The Blue Bell, Langham
The Barsham Arms, East Barsham What’s the story? Steeped in history - it once hosted Henry VIII - this village inn has had a total facelift and is cosy, comfortable and serves a cracking pint. Many of the original features have been kept, like the oak beams and open fireplace, while the smiley service and inspiring menu bring it bang up to date. Expect hearty classics with a twist like hot Walsingham pork scotch egg with home-made piccalilli or slow-roasted marmalade gammon, fried duck egg and beef dripping chips. Don’t miss Walk it off with a stroll around the picturesque village of East Barsham with its jawdropping Tudor manor house. 01328 820729 www.thebarshamarms.co.uk
What’s the story? The whitewashed Blue Bell, which reopened in February 2017 after a major overhaul, is your quintessential local pub. Prop up the wooden bar or settle in for a long lunch in the cheerful eating area. They do a great Sunday roast, and there’s a comprehensive kids menu, making it ideal for families. Don’t miss Monday is Curry Night (£10), Tuesday is Fish and Chips Night (2 portions for £15), Wednesday is Pie and Ale Night (£12) and Sunday is Wood-Fired Pizza Night. 01328 830630 www.langhambluebell.co.uk
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The inside track on what’s coming in 2018
Black Lion Hotel, Little Walsingham What’s the story? A thorough refurb seamlessly blends the old with the new at this historic hostelry, located on the medieval Friday Market Place in the heart of the village. The open brickwork, flagstone floors and wooden beams work well with quirky additions like the duck egg blue bar, curtains made from sackcloth and the tandem mounted on the wall. The ambience is convivial and food-wise, make sure you’re hungry - the dishes are hearty. The homemade chargrilled beef burger with bacon, cheddar cheese and fries is not for the fainthearted. Don’t miss The six rooms are understated and elegant - bedroom six is the largest and welcomes dogs, too. 01328 820235 www.blacklionhotelnorfolk.co.uk
The Gin Trap Inn in Ringstead promises an exciting year ahead. The former 17th-century coaching inn which offers an astonishing 120 different types of gin - will be closed for a few days in November for a repaint and refresh in time for Christmas. While in January, the refurb continues with an extension of the restaurant and the installation of a brand new bar, perfect for the two gin festivals they’re holding - one in June and one in September. 01485 525264 www.thegintrapinn.co.uk
The Burnham Market Brasserie What’s the story? The ever-popular Hoste has added another string to its bow - the Burnham Market Brasserie, a light, airy dining area set behind the main pub, which is open on Friday and Saturday evenings from 6pm until 9.15pm. Head chef Julian Falconer oversees the menu, which highlights local, seasonal produce from Brancaster lobster risotto and dressed Cromer crab to Great Ryburgh ribeye steak and fish in Woodforde’s beer batter. Don’t forget to leave room for pudding! Don’t miss On a warm evening, head outside to the pretty walled garden and catch up with friends over a chilled glass of wine. 01328 738777 www.burnhammarketbrasserie.com
Season in Wellsnext-the-Sea - popular for its fresh, seasonal cooking and stunning harbour views - embarks on an exciting refurb in November but Season fans will be pleased to hear that service will continue as much as possible. The downstairs dining area will be transformed into a relaxed brasserie, ideal for kicking back over a glass of wine and one of the signature sharing dishes. Upstairs will house a 70-seat restaurant for a more fine-dining experience; with award-winning chef Jeremy Parke at the helm, expect a mouth-watering à la carte menu including the freshest of seafood. A grand opening is scheduled for Spring 2018. 01328 807034 www.seasoninwells.co.uk
NORTH NORFOLK LIVING WINTER 2017
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