Victoria Hotel, Wells-Next-The-Sea

An imposing flint and slate building at the approach to Holkham Hall in North Norfolk,owned and managed by the Estate.Despite it being an Inn with several bedrooms and majoring on meals, it still has a public bar complete with dartboard. Mostly laid up for dining ,there are comfy armchairs in front of the fire, and a"Drawing Room" across the corridor from the public bar,into which I didn't venture. The pub and garden are immaculately maintained,the interior decorated in a rurally opulent manner:a collection of stuffed wildfowl proving to be of much interest. On our lunchtime visit on a showery October Monday a fair number of walkers,birdwatchers and tourists were in attendance. Service was friendly and efficient, with a judicious level of banter: meals good but on the pricey side. Three handpumps offering Adnams Southwold Bitter and Broadside, together with Woodforde's Wherry. The Southwold was unimpeachable:other fizzy offerings were available.

Official site of the Victoria at Holkham - www.holkham.co.uk

Official site of the Victoria at Holkham - www.holkham.co.uk