Wells-next-the-Sea
Wells is a small fishing port situated on the North Norfolk coast approximately mid way between Hunstanton and Sheringham.
There is plenty to watch on the quayside: the fishing fleet return as the tide comes in, with their catch., often baskets of famous ‘Cromer’ crabs and now, more frequently, velvet swimming crabs which are shipped to Spain where they are a delicacy.
The fishing boats are joined by a wide variety of leisure craft, from sailing dinghies to powerful motor yachts, and by the famous Albatross, a Dutch barge which provides music, a bar and excellent Dutch pancakes!
Wells is almost unique in the variety of landscapes it has to offer. A long, unspoilt sandy beach, with its charming beach huts in all colours and shapes, runs along the coastline to the West of the town. Pine trees planted to stabilise the sand dunes have long since formed a mature pinewood along the landward side of the beach. A miniature steam train runs from near the quay past the pitch and putt course to the beach for those wanting to avoid the walk along the beach bank to the beach.
The East of the town is protected by Saltmarshes where the coastal path provides opportunity for long walks or the knowledgeable can pick Samphire in season, take a small boat out to explore the numerous creeks which filter through the marsh or find a secluded swimming spot.
The variety of landscapes attracts many species of birds and keen birdwatchers are within easy reach of famous reserves like Cley and Titchwell.
The Norfolk Coastal Path mentioned above, in fact runs from Hunstanton in the West to Cromer in the East and is just one of many local walks; there are many more through through the pinewoods and local farmland, some forming extended cycle tracks. The parkland of Holkham Hall, with its lake, woods, deer and Ice House is open to everyone to walk through where other attractions include the Bygones Exhibition, a pottery, café restaurants and gift shops.
The town itself has many charming lanes with traditional fishermen’s cottages, the Buttlands which is an elegant Georgian square with a spacious green area to relax in, and a bustling shopping street which caters for most needs. There are also a wide variety of good quality pubs and restaurants to choose from.
All of this makes Wells the ideal holiday centre.