Offering magnificent views across the tidal creeks and marshes
The Old Custom House, built in 1560, is situated on Wells’ picturesque East Quay, just a few minutes walk from the centre of town. The water is literally a few steps away when the tide is in and the North Norfolk coast path runs past the front gate.
It has been our family home for 40 years and we have been welcoming bed & breakfast guests to stay with us in this wonderful place since 1997.
The guest rooms are equipped with TV, Wi-Fi, and tea & coffee making facilities.
Bed & Breakfast
The Four Poster double en-suite room on the first floor of the Old Custom House offers a suite of rooms for double or single occupancy.
Breakfasts are cooked to order, using local seasonal produce whenever possible, and are served in the 16th century panelled dining room.
Self Catering in the Queen’s Warehouse
The Queen’s Warehouse ground floor, twin room has been re-equipped to include a modern kitchen and is now offered as a self-catering suite.
The Queen’s Warehouse studio apartment has its own front door and offers self-contained privacy for one or two guests who will be able to prepare all of their own meals using the excellent local shops for fresh produce. You will find more details under Queen’s Warehouse.
Custom House History
The Old Custom House in Wells was built in 1560. Custom houses in England were crucial for collecting customs duties on imported and exported goods, a significant government revenue source.
Located in major ports, they facilitated the inspection and regulation of goods, preventing smuggling and ensuring compliance with trade laws. Custom officers assessed duties, issued necessary trade documentation and enforced embargoes and trade restrictions.
Some custom houses also offered bonded storage for goods until duties were paid. These functions were vital for maintaining lawful and orderly trade, supporting the country’s economic infrastructure and funding public expenses.
