Old Hunstanton Restaurant Guide

“Absolutely superb in every way” – the “amazing seasonal food from a one-man kitchen” at this famous former coaching inn on the north Norfolk coast is “a real treat”. Owners Kevin & Jackie Margeolles are celebrating their twentieth year here, and many dedicated fans regard a visit as “our annual event, despite the distance” – “Kevin’s refined touch and constantly changing flavours keep you coming back, while Jackie’s friendly and knowledgeable service complements his cooking to a T”. A “reasonably priced wine list” and “comfortable bedrooms” complete the picture.

“What a delight” – a “special dining experience” in Drove Orchards from Eric Snaith of Titchwell Manor fame, where you can either eat in or cart it away to enjoy amid the apple trees. The main event is “crisp, perfectly fried fish” ’n’ chips, and the “lunch and early-bird specials are excellent value”. There’s now a single spin-off in Holt, the chef having closed a five-year-old branch in St Ives, Cambridgeshire, in July 2024, with the intention to redirect his focus back on Norfolk.

“Atmospheric old building in a pretty village not far from the coast”, with “very well cooked food – way beyond gastropub level” from Fred Clapperton (ex-head chef of the Clock House in Surrey), and “a good wine list” to match, although “you can still pop in for a pint” (or of course a gin). Dating from 1668, the former coaching inn joined East Anglia’s Chestnut Group in 2024, and has 13 boutique rooms for overnight guests.