The Ordnance Arms, Dereham

I really wasn't sure whether or not this pub would be open, given a number of contradicting opening times for drinks and food on the internet. Nevertheless, I arrived late on Sunday evening to find what seemed like an empty pub. On closer inspection, the Thai restaurant at the rear was doing a roaring trade, presumably from local, repeat custom who were aware of the opening hours. With a friendly barman and landlord, who seemed generally interested in my travels around the UK's pubs, in addition to an 85-year old deaf turkey farmer who rears the Queen's Christmas lunch, my visit here was a satisfying experience. This pub certainly seems to merge the Thai restaurant part of the business with the local village pub part to create a well-run business that probably sees the place survive. Whilst Greene King IPA & Abbot were the only 2 real ales available (Moon Gazer Jigfoot had run out earlier in the day and was being pulled through), the friendliness of the staff and locals in this pub made it my favourite pub of the day in Norfolk. I only wish we had known for certain that the restaurant part was open, as we would certainly not have eaten earlier.

Official site of Ordnance Arms - www.ordnancearms.co.uk

Official site of Ordnance Arms - www.ordnancearms.co.uk