Food & Drink
Cocktails & dreams; 5 of the best places to enjoy a tipple in North Norfolk

From classic and signatures to the bespoke and unusual here’s some of our favourite venues to sample a cocktail or two
The White Horse, Brancaster
An award winning and popular pub known for its delicious seafood and stunning views of the Marsh. Hunker down by the roaring fire in the bar area, or head down to the Marshside bar, soaking up the sunset and salty air and not forgetting the great selection of cocktails – try their High Tidal Mojito with smoked seaweed rum or Marshside Mary – perfect with ½ dozen Brancaster oysters! The 2 Rosette restaurant offers a variety of locally sourced seafood, go for the seafood platter to share with dressed Cromer crab, British Rock oysters with shallot vinegar, ‘Staithe Smokehouse’ salmon & shell on crevettes.
The White Horse, Main Road, Brancaster Staithe, Norfolk PE31 8BY www.whitehorsebrancaster.co.uk
The Gin Trap Inn, Ringstead
Nestled in the pretty village of Ringstead; a stone’s throw from the coast, this historic 17th century coaching inn is a popular haunt amongst locals, visitors, families and pooches! The kitchen team are committed to creating innovative dishes showcasing the diverse and delicious locally produced ingredients – don’t miss the Brancaster oysters, seaweed wrapped halibut or hazelnut stuffed choux bun. Cosy up in the traditional bar or sit alfresco in the stylish courtyard terrace. As the name suggests, you can expect a great selection of gins, with over 100 different options and cocktails made with fresh, local ingredients.
The Gin Trap Inn, High Street, Ringstead, PE36 5JU; www.thegintrapinn.co.uk
No.Twenty 9 Bar & Restaurant, Burnham Market
Set in the bustling and picturesque village of Burnham Market, this stylish bar and restaurant serves an extensive range of cocktails, gins, beers and wine in relaxed and friendly surroundings. You can grab a table in the lounge or opt for the festoon adorned walled courtyard and soak up the busy atmosphere with a cocktail and snack – try the crab mayonnaise with sourdough and pickles or the toad in the hole with onion gravy. Alternatively savour the full seasonal menu in the restaurant with dishes cooked on the wood fired grill, also don’t miss the live music every other Friday night.
No Twenty 9, 29 Market Place, Burnham Market, Norfolk PE31 8HF; www.number-29.com
The Orange Tree, Thornham
Known for its botanical cocktails and a fantastic selection of spirits The Orange Tree is a contemporary dining pub located in the heart of Thornham, a beautiful coastal village with a secluded beach. Wander back from the beach to a warm welcome and friendly laid-back atmosphere and sample the delicious locally sourced menu – try the award-winning wild seabass and Norfolk razor clam or ‘fairground’ dessert – a firm favourite with the locals! It’s a perfect venue for a night out with friends and family, grab a table inside by the log burner or let the kids run wild in the enclosed garden and play area.
The Orange Tree, High Street, Thornham, PE36 6LY; www.theorangetreethornham.co.uk
The Globe Inn, Wells-Next-The-Sea
Situated in the bustling seaside town of Wells-Next-The-Sea, The Globe Inn is a newly renovated stylish and modern pub overlooking the charming village green. Play board games with friends and family by the open fire with an espresso martini or watch the world go by from the pretty courtyard. The menu changes frequently and you can expect plenty of locally sourced fish, tasty and simple dishes where the ingredients are the star of the show.
The Globe Inn, The Buttlands, Wells-Next-The-Sea, Norfolk, NR23 1EU www.theglobeatwells.co.uk