Why Wells-next-the-Sea is easy to fall in love with

It was recently even named among the best seaside towns in the UK.

Here are five reasons why we think the north Norfolk town is so loved.

1. A beach that feels endless

Wells-next-the-Sea beach (Image: Ian Burt)

Wells’ beach is a huge sweep of soft, golden sand, backed by pinewoods and a famous line of colourful stilted beach huts, regularly described as one of the best in north Norfolk.

At low tide, the sand seems to run on for miles, with big skies and shallow channels that make it feel wonderfully open and wild.

The long beach often blends into the much-acclaimed Holkham beach, one that is loved by the royal family.

2. A working harbour with real character

A view along the East Quay at Wells (Image: Chris Bishop)

Rather than a stage‑set resort, Wells remains a working fishing port, its quay busy with crab and whelk boats, sailing craft and families crabbing from the harbour wall.

On a calm day, the boats reflected in the water, or resting on the sand when the tide drops, give the place a quiet, lived‑in charm.

3. Pretty streets and Georgian good looks

Staithe Street in Wells-next-the-Sea (Image: Chris Bishop)

Behind the quay, you find a small town of leafy Georgian squares, pastel facades and old merchants’ houses, a legacy of the days when Wells was a nationally important malt port.

Independent shops, galleries and cafés along Staithe Street add to the feeling that this is a place with its own character rather than a clone‑town high street.

4. Nature on the doorstep

A hoopoe photographed in Wells, North Norfolk by Brad Damms. Picture: Brad Damms (Image: Brad Damms)

Wells sits within the Norfolk Coast Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty and is part of one of the largest coastal nature reserves in England and Wales.

It is rich in marshes and birdlife, with the surrounding coast path, salt marsh and nearby Holkham National Nature Reserve making it a natural draw for walkers, birdwatchers and anyone who just likes big skies and wild edges.

5. Dining

Scott Dougal with a seafood platter outside Wells Crab House, which he runs with his wife Kelly (Image: Newsquest)

From fish and chips to finer dining, there is something for everyone's taste buds in Wells.

Wells Crabhouse in Freeman Street serves local and seasonal seafood dishes, with seafood platters being a popular choice.

Meanwhile, Platten's Fish & Chips in Quayside offers a picturesque backdrop for a hearty meal.