It is the season for staying warm and cosy, indulging in treats and relaxing with friends and family - and what better place for doing that than a cosy rural pub?
1. The Three Horseshoes
Where: 69 The Street, Warham, Wells-next-the-Sea, NR23 1NL
This characterful flint pub is traditional and classic, with a simple menu of pub staples made with local produce and ales from Woodfordes and Adnams.
The pub says on its TripAdvisor page that "pies, puddings and all pub classics are our passion".
2. Rose and Crown
Where: Old Church Road, Snettisham, PE31 7LX
The Rose and Crown is a quintessential country pub, with an open fire, low ceilings and old beams, as well as good food and a friendly welcoming atmosphere.
The pub's menu changes regularly with the seasons, using local produce.
It was named Norfolk Dining Pub of the Year in 2020 and a won a TripAdvisor Travellers' Choice Award in 2024.
3. Lifeboat Inn
Where: Ship Lane, Thornham, Hunstanton, PE36 6LT
Situated on the coast, overlooking the fields and expanses of saltmarshes is the Lifeboat Inn.
Enjoy its traditional food by the open fire in the timber building which feels like stepping back in time.
The pub's menus changes depending on the availability of local produce.
4. The Wiveton Bell
Where: Blakeney Road, Holt, NR25 7TL
Just off the village green and a mile from the saltmarshes at Blakeney, The Wiveton Bell offers a cosy welcome to visitors in this beautiful corner of Norfolk.
Cosy-up in the bar with its original 14th-century beams and wood-burning stove.
Its locally sourced dishes have scooped two AA Rosettes and a Michelin Bib Gourmand.
5. Gunton Arms
Where: Cromer Road, Thorpe Market NR11 8YTZ
Situated on the thousand-acre deer park, the Gunton Arms is a truly traditional country pub, set with wooden beams and an open fire.
The pub walls are filled with art, reflecting the owner's passion.
Pieces include works by Tracey Emin, Damien Hirst and Lucian Freud as well as sculptures around the park.
6. The Dun Cow
Where: Purdy Street, Salthouse, NR25 7XA
The pub boasts log-burning fires, exposed brickwork and wooden beams, comfortable chairs and a great range of real ales and gins to warm you while you enjoy the saltmarsh vistas.
The menu includes some great local seafood options from the coastal doorstep.
Earlier this month, The Good Food Guide named it one of the cosiest pubs in the country.
7. The Brisley Bell
Where: The Green, Brisley, NR20 5DW
The Brisley Bell is home to book-lined walls, cosy dining rooms and bars, roaring inglenooks, warming menus and a hearty menu.
A broad selection of ales, beers, wines and spirits are on offer to break your winter walk up beautifully.
In September 2024, it was featured on an episode of Mortimer & Whitehouse: Gone Fishing.
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