I’ll never forget the drive to Wells-next-the-Sea – what was meant to be a straightforward jaunt from Norwich turned into a proper comedy of errors. Sat-nav decided to play silly buggers halfway there, directing us down a narrow lane that dead-ended at a field full of bemused cows. There we were, me swearing under my breath (quietly, mind), my other half laughing so hard she nearly spilled her thermos of tea. We doubled back, hearts racing a bit, but by the time we spotted the sea glinting in the distance, the anticipation was bubbling up. Wells is one of those places you dream about – proper Norfolk seaside charm, and we couldn’t wait to see our spot right in the thick of it.

Pulling up to this superb luxury property felt like stumbling into a hidden gem. Tucked in the heart of town overlooking the iconic Buttlands, that leafy green square greeted us like an old mate, all sunny and inviting. We’d booked it for its private balcony with those cracking views – perfect for a morning cuppa watching the world go by. It’s a unique boutique retreat, two bedrooms and two bathrooms, just right for us and our mates who joined later. The large sunny garden, fully enclosed, screamed lazy afternoons with a GandT, and off-street parking for two cars? Bliss after our little road farce.

First impressions? Knockout. We tumbled in, bags everywhere from the car chaos, and immediately flopped onto the sofa, grinning like idiots. The place had this effortless elegance – light flooding in, everything spotless and welcoming. That balcony was the star; we cracked open a bottle of fizz right there, toasting the square below where kids were kicking a ball about and dog walkers ambled past. You could practically taste the sea air, and it was only a hop to the beach.

We didn’t waste time – a quick wander down to the quay, where the tide was out revealing that vast sandy expanse typical of these parts. Grabbed fish and chips from one of the huts, eaten on the harbour wall with gulls eyeing us cheekily. Back at the house, the garden became our haven; we lounged till dusk, chatting rubbish and reflecting on how I always pack too many jumpers for Norfolk’s fickle weather. (Note to self: lighten up, it’s a holiday!)

Evening brought gentle self-reflection as we cooked up a storm in the kitchen – nothing fancy, just pasta and local crab we’d snaffled from the market. Sat on the balcony under fairy lights (or was that just the sunset?), I thought about how these little getaways remind you life’s too short for sat-nav tantrums. Wells wrapped us up perfectly – close to Holkham’s dunes for a breezy walk the next day, but cosy in our urban seaside bolthole. That messy arrival? Best mishap ever; made the magic hit harder. If you’re after a proper Norfolk escape, this is your spot.