WORDS: REBECCA ALMOND. PHOTOGRAPHS: PJ BAYFIELD. *APPLIES TO STAYS TAKEN BEFORE 31 JANUARY 2018 [EXCLUDES DECEMBER 2017]
WHY IT’S GREAT This one-time coaching inn near the Norfolk coast retains much of its yesteryear charm. Dating back to the 14th century, it stands faithfully beside the parish church, formerly Ingham Priory before King Henry VIII ordered its destruction in the 16th century. There’s little else in walking distance, but therein lies much of the attraction. It’s an unassuming thatched outpost surrounded in all directions by farming fields. If you stumbled across it by chance you’d feel rather smug – and you’d be eager to return.
THE FOODIE BIT The restaurant exudes character with cosy nooks and low ceilings, and the service is exemplary – efficient but not at all rushed. As for the food? Faultless. Chef-owner Daniel Smith got his big break working at London’s famed Le Gavroche, before returning to his Norfolk roots and carving his own reputation. Expectations were high – and the food didn’t disappoint. My husband and I declared it the best meal we’d ever eaten.