North Norfolk is known for its stunning coastline and wildlife, but it is also home to some of the best gastropubs in the country.
From a Michelin-starred gem to award-winning establishments with sea views, check out this list of top-notch gastropubs.
1. The Gunton Arms
Where: The Gunton Arms, NR11 8TZ
The Gunton Arms is located in an extensive deer park near Cromer and its hearty menu includes beef and venison cooked over an open fire in its Elk Room.
It was named one of the top 50 gastropubs in the UK in the coveted Estrella Damm 2023 list.
2. The White Horse
Where: Main Road, Brancaster Staithe, PE31 8BY
With a backdrop of the marshland coastline of north Norfolk, diners can enjoy local produce and fresh seafood.
They have also reopened the outdoor Marshside Bar for the season, which started in 2020 in response to lockdown restrictions.
It was ranked 34th in the 2023 gastropubs list by Estrella Damm, the highest rating in Norfolk, and it boasts 15-ensuite bedrooms too.
3. The Duck Inn
Where: Burnham Road, Stanhoe, PE31 8QD
This multi-award-winning pub is run by Ben and Sarah Handley and chef Ben heavily utilises local produce in his seasonal menu.
It has been a finalist in The Observer's Food Monthly Awards for its popular Sunday Lunch and it is a regular in the UK top 50 gastropub list, ranking at 40th in 2023.
4. The Neptune
Where: 85 Old Hunstanton Road, Hunstanton, PE36 6HZ
The Neptune Inn Restaurant with Rooms in Hunstanton holds three coveted AA Rosettes and a Michelin Star.
Chef-owner Kevin Mangeolles uses the best seasonal produce that the county has to offer, including local fish, lobsters and game.
The menu includes lobster risotto, duck breast with red cabbage and dauphinoise potatoes and a loin of lamb.
READ MORE: Michelin Guide 2023: All the Norfolk restaurants awarded stars
5. The Red Lion
Where: Brook Street, Cromer, NR27 9HD
The Red Lion in Cromer was given its first AA rosette in February 2022 for its high-quality food, with the owners saying it was a "totally unexpected" accolade.
To gain one rosette, establishments must achieve standards that stand out in their local area using good quality ingredients prepared with care.
READ MORE: 7 of the best pubs by the coast in Norfolk
6. The Kings Head
Where: Holt Road, Letheringsett, NR25 7AR
The Kings Head was named the best pub in Norfolk at the National Pub and Bar Awards 2023.
It won the same prize back in 2021 and is part of the Anglian Country Inns group, which recently took home the Best Premium Food Offer UK gong at The Publican Awards.
READ MORE: 7 of the best Norfolk beer gardens to visit in 2023
7. The Orange Tree
Where: High Street, Thornham, PE36 6LY
Thornham has a fantastic range of restaurants and shops, but at its centre stands the award-winning Orange Tree.
The dining pub has 17 en-suite bedrooms, including seven in the luxurious Manor Lodge.
Alongside pub classics, there is a range of signature dishes and it boasts a well-sized beer garden for the summer.
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