The Best Pubs in East Anglia (Norfolk and Suffolk)

The location is nothing short of idyllic: stay the night in a bedroom designed by Robert Kime and wake up to views of deer grazing in parkland on the 1,000-acre private estate. Approximately 15 minutes' drive south of Cromer, this former steward’s house oozes traditional charm and character, blended with some interesting modern artwork. Most of the cooking takes place over an open fire in the aptly named Elk Room; dishes are refreshingly unfussy, wholesome and full of natural flavour – Gunton deer makes an appearance from time-to-time.

Moulton sits nestled in the West Suffolk hills, close to the town of Newmarket, made famous as the home of horseracing. The Packhorse Inn lies near the village green and is named after the nearby 15th century flint bridge which spans the River Kennett. As for the cooking, the kitchen champions local and seasonal produce in assured, sensibly priced dishes. Eight ultra-stylish bedrooms are split between the main building and the former coach house, and four-legged friends are welcome to stay too.

Most head for the coast when they visit Norfolk, but there is so much to see and do inland too. Located to the west of Norwich, Sculthorpe Mill makes an ideal base to visit the likes of Sandringham Estate and Houghton Hall & Gardens. It was built in 1757 and, while it retains plenty of period charm, its overall feel is now contemporary and stylish. There is a reassuringly bold, unfussy style to the cooking, with lighter bites also available in the bar. If you plan to stay the night, be sure to ask for a room with a river view.

When the residents of this picturesque Suffolk village realised their beloved local was threatened with closure, they unhesitatingly came to its rescue, with the result that The Brewers is the heart of the community once more. With a brightly painted exterior befitting of the colourful surrounding cottages, and a well-tended garden to the side, this is a proudly run pub where a warm welcome is given to all. Pub favourites rub shoulders with more modern dishes and they even offer a tasting menu.

If you fancy exploring the famous Anglo-Saxon burial ground at Sutton Hoo, Bromeswell is the ideal place to seek nourishment, as it’s just one mile away. Despite any image the name might conjure up, The Unruly Pig is actually a rather sophisticated, handsome place, built from red brick and complete with a much sought-after terrace. The kitchen looks to the Mediterranean for its inspiration, but ingredients may well be sourced closer to home.

Stoke Holy Cross is a delightful village just south of Norwich, and is where Jeremiah Colman began manufacturing his famous English mustard in 1814. At its heart sits this smart dining pub with a pretty front terrace, where it’s all too easy to while away the hours. The cooking is modern and refined, with menus ranging from a list of great value daily specials to an inventive tasting selection.