Have you discovered North Norfolk?
The North Norfolk coast is beautiful – you can see for miles across the sea and sand, and the sky feels bigger than anywhere you’ve ever been. Together with breath-taking countryside, there’s so much to see and do.
We are a family run business that’s been providing our local community and visitors with food, gifts and breaks away in Wells-next-the-Sea since the swinging 60’s, we’re well placed to offer our insight into everything this wonderful part of the country has to offer.
With this in mind, we asked our Platten’s team for their expert view on the best things to do in North Norfolk and here’s what they said:
Q. In your own words, why should people visit Wells-next-the-Sea?
Wells is a beautiful seaside town; and it has come a long way in the last ten years! There’s so much to see and do, no matter what age you are…
Dip your toes in the sea on our award-winning beaches, enjoy world class bird and seal watching at Blakeney Point, challenge the kids at Holkham Ropes and get crabbing. Don’t forget to grab your crabbing set – you can have it delivered to your table in our restaurant, order it to go with your fish and chips or visit our Shop with a View next door at 12 Quayside on the stunning salt marshes down by the picture postcard harbour.
What could be better after a fun day out than eating freshly cooked award-winning Platten’s fish and chips? Overlooking the bay before settling in for a relaxing night’s sleep (listening to the waves as you drift off…) in one of our luxury apartments of course.
Q. You’ve touched upon some beautiful tourist attractions in Wells, can you tell us a bit more about these and North Norfolk’s hidden gems?
There’s so many! Here’s just a few that spring to mind…
Wells beach really is beautiful! The vast, sweeping beach is dotted with colourful beach huts and the view over the marshes is glorious! Walk the dog, build a sandcastle or just kick back, relax and listen to the waves lapping against the shore. Our Shop with a View has a great range of beachside accessories for your day at the beach, including a castle bucket set and dog holiday set for your pooch!
East Hills is a wonderfully picturesque stretch of woodland filled with all kinds of amazing trees; sweet chestnut, English oak, silver birch, coppiced hazel and mature coppiced beech amongst others. You can access here on foot at low tide but be careful – make sure you know the tide times as the speed and current can catch you off guard. In the spring, there is a haze of blue when the bluebells rise and delicate wildflowers bloom.
Gun Hill is such a personal favourite for us all when it comes to North Norfolk’s hidden gems, especially on walks with our children. This large sand dune is now eroded and hollowed out by winds. Steeped in history, it was used as a temporary gun installation in the Napoleonic war and traces of World War II huts can also be found nearby. The beach here is secluded with gorgeous sand dunes and mesmerising views. The walk to the beach is a bit of a trek, but is an easy and flat walk along the raised bank. The little train has gone to a new home, but there will be an electric bus to and from the beach. Once on the beach, head for the dunes and climb through the Gun Hill gap and take in the view…
Built up an appetite? Head back into town and come see us! Here at Platten’s, we pride ourselves on using only the finest produce and serving up freshly cooked food that’s just the ticket after a walk on the beach.
Take a short drive along the coastal road to Holkham Park which surrounds the 18th century Holkham Hall and is a fascinating mixture of parkland, farmland and forestry, populated with wildlife and deer. Matt, our manager, is always telling us what a great place this is for walks with the kids! Take time to explore this 3000-acre sweeping parkland by foot or bike – there’s so many cycling and walking trails to choose from – or bring a blanket and relax by the lake with a picnic.
Leaving Holkham behind, head further along the coast road to Cley and Salthouse Marshes – holding the accolade of being Norfolk Wildlife Trust’s oldest and best-known nature reserve, this spectacular area provided the blueprint for nature conservation. As one of the country’s most popular birdwatching sites, the reserve attracts more than 110,000 visitors each year! Here you will find an award-winning visitor centre which features exhibitions, interactive interpretation, and a well-stocked gift and book shop. Adam, our Customer Service Assistant, is a big fan.
Kai, our Team Leader, is always telling us how unique Pensthorpe Nature Park is – another beautiful nature reserve on our doorstep! Here, you’ll find 700 acres of nature reserve and woodland, interspersed with interactive trails and eco play areas. Visit their website for more details where you will also find information on a range of events held throughout the year.
Q. Do you know of any upcoming Spring 2022 events in North Norfolk?
There’s quite a few that spring to mind! Now the country is properly opening again, festivals and shows are being planned and we can’t wait!
There’s a great mix to choose from, including:
Sheringham Viking Festival – 9 April
Come along to see a full Viking and Saxon camp with all sorts of different displays on. There will also be a combat display and as always, the event ends with a torch lit procession and the burning of a Viking boat!
This fun and family friendly folk festival is held annually on the pier at Cromer in Norfolk.
Norfolk & Norwich Festival 13-29 May
This flagship arts festival for the East of England puts together an amazing programme that spans music, theatre, literature, visual arts, circus, dance and free outdoor events.
North Norfolk Studios open 28 May – 5 June
Artists across the town will be displaying their creativity at North Norfolk Studios for the public to enjoy.
Sea Fever Literary Festival 2-5 June
This wonderful festival of poetry and prose celebrates its return to Wells-next-the-Sea, the theme this year is Doing Different? The festival is an opportunity to see and hear splendid speakers and meet others who share a passion for the English Language.
Q. Is Platten’s running any promotions or introducing any new menu items during February or March?
Yes!
Fancy winning a relaxing getaway in Wells? Try your luck in our monthly draw… we’re selling £2.50 raffle tickets that give you a chance to win a 3 night stay in one of our luxury apartments in November, January, February and March! You can find out more about our beautiful seaside escapes on our website.
Does your mum love fish and chips? Try our Mother’s Day Fizz and Chips for 2, for only £30!
We hope you’ve enjoyed learning more about North Norfolk and don’t forget to try the Platten’s experience of eat, shop and stay. Take a look at our Facebook and Instagram for up to date news on everything Platten’s!
