

Adventure seekers may wish to take an exhilarating seal-watching trip to Blakeney Point, home to England’s largest seal colony! The best way to see these incredible creatures up close is by taking a boat tour from Morston Quay, where several local operators run trips throughout the year. Such as, Beans Boat Trips, Bishops Boats, Temple Seal Trips, and John Bean Seal Trips, all of which have been running family-friendly excursions for decades and know all there is to know!

For those who prefer to keep their activities on dry land, why not hop on a bike and explore the Nelson Loop, an 18-mile scenic routes with lots to see along the way.  Named after Admiral Lord Nelson, who was born in the area, the route passes Burnham Thorpe, Creake Abbey, and Stanhoe, providing plenty of opportunities to stop for refreshments and take in the local heritage. Local farm shops in Walsingham and Creake Abbey showcase the best of Norfolk’s produce, perfect for stocking up on indulgent treats.

The town of Wells-next-the-Sea itself is known for its vibrant arts scene, independent shops, and cosy cafés, particularly along Staithe Street, where visitors can browse local crafts, unique gifts, and beautifully curated artwork. The town boasts several charming galleries, showcasing a mix of local artists, coastal landscapes, and sculptures. Highlights include The Staithe Gallery, Metamorphosis The Gallery, and Saltmarsh and Samphire, each offering a distinct experience that captures the essence of North Norfolk's beauty.

Wells Maltings is a vibrant arts and community hub in the heart of Wells-next-the-Sea, offering live theatre, film screenings, exhibitions, and cultural events throughout the year. With an onsite café and dedicated art gallery, it’s also a fantastic spot to experience local creativity and heritage.

If you’re lucky enough to catch Wells Carnival Week, you're in for a treat! This lively summer celebration features a fantastic mix of family-friendly events, including live music on The Buttlands, a grand procession of floats through town, food and craft stalls, and exciting children’s competitions like a duck race, sandcastle building, and gillying. It’s a wonderful way to experience the vibrant community spirit of Wells-next-the-Sea while enjoying traditional seaside fun.

Beyond Wells-next-the-Sea, Holkham Hall is most certainly worth a visit. This magnificent 18th-century Palladian estate set within acres of deer park and rolling countryside, gives visitors the opportunity to enjoy walking trails, cycle paths, and boat hire, while adventure seekers can tackle the high ropes course. There are also plenty of options to stop for refreshment at The Courtyard Café which serves locally sourced food, or The Victoria, the estate’s restaurant that offers seasonal dishes in a cosy setting. 

The traditional seaside town of Hunstanton, locally known as "Hunston”, is just a half-hour drive away. Here, visitors can explore the Sea Life Centre, home to a fascinating array of marine life, or challenge themselves at Blackbeard's Adventure Golf.

When it’s time to relax, Wells-next-the-Sea boasts a fantastic selection of restaurants, cafés, and pubs to satisfy whatever craving you might have...

For fresh seafood, Wells Crab House serves seasonal dishes with an impressive wine list, while Platten’s Fish and Chips offers a classic takeaway experience with sustainably sourced seafood. Those looking for relaxed dining can visit Bang in Wells, a family-run bistro serving home-cooked meals made from local ingredients. The Golden Fleece provides a traditional pub atmosphere with a south-facing courtyard, perfect for enjoying classic British dishes. For a cosy meal, Ollies Restaurant serves hearty pub favourites, while Nelson’s Coffee Shop is an ideal stop for coffee and cake lovers. 

Further afield the Sculthorpe Mill, a stylish country pub set in a converted watermill with a spacious beer garden, offers the perfect spot to unwind with a seasonal dish and a drink. Alternatively, in Burnham Market, Socius serves up modern tapas with a sophisticated twist.

For even more recommendations, don’t forget to browse our Activity Guide to Norfolk.