Wells Maltings
A vibrant community hub in Wells-next-the-Sea, hosting art, crafts, history, and events with a popular cafe.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
See local art and crafts
Wells Maltings
Best Time
See local art and crafts
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A vibrant community hub in Wells-next-the-Sea, hosting art, crafts, history, and events with a popular cafe.
"A wonderful place with exhibitions, a great cafe, and friendly staff, though food hygiene needs attention."
🎯 Check Event Schedule
Don't miss out! See what's on before you go. :calendar:
☕ Enjoy the Cafe
Popular spot for cakes and coffee, reasonably priced. :coffee:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Art & Craft Exhibitions
Upstairs galleries
Discover local talent with diverse art and craft fairs, featuring everything from paintings to handmade crafts.
+2
Community Hub & Cafe
Ground floor
A vibrant meeting point with a popular cafe offering delicious cakes and reasonable prices.
Local History Displays
Upstairs
Explore exhibits on Wells' rich history, focusing on fishing, shipping, and its inhabitants.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Check the Event Calendar
+1Food Hygiene Concerns
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Check Event Schedule
Don't miss out! See what's on before you go.
☕ Enjoy the Cafe
Popular spot for cakes and coffee, reasonably priced. :coffee:
🖼️ Support Local Artists
Buy unique art and crafts directly from creators.
ℹ️ Tourist Info Available
Friendly staff can help plan your visit. :information_desk:
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Check Event Schedule
Don't miss out! See what's on before you go.
☕ Enjoy the Cafe
Popular spot for cakes and coffee, reasonably priced. :coffee:
🖼️ Support Local Artists
Buy unique art and crafts directly from creators.
ℹ️ Tourist Info Available
Friendly staff can help plan your visit. :information_desk:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Wells Maltings is a versatile community hub praised for its friendly staff, diverse events, and popular cafe. Visitors enjoy the art exhibitions and historical displays. However, one significant concern was raised regarding food hygiene practices in the cafe.
"We visited the Maltings often during the first weekend of carnival week. 1st 2nd and 3rd August 2025. The staff are very friendly, helpful and efficient. Its great to have an information desk.
We visited health and wellness event and the stall holders were brilliant 👏 I had a Rheiki treatment 😀 with
Lorraine of Healing hands which was brilliant.
Becky Lawless who was working with Jo on tropics stand gave hand scrubs and facials with beautiful tropic products and it was beautiful.
My brother and I also enjoyed reflexology treatments a truly magical experience.
On Sunday we visited the arts and crafts exhibition and made some purchases which was ran by volunteers.
There is a huge event calender displayed for the whole week of carnival which is really helpful. It should be the first place to visit to plan your week.
The cafe is popular and very reasonable priced.
The toilets are well managed and kept spotlessly clean."
Sue Parker-Roberts
"OK, gave them a chance
Emailed after speaking to the manager but no response
Busy so service so so but fine
However, "chef" scratching beard, opening door by shared handle and then handling part washed salad of dubious quality onto plates with mo hand washing or gloves. Lots of contact with shared services and no idea of food hygiene behind the door.
Cutlery grabbed by the food end by staff when laying up gge table
Actual food etc good.
But if looking for food hygiene, domestic rather than commercial standard and won't be going back"
Bob Booth
"Lovely light spacious place with exhibitions on history of Wells' inhabitants from French conquest. Shows important kinds of employment with much fishing and shipping. More interest upstairs. Tourist information in same building with friendly, helpful staff. Attractive cards and postcards on sale. Very nice tearoom and bar there too offering delicious cakes."
Josie Dainton
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Wells Maltings is accessible via public transport from Norwich. You can take a bus service, which is a popular option for those without a car. The journey typically involves a bus route that connects Norwich to Wells-next-the-Sea.
While specific parking details aren't extensively covered, Wells-next-the-Sea generally has parking facilities. It's advisable to check local council websites or parking apps for the most up-to-date information on car parks near Staithe Street, where Wells Maltings is located.
If you are already in Wells-next-the-Sea, Wells Maltings is conveniently located on Staithe Street, a short walk from the harbour and town center.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Entry to the Art Fair at Wells Maltings is free, making it an accessible way to enjoy local art.
Tickets for specific events, such as comedy shows or music performances, can usually be purchased through the Wells Maltings website. For example, tickets for 'Floyd in the Flesh' were available via their website.
Opening hours can vary depending on events and exhibitions. The Art Fair, for instance, runs from 11 am to 4:30 pm on Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays. It's best to check the Wells Maltings website for specific daily hours.
For ticketed events, booking in advance is generally recommended, especially for popular performances or during peak seasons like Carnival Week.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, Wells Maltings has a cafe that is popular and reasonably priced, offering delicious cakes.
The cafe offers cakes and other refreshments. While specific menus aren't detailed, it's a good spot for a coffee and a treat.
One review raised concerns about food hygiene practices, noting issues with staff handling food and a lack of gloves. While the food itself was described as good, this is something to be aware of.
During events like the carnival week, the cafe is a popular spot. Some events might also have specific food offerings, like the 'Curry Night' mentioned.
📸 📸 Photography
Photography policies can vary by exhibition or event. Generally, for art exhibitions, it's best to check for signage or ask staff. Personal photos of the venue and its surroundings are usually fine.
Staithe Street, leading to the harbour, is described as a pretty street with quaint cottages, boutique shops, and the Maltings itself, making it picturesque for photos.
For art and craft exhibitions, it's polite to ask the artist or stallholder before taking photos of their work, especially if you intend to share them online.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
+1 The venue also hosts community events that might be family-friendly, so checking the event calendar is key. While the cafe offers a nice break with cakes, be mindful of the reported food hygiene concerns if you have very young children. The nearby play area and walks in Wells-next-the-Sea are also excellent additions for a family day out.
🎨 Art Enthusiasts
+2Many visitors appreciate the opportunity to buy affordable art directly from the creators, making it a fantastic place to find unique pieces. The heritage displays also offer a cultural context that can enrich your appreciation of the local art scene.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Events and Exhibitions at Wells Maltings
+2Beyond visual arts, the Maltings also hosts live performances, including comedy nights and music gigs. The venue is known for its community events, such as the popular Carnival Week, which features a packed calendar of activities for all ages. The Maltings Matters podcast even highlights upcoming events, demonstrating its commitment to keeping the community informed.
+1For those interested in local heritage, Wells Maltings often features exhibitions on the history of Wells-next-the-Sea, delving into its maritime past and the lives of its inhabitants. These displays offer a fascinating glimpse into the town's rich cultural tapestry.
The Cafe and Dining Experience
However, it's important to note that one review highlighted significant food hygiene concerns. The reviewer observed staff handling food without gloves and noted a lack of handwashing. While the food quality itself was deemed good, these observations suggest a potential issue with commercial food hygiene standards.
Despite this, the cafe remains a convenient and pleasant place to grab a coffee or a treat, especially when visiting exhibitions or attending events. It's also a central point for tourist information, with friendly staff ready to assist.
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from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit