A Hophead’s Guide To Seven Superb Wells-next-the-Sea Pubs!

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A quaint town complete with spacious beaches. It’s no wonder we enjoy our weekends in Wells-next-the-Sea so much.

A proud part of Norfolk’s Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, Wells-next-the-Sea is part of the largest coastal nature reserve in England and Wales. With that the case there’s plenty of walks to enjoy on sunny days if you don’t want to laze around the beach. However if the weather turns you could always visit Holkham Hall or one of the many wonderful galleries. 

There’s no doubt this is a fantastic place to spend the weekend. But there’s another reason we love this town so much – the fine selection of pubs in Wells-next-the-Sea! 

Regardless of how you end up spending your time in Wells-next-the-Sea, if you’re like us then after a day of adventuring you’ll want some delicious food and a refreshing pint. 

As we know this place so well, we’ve decided to put together a list of what we believe are the best pubs in Wells-next-the-Sea. 
 
As you’ll see, there’s some amazing food, plenty of dog friendly places, and lots of opportunities to try the best local ale around.

So sit back and relax while we guide you through the best pubs in Wells-next-the-Sea! 

The Six Best Pubs In Wells-next-the-Sea For Beer, Food, Fun & Views!

1. The Golden Fleece

If you’re looking for a pub in Wells-next-the-Sea that’s perfect rain, shine or snow, then The Golden Fleece is hard to beat!

Through the summer you can bask in the sunshine taking advantage of their fantastic beer garden, and once the winter months kick in you can stay cosy inside by the fireplace.

As a family friendly and dog friendly pub, the atmosphere here is laid back. And as The Golden Fleece is located right next to the sea, this is the perfect place for a meal followed by a coastal walk to take in the stunning views.

Of course as you’ll often find in seaside towns, it makes sense to take advantage of your surroundings – which is exactly what The Golden Fleece have done when it comes to the seafood heavy menu.

Pan Fried Sea Bream and the Seafood Assiette are great choices for seafood lovers, however if that’s not for you there’s a great selection of burgers, steaks and curries too.

To compliment your meal there’s a variety of fine wines. Each is described well and even labelled to show which are vegan – an extra step the Golden Fleece have taken that not many establishments do.

If you’d prefer an ale with your meal then there are three hand pumps with rotating options, usually from Lacon’s, Barsham and Adnams breweries.

After your meal and a few drinks, you very well may scrap that plan for a walk…. we can’t blame you. After all you’re in a fine pub with a great atmosphere, why would you want to leave? 

Address: The Quay, Wells-next-the-Sea, NR23 1AH

2. The Globe Inn

If stylish dining with a great view is your thing, then we know the perfect place for you.

The Globe Inn is not only beautiful inside, but it overlooks a leafy Georgian Green so no matter which direction you look everything you see is pleasing to the eye. It’s a very photogenic place.

There are some great ales here from Adnams and Woodforde, but it’s the food that is the primary focus.

As The Globe Inn uses the best of local produce, the menu is subject to change depending on the season. The dishes are mainly British fare, but they’re truly spectacular. With that the case it’s well worth staying for three courses and we recommend getting a bottle from their impressive wine list to accompany your meal.  

As the dishes change depending on what ingredients are available we can’t guarantee what will be there where you visit. But in the past there’s been items like Venison Terrine as well as Buffalo Mozzarella to start, as well as mains like Spiced Weybourne Mackerel and classic Fish & Chips.

However the desserts tend to be the same throughout the year, and the Chocolate Orange Cake tends to be a knockout.

There are some great vegetarian and vegan options too, so everyone has a chance to experience the quality of food available here.

However one of our favourite things about The Globe Inn isn’t just the fact that dogs are allowed, but that they even have their own doggy menu filled with healthy treats and snacks! They can even wash it down with some specially made doggy drinks!  

With its laid-back atmosphere, incredible food, attention to detail and such great service, we cannot recommend The Globe Inn highly enough. It’s easily one of the best pubs in Wells-next-the-Sea.

Address: The Buttlands, Wells-next-the-Sea, NR23 1EU

3. The Crown

We’ve come across plenty of pubs called The Crown in the past, but this place may just take the *ahem* ‘crown’.

Comfy seating, friendly vibes, fireplace, books, good beer and food. All of that combined and you get The Crown in Wells-next-the-Sea!

Cleverly decorated with modern furnishings and a homely feel, it’s easy to forgot you’re in a pub, especially once you are settled on the sofa by the fire.

If you don’t fancy a drink by the fireplace, then order some food and sit at one of the tables that looks out onto the garden. Or during the summer why not sit outside on the decking and enjoy some fresh air and sunshine.

This is another location with a real focus on food, but as everything is made to order using the freshest of ingredients, there may be a slight wait for your meal to arrive. However we always find a refreshing pint or glass of wine from the bar will make that wait feel so much shorter!

As for what to try? Why not start with the Mussels in White Wine Sauce before moving onto the delicious Braised Pork or Roast Butternut & Rosemary Risotto. To finish things off, the warm Chocolate & Pecan Brownie is a delight. If you really fancy a challenge there’s the 20 oz New York Rib Steak – although we recommend sharing that one!  

It’s not just dinner and lunch served here though. You can opt for Afternoon Tea between 3pm and 5pm, whilst on Friday nights there’s the popular Fish ‘n Fizz.

This elegant looking, dog friendly pub with disabled access has great food and friendly vibes. It’s one of the pubs in Wells-next-the-Sea visitors seem to always return to.

Address: The Buttlands, Wells-next-the-Sea, NR23 1EX

4. The Bowling Green Inn

For those who enjoy some history, The Bowling Green Inn in Wells-next-the-Sea claims to be the oldest pub in town dating back to at least 1673!

Located on the edge of town, this is a traditional looking pub popular with locals and families, but all are welcome to come sample some of the best home cooked food around.

There’s a fantastic walled in beer garden for those warm summer days and when the weather turns you can settle by the fireplace to warm up.

In regards to ale choices, Greene King Abbot and Woodforde’s Wherry tends to be available, but if wine is more your thing there is a fine selection from around the world. 

From fish to full breakfasts, there’s plenty on the menu for everyone to enjoy here, and like most pubs in Wells-next-the-Sea, your dog is welcome too.  

Address: 26 Church Street, Wells-next-the-Sea, NR23 1JB

5. Edinburgh Inn

After exploring the shops on Staithe St, why not rest your legs on a comfortable sofa at the nearby Edinburgh Inn.

This is a rather popular pub in Wells-next-the-Sea thanks to the friendly staff and relaxed atmosphere here.

Should the sofas be full, don’t worry there is plenty more comfortable seating in this traditional looking pub. To retain that proper pub feel, the dining area is separated from the bar, while the food is actually made in the restaurant next door (Ollie’s).

If you come for food then you’ll get great pub grub, generous portions and all at very fair prices – exactly what you want from a good pub. Warm yourself up on a cold day with some Stew or Lasagne with chips, or how about one of their delicious burgers.

If you’re popping in for an ale then Woodforde’s Wherry is regularly served alongside two rotating ales. 

Dogs are welcome, the fire will be roaring on cold days and there’s a pub quiz on Tuesdays. We can’t think of a reason you shouldn’t visit this cosy, friendly and affordable pub.

Address: Station Road, Wells-next-the-Sea, NR23 1AE

6. The Three Horseshoes

While not in Wells-next-the-Sea, it’s well worth the couple of miles drive to Warham to visit the The Three Horseshoes.

The bar area has that honest, traditional look and is filled with character. But you may not spend much time there during the summer months as there is a spacious beer garden to enjoy where your dog can have a run around while you enjoy a refreshing pint. It’s one of the best beer gardens around.

Often on tap you’ll find Woodforde’s Wherry as it’s very popular in the area, along with three rotating taps giving other local brewers a chance to shine.

The food available resembles the pub it’s in – traditional and honest. Of the starters available we thought the Pan Fried Pigeon Breast and Mushroom Risotto were two standout options. For a filling main you can’t go wrong with their Sausages & Mash, Beer Battered Fish & Chips or the burgers they serve.

For wine fans, there is an impressive wine menu that’s well laid out and has clear descriptions to help you pick something new to try.

There’s occasionally live music and quiz nights here too, so be sure to check their Facebook page in advance to see if there’s anything on when you’re visiting the area.

Address: The Street, Warham All Saints, NR23 1NL