Norfolk is a hidden gem for foodies, with a thriving pub scene that offers a variety of delicious dishes for every taste. In this blog post, we'll be exploring the top-rated pubs in Norfolk as voted by Estrella Damm's 2023 Top 50 UK Gastro Pub Awards. From coastal towns to quiet countryside villages, these pubs are sure to tantalise your taste buds.
The Gunton Arms
The Gunton Arms is a unique pub located on a private estate near Cromer and its always the first place we take our friends when they come to stay. The pub features a stunning collection of contemporary art (included a whole room of Tracey Emin pieces) and taxidermy, creating an eclectic ambiance. The menu focuses on locally sourced meats, with the venison dishes being a must try (the deer comes from the Gunton Arms own estate that the pub sits on). In summer, the huge beer garden (which is surrounded by deer) comes alive and is a wonderful haven to relax and enjoy the beauty of Norfolk.
The White Horse, Brancaster Staithe
The White Horse is a stunning pub located in the picturesque coastal town of Brancaster Staithe. The menu features locally sourced ingredients and seasonal produce, with seafood dishes being absolutely stand out. The pub also boasts beautiful views of the nearby salt marshes, making it a perfect location for a relaxing meal (especially as the sun goes down in summer).
The Brisley Bell, Brisley
The Brisley Bell is a cozy pub located in the beautifully quaint village of Brisley. The menu is focused on modern British cuisine, with an emphasis on seasonal produce. If you're looking for a picture postcard perfect pub..this is the one for you!
The Duck Inn, Stanhoe
The Duck Inn is a charming pub located in the village of Stanhoe. The pub has a rustic feel, with exposed beams and a warm fireplace, creating a cozy atmosphere. The menu is focused on modern British cuisine, with an emphasis on local and sustainable produce. The desserts are particularly amazing and include an utterly delicious sticky toffee pudding.
Sculthorpe Mill, Fakenham
The Sculthorpe Mill is a charming pub located in the village of Sculthorpe near Fakenham, sitting right on the River Wensum. The menu features a mix of classic British dishes and modern twists, with an emphasis on locally sourced ingredients. We love it so much that it's actually the venue we chose for our lunch after our very intimate elopement wedding!! The pub also has a huge, beautiful beer garden and is perfect for a sunny day out.
The Suffield Arms, Thorpe Market
The Suffield Arms is a charming pub located in the village of Thorpe Market and is actually our local! It's the sister pub of The Gunton Arms although with a more laid back feel. When it comes to food, they put a beautiful twist on tapas in the main pub and focus on classic British dishes with locally sourced ingredients in the restaurant. Although incredibly remote, it's actually a 3 minute walk from Gunton Train Station so even accessible via public transport from Norwich or Cromer! The pub also has a beautiful, big beer garden at both the front and back. Perfect for long summers days.
Norfolk is a foodie's paradise, home to 6 of the UK's Top 50 Gastro Pubs; that's even more than Devon & Cornwall. Whether you're looking for a coastal escape or a countryside retreat, these top-rated pubs are sure to not just satisfy your appetite, but make you want to come back to Norfolk again and again. They certainly suckered us in, they're part of the many reasons we ended up moving here from London (and we couldn't be happier)!