Historic eateries, reasons to visit and the signature dishes.

Six of the best historic eateries

The Library Bar and Grill

4a Guildhall Hill, Norwich, NR2 1JH, 01603 616606, www.thelibraryrestaurant.co.uk

Reasons to visit: It once housed a private subscription library, endured a dramatic fire and was a magistrates’ court. Today, this impressive building still retains many of its 19th century features. Enjoy uniquely-flavoured wood-grilled dishes in the main restaurant with its original bookcases and art gallery balcony, or sample salads and rotisserie in the historic Reading Room.

Signature dishes: The wood-grilled steaks and burgers served with hand-cut chips.

Open: 12pm to 2pm, 6pm to 10pm (Mon to Thur); 12pm to 3pm, 6pm to 11pm (Fri and Sat); 12pm to 4pm (Sun).

Cost: Starters from �4; mains from �6; desserts all �4.75.

The Lord Nelson

Walsingham Road, Burnham Thorpe, Kings Lynn, PE31 8HN, 01328 738241, www.nelsonslocal.co.uk

Reasons to visit: Little has changed at this 17th century ale house since it was frequented by the great naval hero – you can even sit on the same high backed settle used by Lord Nelson! The menu features traditional pub fare alongside fine dining inspired by Nelson’s journeys to Italy. Local steaks, salads, pizzas and paninis, washed down with Nelson’s Blood, a secret blend of 100-proof rum and spices.

Signature dishes: The flavoursome chicken breast with gorgonzola.

Open: 12pm to 2pm (Mon); 12pm to 3pm, 6pm to 9pm (Tues to Sun).

Cost: Starters from �3.95; mains from �9.50; desserts all �4.95.

Maddermarket TeaRoom

20 St John Maddermarket, Norwich, NR2 1DN, 07531 255230.

Reasons to visit: Located in a beautiful 18th century building, the Maddermarket TeaRoom’s menu draws on historic secret recipes from the region’s nuns and monks, and sources its ingredients from the town’s market and local producers. There is a daily changing lunch menu of dishes like fish specialities and rissoles, and cream teas served with cakes and Portuguese pastries. Local artists are encouraged to exhibit in the lounge and classical musicians are invited to perform on Saturday afternoons.

Signature dishes: Seafood rice, featuring lots of crab, lobsters, prawns and mussels.

Open: 9am to 5pm (daily).

Cost: Starters from �2; mains from �6; desserts from �2.50.

Sutherland House Hotel

56 High Street, Southwold, IP18 6DN, 01502 724544, www.sutherlandhouse.co.uk

Reasons to visit: Originally a ship doctor’s home – and one-time residence of King James II – this Grade II listed hotel dates back to 1455 and has original mast beams, elm floorboards, pargetted ceilings and a medieval window. It also boasts contemporary furnishings and a two AA-rosette menu of seasonal local ingredients. Choose from informal tapas, gourmet sandwiches, fresh fish dishes, hearty dinners or three-course meals.

Signature dishes: The multiple award-winning black pudding and pork sausages.

Open: 12pm to 3pm, 7pm to 9pm (daily).

Cost: Starters from �3.50; mains from �4.95 (lunch), �10.95 (dinner); desserts from �5.

Three Horseshoes

69 The Street, Warham, Wells, NR23 1NL, 01328 710547.

Reasons to visit: An ale house since 1725, the Three Horseshoes has charming gas lamp lights, open fireplaces and “Norfolk Twister”, an ancient rural roulette game located in the ceiling that dates back to 1830. The 1930s style interior deco is reflected in a menu of unfussy, traditional food like casseroles, stew and game that’s inspired by Mrs Beeton’s cooking. And the spotted dick, steamed puddings and fruit crumble come in generous portions.

Signature dishes: The home-made beef pie made with beer and local vegetables.

Open: For food: 12pm to 1.45pm, 6pm to 8pm (daily).

Cost: Starters from �3.20; mains from �7; desserts from �2.80.

Yaxham Mill Restaurant

Norwich Road, Yaxham, Dereham, NR19 1RP, 01362 851182, www.yaxhammill.com

Reasons to visit: Built in 1860, Yaxham Mill was left to ruin before being restored in the 1990s. Since then, the Millers House and Chapel have become the Yaxham Mill Restaurant and Bar, a family-run eaterie serving creative, British cuisine. Browse the menu of baguettes, jackets and omelettes, as well as substantial pork, lamb, fish and chicken dishes – and not forgetting the traditional home-made puddings.

Signature dishes: Sally’s pie – sausage meat bound in sage and onion sauce.

Open: 12pm to 2.30pm, 6.30pm to 9pm (Mon to Sat); 6.30pm to 8.30pm (Sun).

Cost: Starters from �4.25; mains from �11.95; desserts from �4.25.