Seaside Resorts & Fishing Villages
- Wells-next-the-Sea

Wells has been a seaport since before the 14th century primarily sending grain and malt to London and importing coal from the North-East. By the end of the 16th century 19 ships over 16 tons operated out of the town, making it the major port in the area. Its high point was in the 19th century when large wooden sailing vessels were built here. It was then that the stone quay was built. Also from early days Wells was a centre for manufacturing malt. At its height the town boasted up to 12 maltings, and in 1750 produced around a third of all malt exported from the country (mainly bound for Holland): more than any other port save Yarmouth. Today the harbourside granary with its overhanging gantry (built in 1904) has become one of Wells' most distinctive features.

In Victorian times Wells was one of North Norfolk's major ports capable of handling bulk cargoes such as coal and grain. As can be seen in this very old photo its quay heading could accommodate many large vessels.

Wells was not only a port but a centre for building and maintaining wooden vesseils.

The coming of the railway in 1857 reduced the harbour trade, nevertheless it continued to operate succesfully and even expanded its quayside buildings. In particular, in 1904 building commenced on the distinctive granary with its overhanging gantry.

Wells Railway Station

The railways brought a new source of trade: tourists.

The paddle steamer is clealy a pleasure craft but did it it seems to have had a dual function as a tow boat.

The paddle steamer is clearly doing its share of the heavy pulling along the channel which is around one mile in length,

The steamer was clearly a well known-feature in early 20th-century Wells.

Kids getting wet and mucky at the seaside is something that doesn't change. The steamer can just be veiwed in the background.

These smart young lads seem gainfully employed but are clearly posing for the photographer.

This is Staithe Street which became very popular with early 20th-century visitors

Looking inland along Staithe Street

The Parish Church of St. Nicholas on the edge of the town built in 1460 but destroyed by fire in 1879. The current church is almost entirely a Victorian re-construction.

Cars on the quay are a common sight today but somehow these are more picturesque.

Not only cars but also a bus.

The early paddle steamer has been replaced but at least one tall ship remains

A scene down by the beach which, despite the change in transport, still seems rather familiar.

Seaside Resorts & Fishing Villages - Wells-next-the-Sea

Seaside Resorts & Fishing Villages
- Wells-next-the-Sea