Norfolk is steeped in history and has a plethora of historic pubs to explore. Wonky windows, traditional food, secret corridors and cosy corners are in abundance as we pick 12 of the best historical pubs you should try in Norfolk
Adam & Eve, Norwich (13th century)
The oldest pub in Norwich is Adam & Eve in Bishopgate. At least 700 years old, this pub serves up well kept ales and is well known to have excellent food as well. Flowers bloom from windowsills and hanging baskets that adorn the flint and brick exterior, making for the perfect setting in the summer. In the colder months, find a cosy nook and keep warm with a spread of fine food and drink to while the evening away.
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The King’s Head, Bawburgh (17th century)
With a host of awards and accolades, The King’s Head in the pretty village of Bawburgh was built in the 17th century and many charming features from times gone by. The sympathetically decorated interiors come with log burning fires, exposed dark wood beams and wonky doors; and with two AA Rosettes for Culinary Excellence under its belt, your stomach and your eye for beauty will be satiated.
Green Dragon, Wymondham (14th century)
One of our top dining pubs in the county is also one of our top historical pubs in the county. The Green Dragon in Wymondham exudes olde worlde charm with its medieval exterior and dark wood décor. Locally sourced ingredients go into the food and there are many local names served at the bar too!
Don’t miss: Ale, Cider, and Music festivals at the Green Dragon are always heaps of fun. Keep updated on the website.
The Wig & Pen, Norwich (17th century)
The Wig & Pen on St Martins Palace Plain in Norwich is a 17th century pub renowned for its beers, illustrated with its 19 year run in CAMRA’s Good Beer Guide. There is a large outside seating area that is perfect to soak up some summer sun, or head inside for a cosy glass of real ale.
Don’t miss: With pub food staples on its menu such as Norfolk ale battered Cod tail fillet with chips and mushy peas or steak and ale pie with rich gravy, season vegetables and a choice of potatoes, this is perfect to refuel after a ramble around Norwich.
Kings Arms, Blakeney (17th century)
The beautiful north Norfolk seaside village of Blakeney is a popular spot to spend some time with the vast seas and skies that are famously breathtaking in this part of the county. Once you have finished your seaside walk, why not head to the Grade II listed, 17th century Kings Arms for locally sourced food? This traditional inn, complete with unspoilt historical features, serves fresh seafood; pub classics; and has plenty of beers behind the bar.
The Feathers Hotel, Holt (17th century)
Updated with chic interiors but still retaining nods to its history is The Feathers Hotel in Holt. An open brick fireplace next to the bar stocked with lots of beers and fine wines will greet you in this cosy establishment.
Don’t miss: With nods to Victorian design, rooms at The Feathers offer a luxurious place to lay your head after a meal in the restaurant or drink at the bar.
The Chequers Inn, Binham (17th century)
Dark wooden beams, open brick fireplaces, historic exteriors, and plenty of beers, The Chequers Inn is a no-nonsense traditional pub in the north Norfolk village of Binham. Sample the latest changing beers and relish some quiet time or conversation with friends and family at The Chequers. When you’ve finished, explore the village that includes sights such as Binham Priory and is a short way from the picturesque north Norfolk coastline including the popular Blakeney Point.
The Bowling Green Inn, Wells-next-the-Sea (17th century)
Using local suppliers for its varied food menu, The Bowling Green Inn in the pretty seaside town of Wells-next-the-Sea is supposedly the “oldest pub in Wells” dating at least as far back as 1673. Explore the town before retreating to this friendly pub for a refreshing pint or a full on feast.
The Earle Arms, Heydon (16th century)
With ephemera from days of yore decorating the cosy interiors at The Earle Arms in Heydon, this is certainly a cosy and historical spot to enjoy a drink or maybe some fresh seafood. Seafood is brought in fresh to make tempting creations such as smoked haddock chowder; whole baked sea bass with herb butter and vegetables; or breaded whitebait with lemon mayonnaise and green leaves – yum!
The Blue Boar Inn, Great Ryburgh (17th century)
If your idea of a relaxing afternoon is sitting with a pint in hand next to a wood burning fire surrounded by period features such as exposed brickwork and dark wooden beams then look no further than The Blue Boar Inn in the pretty village of Great Ryburgh. In the warmer months, there is a picturesque beer garden to soak up some rays in too.
Don’t miss: Even though this is a historical pub, there are lots of modern dishes on the menu for patrons to sample.
The Banningham Crown (17th century)
The Banningham Crown exudes that traditional country pub ambiance that’s so attractive to tourists and locals alike. After a walk through this country village on a Sunday afternoon, why not head to The Crown for a Sunday roast accompanied by one of the draught ales available? With at least one ale from within 30 miles of the pub, you can sense the community spirit and support for local producers.
The Rose & Crown, Snettisham (14th century)
Located along the west coast of Norfolk in the village of Snettisham is the quintessentially British country pub The Rose & Crown. Shabby chic meets nautical for the décor with plenty of historical features displayed throughout including an open brick fireplace and charmingly wonky wooden beams. Gather friends round for an intimate drink or meal that makes use of ingredients in its dishes sourced locally. If you want to extend your stay, spend the night in one of the 16 inviting rooms.
Don’t miss: Stunning vistas at Snettisham beach make for the perfect morning walk after your stay at The Rose & Crown!
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