The Lifeboat Horse

A life-sized bronze horse stands in Wells-next-the-Sea, cast in tribute to a real animal that pulled the lifeboat carriage to the water during the 19th century. You'll find it dotted about town - it's not a traditional gallery space but rather a sculptural piece that tells a proper story about maritime rescue and animal labour. The horse was integral to launching the lifeboat in emergencies, dragging the heavy wooden boat across the shingle to the sea when lives depended on speed. Locals and visitors alike have rubbed the bronze smooth over the years, which says something about how much affection this tribute has earned.

It's a quick stop rather than a destination that eats hours, but it works brilliantly as part of a wander through Wells itself. The surrounding town has decent independent shops, a working harbour, and good fish and chips if you're peckish. History buffs will get the most from understanding what it represented - the unglamorous backbone of rescue operations before engines took over.

Free to view, naturally. Allow ten minutes to find it and take a photo, longer if you're the type to sit on a bench nearby and absorb the atmosphere. If you're staying at Pinewoods Holiday Park or The Norfolk Brickyard - both excellent spots within a couple of miles - it's worth including in a coastal morning. Visit on a quieter weekday if you can; summer weekends bring crowds to Wells, and you'll want the peace to properly appreciate why this horse mattered.