Looking for the ultimate seaside escape? Look no further than Wells-next-the-Sea, a charming coastal town located on the north coast of Norfolk. With its beautiful beaches, colourful beach huts, and a bustling harbour, Wells-next-the-Sea is a brilliant place to visit as a day trip.
The town's picturesque harbour is a hive of activity, with fishing boats coming and going and crabbing off the quay being a popular pastime for visitors of all ages. Take a stroll along the quayside and soak up the bustling atmosphere, or sit and watch the boats while enjoying some fish and chips from one of the local seafood shacks.
For beach lovers, Wells-next-the-Sea boasts one of the most beautiful beaches in Norfolk. With its fine white sand, dunes, and colourful beach huts, it's the perfect place to relax and enjoy the stunning coastal views. And if you're feeling adventurous, take a walk along the beach to Holkham Bay, a vast expanse of sand and sea that's been voted one of the best beaches in the UK.
The town is also home to several independent shops, selling everything from local seafood to handmade crafts. And for history buffs, the town has a fascinating past, which is showcased at the Wells Maltings, a cultural hub that tells the story of the town and its people.
Finally, no visit to Wells-next-the-Sea would be complete without trying some of the local seafood. From fish and chips to fresh crab sandwiches, the town's seafood is some of the best in Norfolk. And with a range of restaurants and cafes to choose from, you'll be spoilt for choice.
If you're feeling adventurous and love walking in nature, our recommendation would be to start your day at either Morston or Stiffkey (which is slightly closer) and walk along the North Norfolk Coast path to Wells-next-the-Sea so you can take in the breathtaking beauty of the coast before exploring this vibrant coastal village. We tend to park at Morston Quay (which is free parking if you're a National Trust member and also where the seal trip to Blakeney Point run from) and walk the 7 miles to Wells-next-the-Sea. The walk gives you views of Blakeney Point (you can actually see the seals lining the beach from afar), the beautiful salt marshes and stunning waterways that meander into the quay at Wells-next-the-Sea. It's the most stunning walk.
We then tend to grab a coffee and rest our feet at Well Deli which is right on the quay. Then meander around the quaint, narrow streets of Wells-next-the-Sea and explore all of the local independent shops before heading to The Golden Fleece which is the most gorgeous pub (again right on the quayside) and serves delicious food, including seafood right from the quay. If you don't fancy the walk back after, you can always get the bus!
No matter how you do it though, Wells-next-the-Sea is a brilliant place to visit as a day trip. With its beautiful beaches, bustling harbour, and independent shops, there really is something for everyone.