Norfolk Coast Pubs & Restaurants Guide 2022
The Independent Guide to the Best Pubs, Gastro-Pubs and Restaurants on the Norfolk Coast.
Updated for 2022 all the top places to eat-out and enjoy the best food on the North Norfolk coast. We have incorporated recent diners’ “comments” as a useful guide and also tried to give you a steer regarding food and atmosphere. The best recommendation we can give is to book early!
★★★- Good
★★★★ – Very Good
★★★★★ – The Best You’ll Find
🏆 Recent Award Winner
👍 Recommended
M: Michelin Guide Listed
Rose and Crown 
M
Snettisham, Hunstanton PE31 7LX
Recently The Good Food Guide’s UK Dining Pub of the Year. Still holds true to its long history as a coaching Inn with a traditional pub feel and warm hospitality. ‘Delicious food with a local slant’ and busy with a happy mix of locals and visitors offering pub meals and a restaurant menu with specials changing daily. Substantial garden with play area. For long-term dedication and unwavering support and love for their pub, their staff and their community, owners Jeanette and Anthony Goodrich are the Good Pub Guide 'Licensees of the Year 2021'.
The Old Bank Restaurant M
10 Lynn Road Snettisham PE31 7LP
Aga and Lewis have created a reputation a great deal larger than their 20 cover restaurant. A passion for fresh, modern and imaginative’ food, using the very best local ingredients led to being named the Best Local Restaurant in Britain 2020 by the Good Food Guide and a listing in the 2022 Michelin Guide. Closed Monday & Tuesdays. The menu consists of either a 'long' or 'short' taster menu. Books weeks ahead. There newest venture 'The Old Store' Artisan bakery and bistro has opened next door in early 2022.
The Gin Trap
Ringstead, Hunstanton PE36 5JU
With over 100 gins from around the world, The Gin Trap certainly lives up to its name. Complimented by a tasty menu this is a great lunch option. For the past couple of years under the stewardship of David Lamyman and has moved forward with a fresh new menu and look including a great new outdoor garden. Rumours of a new dining experience in the wings,, watch this space.
The King William
Sedgeford, Hunstanton PE36 5LU
This village pub has a well-deserved reputation for good food and packs them in all year round. The King Willy's local loyal following adds to the atmosphere. Regularly changing specials board. Under new ownership in 2022, no major changes in format yet but recent reports indicate it may be on the slide.
The Neptune M
Old Hunstanton PE36 6HZ
This unpretentious restaurant run by Kevin and Jacki Mangeolles has a much deserved Michelin star and delights ‘foodies’ all year round. Dishes are subtle with delicious combinations (think beetroot tart, lobster ceviche, loin of veal, tonka bean pannacotta). You will need deep pockets but will be talking fondly about the Neptune for a long time to come. Taster menu available. Advance booking is essential!
Sally's Shack Fish and Chips
Seagate Rd, Hunstanton PE36 5BD
Don't Judge a book by it's cover! This is where the locals go for great fish and chips. A small family run business, with over 30+ years experience and with Sally and Sadie at the helm. For F&C lovers an absolute must and worth a detour. 12-2pm and 4-8pm. Closes at 6 on Sunday and all day Tuesday.
Old Town Beach Cafe
50 Sea Lane, Old Hunstanton PE36 6JN
A walk along the beach at Old Hunstanton is not complete without dropping into the Old Town Beach Cafe opposite the lifeboat station. Indeed in former times this was the Lifeboat station but for the last 100 years or so a great little beach cafe. Offering a mouth wateringly tempting menu from bacon butties to beef bourguignon or you can just pop in for a frothy, milky coffee, scone or brownie! A particular emphasis on tasty vegan and gluten free offerings. Pet-Friendly.
The Lodge
Old Hunstanton PE36 6HX
Upmarket bar with atmosphere and a good menu. This is where you go for that International final with a big screen and a really convivial crowd. Short walk to Old Hunstanton beach is another plus.
The Duck Inn
Stanhoe Burnham Market PE31 8QD
For many years the go to gastro-pub with it’s imaginative food receiving loads of accolades. Certainly ‘more restaurant than pub in its style’ but still deserves a place on your short list despite a fair few fresh recent openings. Very popular in Summer 2021 with a good menu and well spaced tables. Praised by Giles Coren in his Sunday Times column for great food and service. Booking essential
Thornham Deli
High St, Thornham PE36 6LX
The name is deceptive as this is really a very popular eatery with fab breakfasts and delicious lunches and afternoon teas. Always busy and complimented by a great deli and lifestyle shop. Eat outside in the summer in this bustling, vibrant venue with a strong local following.
Lifeboat Inn
Thornham Hunstanton PE36 6LT
A Norfolk institution, packed with character and local characters. A good bet for a lunch by the coast. Worth a detour if you are are spending an hour or two doing Anna's Walk.
The Orange Tree
Thornham Hunstanton PE36 6LY
Pub with a strong reputation for food and very popular with visitors to this part of the world. Menu often draws its inspiration from Asian and even fairground themes. Inside dining returned in the autumn of 2021.
Erics Wood-Fired Pizza
Drove Orchards Thornham Hunstanton PE36 6LS
A fresh new opening at Drove Orchards in 2020 was Eric's Pizza in the Yurt which has also had a facelift. Upscale pizzas and and anti pasti boards that could include Dingley-Dell charcuterie, Italian burrata and anchovies as well as salads.
Chequers Inn M
Thornham Hunstanton PE36 6LY
Relaunched as a more upmarket dining destination just pre-CV19. Menu relies heavily on local ingredients especially seafood but complemented by a choice for meat-eaters of flame-grilled options. Staff friendly and eager to please. Dates back to the 16th century as an inn and still has that cosy pub feel. Closed Monday and Tuesday.
Erics Fish and Chips
Thornham Hunstanton PE36 6LS & Holt, NR25 6BD
The poshest fish and chips on this part of the coast. Candle-lit canteen style restaurant with great fish and chips although some grumbles about 'festival prices'. The black garlic mayonnaise is amazing. No bookings and so fiercely busy but fun during peak periods.
East Coast Gelato Ice Cream Parlour
Drove Orchards, Thornham, Hunstanton PE36 6LS
East Coast Gelato, award-winning Norfolk gelato maker, opened this traditional Ice cream parlour at the beginning of August 2020. Using only the best ingredients to prepare and present amazing authentic Italian Gelato. Flavours on offer include passion fruit ripple, lemon meringue pie, bubblegum, carrot cake, coconut and strawberry - made from Sharrington strawberries. There are also cakes, special desserts and fudge!
Titchwell Manor M
Titchwell, Hunstanton PE31 8BB
Emphasis on seafood with a menu that prides itself on being that bit different. Choose between the more formal 'Conservatory' restaurant and more relaxed 'Eating rooms' . You will also find sisters restaurants Eric's Pizza and Eric's Fish and Chips are just down the road.
Jolly Sailors
Brancaster Staithe Hunstanton PE31 8BJ
A real Norfolk institution and offers everything from delicious hot-from-the-oven pizzas to local Brancaster mussels. Has a Ramsay heading up the kitchen but fortunately not Gordon! Draws a substantial crowd to its large garden on a fine summer days and a fair few muddy dogs. Sadly the popular walk-in only for dining tables was lost during Covid and as yet hasn't returned.
White Horse
Brancaster Staithe Hunstanton PE31 8BY
A firm favourite with a lovely conservatory restaurant, sun deck terrace and adjoining dining area with spectacular sea views over Brancaster and Scolt head Island. Great seafood with also good bar choices including a delicious tapas menu. Good for lunch or dinner and perfect for an early evening drink at sunset. For diners early booking is advisable.
Socius M
Burnham Market Norfolk PE31 8LG
The atmosphere at this award-winning establishment is very metropolitan. The friendly team behind this venture have personality and an enthusiasm for good food. They have created an interesting menu which can be enjoyed tapas style or through the traditional three of four courses well presented dishes especially the Sticky King Prawns and the salmon with fennel. The 'absolute go-to' restaurant in Burnham Market. Early booking essential. Don't take a jacket if you want to hang it on your chair.
The Hoste Inn
Burnham Market Norfolk PE31 8HD
The Grand-Daddy of them all and the biggest dining room on this part of the Norfolk coast. Changed hands a few years ago and much has changed but now under new ownership once again as part of the City Pub Group. 2022 guests comments suggest it may be on the slide but still visitors may enjoy a friendlier experience than other places around the green.
Acre at the White House
Burnham Market Norfolk PE31 8JY
Burnham Market’s newest restaurant, opened in 2021 is part of the White House which is a beautiful property in parklands just a few minutes drive from the village. Enjoy a delicious candlelit dinner on some weekends in this small intimate restaurant with friendly and efficient service. Menu is simple, classic and seasonal with lots to tempt. Selection of good wines all served with a smile. Call for available tables.
The Hero
Burnham Overy Staithe, Burnham Market PE31 8JE
The Hero is a place we are very fond of and now with new landlords since 2020.. Lovely atmosphere with lots of bustle but many think that the 2022 menu choices are a little 'underwhelming'. Outside tables in the summer can be busy in this lovely marine town with pretty harbour.
The Nelson
Burnham Thorpe, Burnham Market King's Lynn PE31 8HL
'Welcome Back' to this Norfolk stalwart that has re-opened in June 2021 after a £1m refurbishment. The pub which has the strongest connections to Nelson, a former resident of this pretty Norfolk village closed in 2016. Now re-opening as a Woodfordes brewery pub it has been extended with a complete make-over to all aspects of the building and a substantial extension. Mixed reviews on the food offering and may still be finding its feet. Whether the infamous pub tipple 'Nelson's Blood' returns remains to be seen.
The Carpenters Arms
57 High St, Wighton, Wells-next-the-Sea NR23 1PF
Andy & Izzy have brought a new influence to this popular pub with a happy mix of locals and visitors. . Perch on a Massey Ferguson tractor seat while you peruse a menu that caters to most tastes, from a chicken tikka to halibut with celeriac. The prices will make you feel that you are not quite so close to the Norfolk coast.
The Victoria
Holkham Wells-next-sea NR23 1RG
Once again being run as part of the Holkham Hall Estate and just a few steps from the beautiful beach at Holkham Bay which makes it a popular choice for a spot of lunch in the large gardens. An imaginative menu which breaks away from the fish & chips/burger/ribs/curry formula that sadly dominates so many of it's rivals offerings down the coast. Local ingredients include seafood and meat from the estate. Food metres rather than miles! Very large garden and gets very busy in the summer.
Wells Crab House
Wells-next-the-Sea NR23 1BA
Spanking fresh fish, newly lifted from the nearby harbour, and those little personal touches that matter are just a couple of the reasons Kelly and Scott Dougal won the Food Awards Best Seafood Restaurant in England 2022. Expect to find everything from lobster and crab to scallops, mackerel & skate – whatever they can get from local fishermen. The restaurant is just a stone throw from the quay at Well so makes a great lunchtime choice with the beach also a short stroll away.
French's Fish and Chips
10 The Quay, Wells-Next- Sea NR23 1AH
Midday to 10.30pm All summer. Remember how Fish & Chips used to taste when you were a child? They still do at French's award-winning chippy who have been frying away since 1923. Get them wrapped and then a couple of minutes drive up to by the beach to eat them amongst the brightly painted huts at sunset - perfect!
The Pigs
Norwich Rd, Edgefield, Melton Constable NR24 2RL
You will have little doubt that you have arrived at the Pigs. A decidedly 'porky' theme runs through the decor and the menu at this cracking country pub, There are local real ales on draught, quiz nights, all sorts of traditional pub games and good honest food with a strong Norfolk accent. Meat is from ethically sound Norfolk farms and butchers, game comes from local shoots and fresh fish is delivered direct from the coast. The result is a gutsy menu that spans everything from beef dripping and toast to allotment fruit crumble with clotted cream.
Meadowsweet M
37 Norwich Road Holt Norfolk NR25 6SA
Many years ago as Yetmans this was one of the counties favourite restaurants. Back once again as a restaurant but now Meadowseet with ex-Morston chef Greg Anderson and Rebecca Williams at the helm. Rave reviews throughout 2021 and tables still book out months ahead. Fresh taster menu changes regularly and is a culinary treat. Opens Wednesday through to Saturday
Byfords Cafe
Holt Market Square NR25 6BG
This is where, the Wilson family started literally living above the shop - an upmarket deli with a real emphasis on delicious home-made food. Today they have establishments dotted all around the county. One of the original Norfolk cafés and is still something of a local institution. Very popular lunchtime venue especially when shopping in Holt but booking is absolutely essential at weekends if you don't want to wait forever.
Wiveton Cafe
Wiveton, Holt NR25 7TE
Described by Delia Smith as her favourite place to lunch and also gained popularity though the 'Normal for Norfolk' TV series. Focus is on wholesome food with a changing seasonal lunch menu. Popular with families due to the expansive gardens with a Giant Maize in the summer. Historical Tour with Desmond MacCarthy available throughout the summer.
The Moorings
High Street, Blakeney NR25 7NA
This lovely family-run restaurant prides itself on delivering fresh simple honest food - "fantastic local fish", shellfish, game in season, delicious meat and vegetarian dishes, dreamy puddings, and a well chosen wine list. A Strong local following ensures that booking is essential especially at weekends. Hibernates in winter so back in February 2022.
Rocky Bottoms
Cromer Rd, West Runton, Cromer NR27 9QA
Rocky Bottoms is a delightfully quirky restaurant, complete with crab hut lovingly restored by a local fishing family. Great views and many outside tables. You will find everything from Brancaster oysters, mussels, popcorn cockles, lobster, crab, fish and chips and surf and turf. They also have a deli style shop that does great hampers. Walk ins only.
Morston Hall M
The Street, Morston, Holt NR25 7AA
Culinary accolades including a long-standing and well-deserved Michelin star abound for this country house restaurant directly on the coast . Proprietor Galton Blackiston pops up on the telly from time-to-time. Large conservatory dining rooms, cosy lounges overlook well-tended lawns. Top notch cooking which comprises a seven-course taster menu (dietary requirements are accommodated) served at 8pm daily.
Anchor Inn
The Street, Morston NR25 7AA
Friendly local pub which is a great place to know if you are visiting the seals. Strong local following and a down to earth menu that looks very much to the sea which is not very far away! Local beers on tap and really traditional ambience. an outside garden.
Dun Cow
Salthouse, Holt NR25 7XA
Upbeat and welcoming pub with uninterrupted views over the salt marshes, the Dun Cow holds an impressive position on the North Norfolk Coast. The menu is bold with bags of freshness and flavour. In winter the wood burner gives a lovely cosy ambiance and the staff are friendly and attentive.
Cookie's Crab Shed
Salthouse Holt NR25 7AJ
Stephen Fry described this part of our coast, and Cookie's in particular as his favourite place in the British Isles. A bit of a shame as some think it may have become a victim of its own success. Still worth a stop if you are in the area. Open 9-7, Thurs-Mon for most of the year. Great fresh seafood including salads, sandwiches plus hot+cold drinks (It's a BYO for beer/wine) - all to take away or eat inside what is practically a shed or the garden overlooking the salt marshes. Do reserve a table or you might find it more hectic than relaxing!"
