Rural Retreats was founded in 1985 with the aim of making the countryside more accessible for holidaymakers and giving them the best possible choice of holiday homes across the UK. Rural Retreats’ continuing success is based on excellent local knowledge and painstaking research, together with a flair for finding delightful and unusual properties. All of this has enabled us to build a portfolio of over 450 exceptionally fine holiday homes in stunningly beautiful locations, all available for you to rent. When you are looking for your own perfect holiday home, our experienced and helpful staff can help to point you to the property of your dreams. Whatever you want to ask about any of our properties, there will be someone on our staff who knows the cottage or apartment at first hand.

Originally built by a prominent local wheat merchant suspected of being a smuggler, The Normans in Wells-next-the-Sea, is a magnificent three-storey hideaway. With incredible far-reaching views across Stiffkey marshes and the pinewoods at Holkham, this property is located a mere two-minute walk from the Wells harbour.

Information correct at time of writing. Wells-next-the-Sea is a hub for North Norfolk coastal activities. From the picturesque harbour, where gilling for crabs is a must, you can walk, drive or catch the beach bus to the spectacular beach with its famous array of colourful beach huts and pine forest. Stop at the Beach Cafe afterwards for a drink and snack. At low tide see if you can spot the famous Lifeboat Horse sculpture standing proud in the mud near quay. Amble along Staithe Street, the bustling high street, with a flurry of independent shops, lovely tearooms, great gastro pubs, independent restaurants and The Wells Maltings, North Norfolk’s Landmark Cultural Centre with exciting events all year round. Start your day with a delicious coffee from Bang or Will's of Wells. If you love local seafood then booking a table at Wells Crab House is must. Reward yourself after an active day with some of the best fish and chips in the area at French's, followed by dessert from Swirl ice-cream parlour. Wells features a pretty, leafy green peaceful square, The Buttlands, which is surrounded by fine Georgian buildings and a lovely pub; The Globe. Catch the Coasthopper and enjoy exploring picturesque neighbouring villages such as The Burnhams. Hire a bike from the quayside and spend the day exploring the estate and local coastal paths. Breath-taking Holkham Hall and expansive Holkham beach can be found just a short journey down road. This stretch of beautiful coastline is a bucket-list destination for birders and walkers all year round.