The following was, or will be, published in Norfolk Nips. If you have any news about pubs in the branch area, please let us know by email to pubdata@norwich.camra.org.uk. Check out the latest information on pubs using the CAMRA Pubs website.
Summer 2026
The Marsham Arms at Hevingham has been sold for the first time in 50 years, with Nigel Bradley, who has owned and run the pub since 1976, selling to Steve Clarkson.
The York on Leicester St reopened after a short period of closure in April, under the management of Rose Hanison of the Black Horse on Earlham Rd.
The George & Dragon at Thurton was available for lease in April, as the current tenants decided to move on.
The Queen’s Head at Wymondham closed in April due to rising costs, problems with kitchen, staff and renovations taking longer and being expensive.
The Cross Keys at Dilham closed at the end of January, when owners of 16 years Paul and Karen left the pub, and reopened in March.
The owners of the Fox at Lyng, Gavin and Victoria Hunt, left the pub in January after 13 years in charge.
The Two Lifeboats at Sheringham has announced, following a change of management in February, that they’re no longer table service only, so back to being a pub again!
We’ve just heard that the Duke’s Head at West Rudham changed hands in November, when Tham and Kim retired after 22 years at the pub – we wish them a long and happy retirement.
The New Inn at Roughton closed at the end of March.
BrewDog in Queen St, Norwich, closed in early March, when the company, valued at over £1bn a few years ago, was sold for £33m to US cannabis (!) and drinks firm Tilray. 37 other bars around the country were also closed. Previously the Hogshead,
The Malt & Mardle in Magdalen St has been bought by David Jones, previously of Bier Draak, and World Beer Bar manager at Norwich Beer Festival.
The Millwrights Arms at Toftwood has closed – another victim of Stonegate.
The Maltsters at Ranworth closed for a month in March for a six-figure refurb of the building, kitchen and patio.
Spring 2026
The Railway at Wymondham has been closed since the untimely death of publican Ian Cowling.
The Cricketers on the Green at Aldborough changed hands at the end of October, with Julie Bacon taking on the pub after Kent Laws and Julie Heakin left.
The Wheel of Fortune at Alpington has opened an onsite store, with the help of Pub is the Hub.
The Arboretum on St Benedicts St closed at the end of December.
The Swan at Mattishall closed before Christmas.
The leasehold of the Malt & Mardle was put up for sale in December, with an asking price of £49,950.
Sir Toby’s have opened a new outlet in a container on the St Saviours’ Box Park, under the flyover on Magdalen St, as a sister venue for the stall on Norwich Market and micropub Bier Draak on Upper King St. At opening in December, there was a selection of bottles and cans, draught keg beers and cask beer from a pin.
The 16th-century Earle Arms at Heydon Pub closed on Christmas Eve and the owners, the Heydon Estate, are collaborating with Norwich-based BREAD Hospitality to renovate the property, which should reopen in spring.
The Canary & Linnet at Little Fransham, half way between Norwich and Kings Lynn on the A47, reopened in March after three years closed, after a refurb and a change of name to the Noon Gun.
The Rose Tavern in Rupert St closed in January, with landlady Janet White retiring after nearly 20 years at the pub.
The White Hart at Wymondham closed for a minor refurb in January, and reopened with a new bar sporting ten handpumps, significantly increasing the choice in the town, Beers to be stocked are mostly from local breweries, plus others from the likes of Oakham and Timothy Taylor.
The White Horse at Cromer reopened in February after six months’ closure. The pub is owned by Stonegate.
The Old Ram at Tivetshall and Dove Inn Alburgh have closed recently.
Winter 2025
The Rampant Horse, a Stonegate pub in Fakenham which closed in June reopened in August after a ‘six-figure’ makeover. There’s a new games area with darts and pool, Sky Q TV and a refurbished patio area outside.
The Green Dragon at Wymondham reopened in September.
The Cherry Tree at Wicklewood reopened in late summer, having been closed since April. My correspondent reports that the two Mighty Oak beers available on gravity were in excellent condition.
The Swan at Stalham was bought from Adnams in June, and is now fully independent, with up to four ales available from local breweries.Brothers Richard and Robert Cook and Robert’s wife Vicky have been managing the pub as tenants since 2020, and jumped at the chance to buy the pub when it came up for sale.
The Dog House in Norwich has been reopened by Laine Pub Co as Dead Wax Social, with a DJ booth downstairs and live music upstairs. Older readers will remember the pub as the Red Lion.
The Bush at Costessey is under new ownership, and is now serving four ales mostly from local breweries.
The Robin Hood in Sheringham reopened in September with a new landlord. The Stonegate-owned pub closed in April due to the retirement of the previous incumbent. The pub ran a beer festival with up to 20 ales when it reopened during the town’s 1940’s weekend, also on offer is food, music and sports.
The Ship at South Walsham was permanently lost to housing as a planning application was approved by the council.
The Ostrich Inn at South Creake reopened in mid-November.
Autumn 2025
Starting in Norwich, the All Bar One premises on Tombland, which closed in January last year, reopened as Melville & Sons in April. No real ale unfortunately, but a welcome late-night venue.
The Belle Vue in St Phillips Rd reopened in June after a major refurb, under the management of Simon and Jenny Turner, who also own the Boars at Spooner Row, the Kings Head at New Buckenham and the Cellar House at Eaton.
The Nelson in Nelson St, a Stonegate pub, has been taken on by Snug Hospitality, who have several other pubs in the county, including the Woodman at Catton and the Freemasons in Norwich, and reopened in August.
Following up on a tip from a reader, we visited Aylsham to find a number of new venues to add to CAMRA’s online pub guide: Bar 44, The Living Room and M’s. While all three qualify as ‘pubs’ under CAMRA’s definition – you can buy drinks without eating, booking or having a room – I think they would probably see themselves more as bars or bar/cafe/restaurants.
Bar 44 has a wood-panelled room with a small bar, reminiscent of a French cafe/bar, with two comfortably-furnished upstairs rooms. A real ale is available on gravity from the cellar.
The Living Room is the closest to a pub, with a bright modern bar with several taps, which opened in May. Current opening hours are from 4pm during the week, but it is hoped to extend this to all day every day as soon as possible.
M’s, which boasts a wet fish deli and serves excellent fish and seafood tapas and other dishes, also has no real ale on draught, but does stock a wide range of Norfolk products including Norfolk wines and bottled ales from local breweries.
Unfortunately there are a few closures to report. Ry’s Bar in Attleborough closed a while ago now. The pub reopened as the Bear (it was the Bear Hotel before the name change to Ry’s) in January, but unfortunately closed again in March.
The Horse & Groom at Tunstead and the Ostrich Inn at South Creek closed in April, and the White Horse at Cromer has closed again, not long after reopening. Pubco Stonegate have it on their website (at time of writing in July) with a ludicrous projected turnover of £644,000 and rent of £39,000 per year.
Some good news to close on though – the Anchor at Morston has reopened under the management of the owners, the Temple family, after a major refurbishment. The family have owned the pub for over 120 years, but have leased it out over the last several years, to concentrate on their nearby seal-viewing trips business.
The Robin Hood in Sheringham reopened in August after three months closed.
The Huntsman at Strumpshaw reopened under the ownership of multiple-operator Marcus Pearcey, who has several other pubs in the city and surrounding area. The pub had been closed since 2017 after issues with flooding, and appeared lost.
And at Barford, the Cock Inn has reopened as the Crazy Cow restaurant and bar, following a major refurb inside and out.
The Canary & Linnet at Little Fransham has been bought by Malcolm & Mandy Clark, originally from South Africa. An opening date is not yet known as there is much work to do to restore the pub to its former glory after being closed for 3 years.
Planning applications for the Ship at South Walsham and Horseshoes at Alby have been lodged to convert them to housing. Objections have been raised.
The Gull in Framingham Pigot has been sold for £260,000, considerably less than the original asking price of £800,000. As yet, we do not know what the future plans for the pub are, this also applies to the fate of the Heartsease and Gatehouse in Norwich.
Summer 2025
Starting in the county, the Rampant Horse in Fakenham closes in June, as owners Stonegate want to convert it to a managed house. The current lessees have been at the pub for more than 20 years, and took on the nearby Reds Bar in February.
The Stag at Salhouse was sold in February to Marcus Pearcey, who has several other pubs in the area, after an auction at which it had failed to reach its reserve price when bidding ended at £517,000. He has also taken over Revolution in Queen St, Norwich, which has reopened as Kelly’s.
The Ram Inn, Brundall has reopened for a brand-new chapter with a focus on community. Publicans Leah and Kyle have a bold vision to make it a place for locals and visitors to enjoy everything that makes a proper local pub special There’ll be three changing real ales, pop-up food trucks and quiz nights raising funds for Brundall Lions. They plan to make the Ram the beating heart of Brundall once again.
The Kings Head at Dereham closed in February, and the landlord moved to the Royal Standard, in the same town, which reopened recently.
The Cross Keys at Wymondham, a Greene King pub, closed in March, as did the Wellington-owned Queens Head at Foulsham, but better news in Cromer where the White Horse reopened.
The Cherry Tree at Wicklewood closed in April for refurbishment and reopened in July, and the Robin Hood at Sheringham closed in May. Owners Stonegate are looking for another tenant.
The Swan at Ringland has reopened after a refurb carried out by new owners Colchester Inns, who have several other pubs including the Rising Sun at Coltishall and the Recruiting Sergeant at Horstead.
In Norwich, the Edith Cavell in Tombland reopened again in March, after another refurb, but this time with two real ales available.
The Heartsease on the ring road closed and was sold by owners Greene King in March, and Bedford’s Bar in Bedford St closed in April.
Some better news at No. 12 in Farmers Avenue, also possibly better known as Le/La Rouen, will be reopening as a pub at some point – it’s being renovated by father and son team Neil and Christian Burgess. They’re planning a traditional pub with a restaurant upstairs. The pub has recently been painted a fetching shade of ochre!
The publicans at the Walnut Tree Shades and the Reindeer on Dereham Rd have effectively swapped places, with well-known host Lou Wilding taking over at the Shades after several years at the Reindeer, and Mark Scarlett moving in the opposite direction to the Bateman’s pub, where he plans on extending the range of real ales while retaining live music.
When it reopens in July the Stonegate-owned Shades will be run as a Craft Union franchise, and is undergoing a substantial refurb to allow for better provision of live music – a welcome development as we’ve lost so many music venues in the city.
The Ribs of Beef on Wensum St has been sold to Punch Taverns by owners Roger and Anthea Cawdron, with current long-term managers John Power and Jo Dale continuing to run the pub, and serve the same great range of ales.
This marks the end of an era, with Roger and Anthea retiring after 55 years in the trade, most of it at the Ribs, which they bought in 1985 and re-licensed – it had been a pub since at least 1743, but had been used for retail purposes since closing, as the Fye Bridge Tavern, in 1959. Real ale in Norwich was a rarity at that time, but was embraced and promoted by Roger and Anthea, and the pub became known for its selection of quality ales and regular live music – a reputation it still maintains. On behalf of Norwich & District CAMRA members, and all real ale, live music and pub lovers, I’d like to thank Roger and Anthea for everything they have done for real ale in Norwich, and wish them a very happy retirement!
Spring 2025
The Wine Cellar in Norwich was forced to close late last year, due to losses incurred while the Leeds Building Society building above and around them was refurbished. Rob Waterson, whose wife owned the business, says that during the 19 months the scaffolding was up, trade was down by 20%, with customers not realising the business was still open. Appeals to the CEO of the society were not fruitful, and their insurance company refused a claim. The final straw on November 4th came when the owner of the building sent bailiffs in.
The Bull at Walsingham reopened back in May last year.
The Aviator at Sculthorpe closed at the start of January.
The Royal Standard at Dereham and the White Horse at Cromer closed in January.
The Belle Vue in St Philips Rd closed in January.
Urban Lounge in Magdalen Rd has been bought by the owners of Redwell Brewery & Tap, and will sell their beers.
The Edith Cavell in Tombland has closed again.
Alby Horseshoes Inn at Alby closed and was sold in November.
The owners of the Blue Boar at Great Ryburgh, which has been operating as a B&B, are offering the pub for sale. The group wishing to save the pub has been to view it and will review what can be done next.
The Save the Gatehouse group trying to buy the Gatehouse on Dereham Road have launched an appeal for people to pledge an amount towards buying the pub for the community. If you are interested then visit gatehousecommunityhub.co.uk to make an offer.
The Angel Gardens in Norwich is still selling cars from the front of the closed pub. The City Council has been asked to investigate.
The parish council were unsuccessful in their bid to renew the ACV on the Butcher’s Arms at East Ruston which has not been running as a pub since COVID.
Winter 2024
Mostly positive news this edition, with a lot of reopenings, mostly after short periods of closure.
The Quarter Deck cafe in Sheringham reopened in August as the Lines End pub, named as it sits between the ends of two railway lines. Owned by Will Chandler and Logan Coatesworth, who also own the Gangway Bar next door, and Gangway in Cromer, the pub has two handpumps and a number of craft keg taps.
Hunworth Bell closed at the end of May, when the leaseholders of seven years decided to step away. The owners, the Stody Estate, have said the pub is not viable in its current format, as they’ve been looking for suitable lessees to take it on, but “no-one credible has come forward”. They intend to reduce the operation back to a village pub “centred around its 18C bar”, still serving food, and have promised to consult with the local community.
Holt has gained a second micropub, with the opening of the Canny Fox in August. The pub will focus on Norfolk produce, with local ales, spirits and food including pork pies and pizza from Brick.
The Diplomat at Coltishall reopened at the end of August, and now serves breakfast, lunch and dinner every day.
The Crown at Trunch reopened in September.
The Dun Cow at Salthouse changed hands in September, with Kate and Matt Starling taking over from Dan Goff, who had run the pub for 15 years. Matt’s parents ran the pub for several years before Mr Goff. They’ve expanded the kitchen team, and will be opening every day from 11.45am to 11pm.
The Otter at Thorpe Marriott closed in July for a major refurb, and reopened in October as the Old Mill.
The White Horse in Cromer has reopened under the management of the owners of Masala Twist, a local Indian restaurant. Half of the premises is now advertised as ‘Sultan’ Turkish mezze and bar.
The Anchor at Morston has closed, we believe for another refurb, although with the pub not opening every day even in the summer, its future is uncertain.
The Black Lion at Buxton closed at the end of September, following the retirement of the landlords, who had run the pub for over 20 years. Free-of-tie pub company Wellington are looking for new tenants.
The Cock at Dereham, which closed in July, reopened in October.
The Dog at Ludham is now closed for winter, until March 21 next year.
In Norwich, the Artichoke closed in September and was sold to new owners, who reopened the pub in late October. While still stocking a range of craft beers, on draught and in small pack, the focus will move a little towards cask ales, with five available at all times.
The Belle Vue in St Philip’s Rd reopened in October after closing in July.
The Gibraltar Gardens has reopened, after a short period of closure.
And last but not least, Congratulations to Aey Allen, who celebrated 15 years at the Vine in November. Aey took over the pub, once owned by Adnams, in 2009, and refurbished it, moving the bar from the left side to the rear, and moving the toilets upstairs, adding a Thai food menu, and serving three real ales from local breweries from the start – an unusual combination which has proved very popular! Not considered a micropub – had the term been invented in 2009? – but still the smallest pub in the city.
Reefs Bar in Sea Palling closed in July and reopened shortly after as the Lifeboat Tavern, following the retirement of the owners of 20 years. The pub was previously the Lifeboat.
The Angel at Swanton Morley closed in November, with the Wellington pubco lessees moving out after 18 years. The pub has been on the site since at least 1785, and has historical links with Abraham Lincoln. The owners are looking for new tenants.
The Green Dragon at Wymondham closed in November, with the lessees citing insufficient investment from Admiral Taverns, the freehold owners.
The lease on the Bush at Costessey has gone up for sale following the retirement of licensees Gary and Debra Wilson, who have been at the Wellington-owned pub for over 20 years.
Autumn 2024
The Surrey in Surrey St closed earlier this year, less than a year after it reopened.
Having taken on and reopened the Sole & Heel at Rackheath this summer, Marcus Pearcey has now gone for the double, taking on the Green Man in the same village, which has been closed since Autumn 2022.
In Norwich, both the Nelson, Nelson St, and the Gibraltar Gardens, Heigham St. are both currently closed, with owners Stonegate looking for new tenants, at £23,000 and £38,000 per year respectively. Expected takings are stated at approximately £1,000 and £1,500 per day – your guess is as good as mine as to how realistic those figures are!
The Dog House has been closed for some time.
Permission has been granted to convert the Heath House to housing, despite objections and the pub not having been shown to be unviable.
The White Horse at East Runton reopened in July after a major refurbishment, inside and out, and is now a very modern restaurant and bar. The owners have also bought the nearby Bernie’s Bar.
Rick and Felicity Malt have taken over the Pleasure Boat at Hickling which reopened in August. The pub was taken by the Norfolk Wildlife Trust last year, and is being refurbished.The couple run two other Broads pubs, the White Horse at Neatishead and the Lion at Thurne.
The Cock at Dereham, Branch District Pub of the Year in 2023, closed at the end of July.
Barsham Brewery Tap opened in July at the brewery in West Barsham, serving the brewery’s ales on handpump from Friday to Sunday.
The White Heron (formerly the Yare) at Brundall has been sold as part of a package with Broom Boats, who bought and refurbished the pub in 2022.
Sheringham has a new pub, with the Lines End, named as it sits between the ends of two separate railway lines, opening in the old Quarter Deck. The micro pub complements the next door Gallery bar, owned by the same people.
The Crown at Trunch closed at the end of July, citing economic problems. Owners Bateman’s are looking for another tenant.
The Blue Boar at Great Ryburgh closed in the second half of 2022, after tenants brought in by the owners left, citing financial difficulties. The owners then submitted a pre-planning application to turn the pub into flats and housing (this is a way to see what the local planning authority would possibly allow, should an actual application be put forward at a later date).
This prompted locals who were concerned that the last pub in Great Ryburgh might close for good, to form the Save the Blue Boar Inn Steering Group, now known as Ryburgh Community (P) Hub. An Asset of Community Value listing was sought, and was approved by the local council on 28th May this year. The owners appealed, but the listing was upheld.
A supporters meeting was held on 30th July, where Phil Harris of the The Kings Arms, Shouldham, a community pub which has just celebrated its 10th anniversary, spoke to the steering group and over 20 village residents. 20 others sent apologies. Phil complimented them on the progress that the group had made so far, and suggested some next steps, some of which were already underway. Many of those present offered specific skills, professional and practical, and tasks were allocated to various individuals.
Since then, the Blue Boar has been removed from the market by the owners, and hasn’t been running as a pub since March 2023, but continues to operate as a Bed and Breakfast. The group agreed that they will continue to pursue fundraising and events in order to be in a strong position to make an offer if the Blue Boar comes back on the market. Market research has demonstrated that the majority of villagers want a pub and the group are willing to engage in conversation with the owners to try and facilitate its purchase on behalf of the community.
Lesley Weston of the group commented that their emphasis has always been on creating a community hub within the pub, and it was agreed that they would continue to develop this with a series of events at different venues in the village. These events aim to create opportunities to bring people together, to meet and make friends, and to combat isolation and loneliness in addition to raising funds towards the purchase of the Boar.The first fundraiser was held on 9th August with a Pop-up Pub and Food truck. They aim to hold events every 4-6 weeks with as many individuals contributing ideas as possible.
The owners, Jamesa and Laura Lee, have posted a note on social media commenting that some members of the village had treated them with a lack of care and compassion over the saga. They have removed the property from the market on July 1st and currently have no intention of selling, developing or changing the planning use of the property.
From a CAMRA perspective, we would want to see the Blue Boar reopen to operate as a pub. A request to review the use as a Bed & Breakfast only has been lodged with North Norfolk DC to see if there is a breach of planning rules, as currently the public cannot use the premises for drinking.
Another pub has been lost as the Mustard Pot at Whinburgh has been demolished. It had been closed for a couple of years. According to planning applications lodged with Breckland Council the building was unsafe and therefore demolished. The land is likely to become housing according to an article in the local newspaper.
The Angel Gardens, Norwich closed late last year and now has a car sales business operating from the front of the pub. Norwich City Council have been contacted over a possible breach of planning rules.
Plans have been lodged for the second time with Breckland Council to convert once popular pub the Fox & Hounds at Weasenham St Peter, which closed during the pandemic, into housing. CAMRA have objected.
Summer 2024
As reported in the previous edition, the Peasant’s Tavern, previously the Market Tavern, has opened in North Walsham, and is proving popular, with five ales on handpump.
The Maltings Hotel at Weybourne has been closed for some time, but is currently undergoing a redevelopment. According to their website it will feature an ‘open-to-all bar’ when it reopens in summer 2024.
The Village Inn at Little Melton, operated by Mitchells & Butler, closed in February for a makeover, and reopened in March.
The Plough Inn at Marsham has had a £120,000 makeover, with a new bar with four handpumps, new flooring and furniture. The 11 bedrooms have also been refurbished.
The Gull at Framingham Pigot went up for sale by auction, having been closed since September.
The Diplomat at Badersfield, near Coltishall closed in early March, we believe due to cost pressures.
The Barsham Arms at East Barsham closed in January, and is for sale at £650,000.
The Kings Head at Hoveton reopened in March after a £1.4m refurb, including a completely new bar area and an outside bar for dogs!
The Sole & Heel at Rackheath, which has been closed for nearly two years, has been sold to Marcus Pearcey, who also operates the Oak Terrace at the Oaklands Hotel in Norwich and the East Street Cafe in Brundall. Previous owners Wellington Pub Company, who own around 800 pubs, had tried to find new tenants, but failed to find any, no doubt due to the high level of rent they were asking. They don’t often sell their freeholds – perhaps this is a change of policy.
A meeting of the local community was held in April at the Marlpit Community Centre, to discuss the possibility of launching a community bid for the Gatehouse on Dereham Rd, should it come up for sale. The pub closed last summer because of the death of long-time landlord and character John Bates. The future of the pub is unknown, but it was registered as an Asset of Community Value in October last year. The Norfolk Wildlife Trust are also interested in a community buyout, presumably because of the land at the rear of the pub going down to the river.
The Kings Head at Hethersett closed in April for (another!) refurb, reopening later in the month.
The Bell at Marlingford and the Robert Kett at Wymondham both reopened in April.
Victoria Macdonald has left the Cellar House at Eaton after 11 years at the helm. The Stonegate-owned pub closed briefly at the end of April, and is now run by Simon and Jenny Turner, who also run the Boars at Spooner Row and the King’s Head at New Buckenham. The couple are planning to open a ‘signature’ restaurant in May, and have landscaped the gardens at the pub.
The Maltsters at Ranworth reopened in April under new lessee Steve Gray, who runs The Granary restaurant opposite the pub. The Punch Pub Company-owned pub had been closed since December.
Greene King pub the Otter at Thorpe Marriott is to be renamed the Mill, and moved from being a managed pub to a Hive franchise. A major refurb and rebranding is planned, including a new garden featuring a covered pergola and outdoor TV screens, fewer fruit machines, and the darts relocated to the back of the pub. Under the Hive model, the operator pays £5,000 up front, and receives a salary of £20,000 plus an unspecified percentage of turnover, from which they have to pay all wages.
The Woodman at Catton has been taken over by Snug Inns, who run eight other pubs in the area.
The Norfolk Lurcher has been renamed the Barking Buck and had a sensitive refurb, and a new Asian-inspired menu. The extensive gardens are also being given a makeover, and may be open by the time you read this.
Colin and Will Keatley, owners of the Fat Cat in West End St, have opened a new bar, the Mad Cat in a converted printing services shop next door to the Fat Cat. The bar is separate from the Fat Cat as far as customers are concerned, but staff will have access to both premises via a storage area. The stripped-down look is similar to the other Fat Cat venues, but with a modern twist, and a bar front featuring beer casks.
And to finish on more good news, another completely new pub is opening in the branch area, making four in the last six months (with the Porters Arms and the Hop Rocket, reported in the last edition). Bier Draak on King Street, between Prince of Wales Road and Rose Lane, opened in May, and is the latest venture for the owners of Sir Toby’s Beers on Norwich Market, who also run the Stanford Arms and a bar in the East Point Centre, both in Lowestoft. The new venue, formerly a cocktail and tapas bar, will feature Belgian and German beers on up to ten draught lines, and a wide range of traditional continental bottled beers.
Lacons Brewery are looking to buy some of the pubs the original Lacons owned back in the 1960s, before they were taken over by Whitbread. When the brewery closed in 1968, Lacons owned over 300 pubs across the country, often decorated with the famous falcon sculptures, many of which can still be seen. In May they bought the Artichoke at Broome, which at the time of writing is expected to reopen shortly.
Winter 2023
Some good news to start with, but a number of closures to report, unfortunately.
The Green Dragon at Wymondham has reopened under the management of the White Hart, in the same town, after a short period of closure.
The Pleasure Boat at Hickling has been bought by the Norfolk Wildlife Trust, who already own several properties around Hickling Broad. They plan to renovate it and add facilities before reopening later in the year.
The City Pub Group, operators of the St Andrews Brewhouse and 40+ pubs across the south of England and Wales, has been sold to Young’s for £162m, valuing their pubs at an incredible average of nearly £4m. Young’s sold their brewing business and brands several years ago, and will now operate nearly 300 pubs.
Frank’s Bar in Bedford St, which closed early last year, has reopened as Dick’s Bar.
Mark White, owner of The Brewery Tap on Lawson Rd, has taken over Oliver’s, a bar cafe on Unthank Rd, and reopened it after a refurb as a craft beer house, now named Hop Rocket.
The Market Tavern at North Walsham has been renamed the Peasant’s Tavern, and will reopen in late spring, with a range of real ales available. Charlie Holden, cellar manager at the Kings Head, Norwich will be moving to the pub, owned by a local businessman.
The Porters Arms opened in Aylsham in December. The micropub, a former telescope shop in Red Lion St, is owned by Emily Bridges and Elliot Dransfield, who also have the Malt & Mardle in Norwich.
The Norfolk Lurcher at Colton has reopened after a period of closure. Long-term owners John and Alison Lainchbury left the pub in December 2022 after over 15 years.
The Ram at Brundall has reopened under the management of David Swannack, who ran the pub between 2018 and 2020. The pub, which only reopened in July, had closed again in November.
The White Horse at Cromer has reopened, with the new lessee promising to keep it as a proper pub. The pub closed last August after the owners, pubco Stonegate, increased the rent by £16,000, forcing out the previous tenant who had run the pub for 18 years.
Sammy’s Bar & Grill at East Runton closed for a major refurb at the end of last year, and is expected to reopen in summer, reverting to its former name of the White Horse.
The Kings Head at Hoveton closed for 6 weeks for a £1.4m revamp by owners Greene King.
The Dog at Ludham is closed until March 7th for a winter break.
And the closures I mentioned at the start are: the New Inn at Rockland St Mary (in November); the Bull at Little Walsingham, the Maltsters at Ranworth (December); and the Marlingford Bell, the Robert Kett at Wymondham and the Artichoke at Broome (January). Hopefully at least some of these will reopen – most of them are the only pub in their village, and have been excellent pubs in the past.
Autumn 2023
Garden on Muspole St, better known as the Woolpack or Woolpack Yard, reopened in July as the Weavers Arms, under the management of the owners of Yard in Pottergate. The pub is now serving three or four real ales, and is open until 11.30 all week and 1.30am Fridays and Saturdays.
The Kings Head at Hethersett reopened in July.
The Black Lion at Walsingham reopened in August under the management of Andy & Izzie from the Carpenters Arms at Wighton, who hope to bring the hotel “back to its former self”, as a bar that welcomes all and serves local ales, fantastic beers and wines, with a restaurant that serves hearty, fresh pub grub.
Micawbers apparently closed late last year.
The Kings Head at Brooke has reopened after a long period of closure, with a major refurbishment, adding a small bar at the rear and a more drinker-friendly layout. Owned and run by a local
The Market Tavern at North Walsham closed in February following the death of the owner, but may have reopened by the time you read this. The Black Swan in the same town has been taken over by a Community Interest Company, New Stages, run by Joseph Ballard, and will be run as a not-for-profit pub and theatre venue. No jokes about all Stonegate pubs being not-for-profit please!
The Golden Fleece at Wells-next-the-Sea will become a Punch managed house from November, after the company refused to renew the lease. Since a major refurbishment a few years ago the pub has been very well run, and stocked three ales from Moon Gazer. We hope this will continue, but would not be surprised if they are replaced by national brands.
Malt & Mardle owners Elliot and Emily are to open a new pub, the Porters Arms, in Aylsham towards the end of the year. Starting small as a micropub, there’s room for later expansion.
The Walpole Arms at Itteringham reopened in August.
The Anchor at Morston has had a refurb since we last visited, and the small bar moved into what was the restaurant, and enlarged somewhat. The restaurant is still in the same room, but better use has been made of the space. Three ales on sale, two from Lacons and Woodforde’s Wherry. There’s more seating in front of the pub, as what were parking spaces have been incorporated into the garden.
The Royal Oak at Bintree reopened in September, after being taken on by new owners. The pub closed in 2020 during the COVID pandemic. The pub has undergone a major refurb at the hands of new owners the Wilkinson family. The restoration of the 17C building has added an outside terrace seating area for live music, and a camping pitch with space for five caravans.
The White Lodge at Attleborough should have reopened under new owners Snug Bars & Inns, who have several other pubs in the area, after a few weeks closed in September/October.
The Kings Head at Blofield reopened in summer, under the management of chef brothers Richard and Stephen Hogg, who have introduced a more food-focused offer, while still retaining the pub as a pub.
The Green Man at Little Snoring reopened in September as the Olive Tree, after a long period of closure. New owners Barry and Michelle Driver plan to make the pub a European bistro and bar, with a tapas-inpired menu and Sunday lunches.
Saul Press, owner of the Beer Hatch in Tombland – a repurposed red phone box! – is opening the Beer Hatch Bottle Shop in the old Phillips Cameras shop on Fye Bridge Street, next to the Ribs of Beef.
The Coach & Horses on Thorpe Road will be replacing their gazebo with four smaller awnings over the outdoor drinking space, previously the car park, which was introduced during COVID. Which should mean we’ll be able to see the lovely old building the pub is housed in from the street again!
The Angel Gardens on Angel Rd closed at the end of September. We understand it will reopen after renovations which are planned to take three or four months.
The Longe Arms at Spixworth closed in September and reopened after renovation in October, under the new management of local couple Dan and Carly Jones.
The Surrey on Surrey St reopened a couple of months ago as a cafe-bar. There’s no real ale at present, but it is a pub again.
Summer 2023
The White Lion in Oak St has been voted East Anglian Cider Pub of the Year and Norfolk Pub of the Year! Congratulations to Oscar and the team – the pub will now progress to the Super Regional and Regional rounds of the respective competitions.
The Gatehouse on Dereham Rd closed in April due to illness.
The Freemasons Arms in Hall Rd reopened in April, and the York, which reduced hours early in the year, closed in April and reopened shortly afterwards in May with new tenants.
The York in Leicester St reopened in May under new managers Wendy Rose and Joe Kelly. The pub will be opening on Wednesday and Thursday from 4-11pm, Friday and Saturday from noon-11pm, and Sunday noon-9pm.
The Prince of Wales in Prince of Wales Rd has reopened as Barcadia, a bar featuring arcade games, with one real ale we believe.
The Crown at Smallburgh reopened in April, three days a week.
The Green Dragon at Wymondham reopened in April.
The Star at Lessingham reopened in July, under the management of the owners of the freehold, Mick Yaxley and Sue Winter, winners of Norwich & District Rural Pub of the Year when they last ran the pub themselves.
The Sole & Heel at Rackheath, which closed last summer, remains empty, with owners Wellington unable to find a new lessee, despite the growth of the village around it, although the asking rent of £37,000 per year is also ridiculously high.
The residents of Salhouse have gone from no pubs to two in the last couple of months, with the Bell reopening as the Stag after a £200,000 refurbishment, and the Lodge reopening under the Colchester family banner, again after a major refurbishment.
Darby’s in Swanton Morley has reopened after three months closed, under the management of new tenants. The pub is owned by Steve Garner, also owner of Norwich & District branch District Pub of the Year, the Cock at Dereham, who ran it until January this year.
The Kings Head at Blofield closed in April, and was reported to be reopening as a restaurant, but another Kings Head, in Coltishall, reopened after the lease was sold by long-time owner Kevin Gardner to a trio of local friends, who will continue to operate the pub as primarily food-led.
Black Boys at Aldborough has changed its name to the Cricketers on the Green.
Dunstable Arms at Sheringham has reopened as the Fishmongers Tavern, a seafood restaurant and bar, specialising in fish supplied by the owners, who are local fishmongers. The house beer is brewed by Moon Gazer.
The Blue Bell at Langham has reopened after a refurbishment, having been taken over by Sam Cutmore-Scott, whose family also run the Harper Hotel in the same village, and the Anchor at Morston.
The Walpole Arms at Itteringham, which has been closed for over a year, should have reopened by the time you read this, under the same management as the Gyre & Gimble cocktail bar, above the Strangers Tavern in Norwich.
The Walnut Tree Shades in Old Post Office Ct reopened in June after an internal refurbishment. Live music will be hosted upstairs, and the beer range will be similar to the range under the previous tenants
Spring 2023
Writing at the start of April, at the end of a quarter which we expected to be disastrous for pubs, I think we can say that the period, while difficult, has been better than expected for a number of publicans I’ve spoken to. However, we have had a number of pubs, in particular those owned by the still-rapacious pubcos, closing and looking for new tenants.
Three such pubs, all owned by Stonegate, are the York in Leicester St, which reduced its opening hours and stopped serving Sunday roasts in January, citing the cost of living crisis; the Edith Cavell on Tombland, which closed in March and was put up for rent at the ridiculous amount of £42,000 pa (but will be reopening by the time you read this); and the Gibraltar Gardens in Heigham St, which closed in December and reopened in February.
Good news for fans of music venue the Brickmakers in Sprowston Rd, which reopened in January under the management of Claire and Dale Brooks, who also still run the Walnut Tree Shades in Old Post Office Court. Stonegate, owners of both pubs, are looking for new tenants for the latter, as Clair and Dale are leaving in May.
The Freemasons Arms on Hall Road closed late last year, and has reopened recently under new management, but I’m afraid the Surrey Tavern, Surrey Street has been converted to a cafe.
Frank’s Bar in Bedford St closed after 15 years, with the owners citing problems with renewing the lease, in addition to COVID and the cost of living crisis, and the tenant of the Berstrete Gates left at the end of February, with the pub now being run by the (independent) owner.
Planning permission was granted in February to convert the Windmill in Knox Road to housing. The pub had been closed since COVID struck in March 2020, and was deemed unviable. This was mainly because part of the car park was sold off and converted to housing some years ago, hiding the pub from the main road, and not helped by the fact that the sign was removed, contrary to planning permission requirements! The pub was marketed at a ridiculous figure of £375,000 freehold, despite the surveyors and valuers stating that it was not viable as a pub! But despite this charade, the City Council approved the conversion and we’ve lost yet another pub.
The Golden Star in Colegate changed hands in March, with long-term publican Lily LeGrice moving on after over 20 years at the pub – on behalf of the Norwich & District Branch I’d like to thank Lil for everything she’s done over the years for the cause of real ale and pubs, and wish her well for her future plans.
The Trafford Arms in Grove Rd closed for a couple of weeks in March for a refurbishment, with new flooring, seating and some tall tables at the rear.
Darbys at Swanton Morley closed in late January, with the leaseholders, who also run the Cock at Dereham, stating that increased energy prices, the “bleak” general economic outlook, and the cost of living crisis as causes. They were hopeful that a new leaseholder could be found.
The Blue Bell at Langham closed in January, and the White Hart at Rockland St Mary reopened after closing in January for a refurbishment which had included a new bar, furniture and opening up the bar and dining room.
The Green Dragon at Wymondham and the Kings Head at Hethersett, both run by the same operator, closed in February, with owners Admiral Taverns and Stonegate respectively looking for new tenants. The Green Dragon has since been taken over by Victoria and Grahame MacDonald, who also run the Cellar House in Norwich and the Old Ram at Tivetshall St Mary. The pub was run by Grahame’s 5 times great grandfather, Caudell Clarke, from 1822-1850, so the pub is back in the family’s hands after 173 years!
More good news for Aylsham, which has a new pizza restaurant and bar in the old Post Office, appropriately named Stamp! We happened to be in Aylsham at the end of March on a campaign coach trip, which was visiting the Unicorn next door, and discovered the bar, which has a huge pizza oven behind one of the old counters, and a square bar serving a Wildcraft ‘house’ beer on tap, plus cans from Duration.
The restaurant at the Coldham Hall Tavern in Surlingham has reopened after a winter refurb, and we believe the Black Lion at Walsingham has changed hands – any information welcome!
The Eccles Tap (or Old Railway Tavern to give it its correct name) has closed following the death of the owner Pat. Our condolences go to her family, including son Rowland who is hoping to reopen the pub at some point.
The Star at Lessingham has closed, we believe the owners are looking for someone to take on the lease at this former Branch Rural Pub of the Year.
The Butchers Arms at East Ruston, which closed in March 2020, is open Friday and Saturday evenings, and is offering a takeaway service for food including Sunday roasts.
Pubs of the Year
Norwich & District Branch have three Pub of the Year awards, the City Pub of the Year for pubs in Norwich, the District Pub of the Year for pubs outside Norwich, and the overall Branch Pub of the Year, decided between the winners of the City and District awards. The Branch also award a Cider Pub of the Year and a Club of the Year.
For 2023, the awards go to:
The White Lion in Oak St, Norwich: City and overall Branch Pub of the Year, and Cider Pub of the Year – the first time a pub has won both the Pub and Cider Pub awards in the same year!
The Cock at Dereham: District Pub of the Year
The Bob Carter Centre at Drayton: Club of the Year.
The White Lion and the Bob Carter Centre now go forward to the County rounds of their respective competitions – good luck to them, and congratulations to all the winners!
Winter 2022
County news first this time, and in Salhouse we have news of both pubs. The Lodge has been sold to Colchester Inns, who also run four other pubs in the county, including the Recruiting Sergeant at Buxton, and the Bell has new owners who plan to refurbish the pub and reopen it shortly.
The Gallery Bistro in Fakenham has been refurbished and renamed the Red Lion Lounge, a reference to its original name, in the 17C, of the Red Lion. Open from Wednesday to Sunday, the building used to house Council offices, but now offers a stylish Art Deco interior, and food every day open.
The Yare at Brundall has been sold to Broom Boats by partners Mike DiMarco and Paul Lancaster, who have owned it since 1978, and renamed the White Heron, following a complete refurbishment. The pub now has a cooler, more modern look, but retains some of the old furniture and features. A sports bar with pool table has been added, the restaurant opened at the end of last year?, and Broom intend to develop the whole area in the near future. Four handpumps on the bar, dispensing two beers from Adnams, Woodforde’s Wherry and one from Humpty Dumpty, plus bottled cider from Norfolk Raider. The pub is cashless, with all payments by card.
In Norwich, the Birdcage on Pottergate, which has had several names in the past, having been known as the Morning Star, Brown Derby and Pottergate Tavern at various times, has reopened with another new name, the Drawing Rooms, following a several-hundred-thousand pound refurbishment by owners Greene King. The pub is now a cocktail bar, and sister pub to the Ten Bells and the Wildman in Norwich, and the Hero at Burnham Overy and the George & Dragon at Cley, all operated by Pete Harvey and Frances Chisholm. At our visit in November two ales were available on handpump, from Castle Rock and St Austell, and there are plans for live music.
Jurnet’s Bar, located in a mediaeval crypt below Wensum Lodge in King Street, which closed during the pandemic, has been forced to close permanently, after structural issues caused by water ingress were discovered. The bar has been a ‘hidden gem’ in Norwich for over 40 years, playing host to many live bands, and will be sadly missed.
The Steam Packet in Crown Road has been purchased freehold by Ellen Grove and partner Jacob Emerson, who have carried out an excellent refurbishment, and reopened the pub in December with two ales on handpump. An upstairs restaurant / function room is planned shortly.
The Dog House on St George’s St, has been taken over by the team behind the Rosebery and the Marlborough, and reopened in November, with real ale(s?) on draught expected to be available shortly, for the first time in many years.
Another major refurb in Norwich, this time at the Boundary, Aylsham Road, which closed for a month late last year. The pub interior has been completely revamped, and new screens installed.
Congratulations to Paul Anderson-Cowles, landlord of the Brick Kilns at Plumstead for 50 years! Paul bought the pub back in 1972, and has constantly refurbished and extended it since, changing it from a small wet-led pub to a much bigger pub with plenty of seating for diners.
And finally, a lot of pubs are reducing their hours, or even closing temporarily, this winter – if you know of any, please do let me know so I can keep WhatPub up to date. You can either use the feedback options on the pub’s entry, or email me on pubs@norwich.camra.org.uk.
Autumn 2022
The Wildman in Bedford St closed in July for a £5,000 refurb to speed up cocktail service.
Frank and Jo Butt, both retired teachers, have big plans for the Angel at Loddon, which they intend to refurbish with a ‘crafted’ interior, as well as converting the coach house at the rear into a microbrewery and adding 4 en-suite double bedrooms.
The Coach & Horses in Thorpe Road now has a pizza oven in the yard at the rear of the pub. At our visit in July, in addition to the range of Chalk Hill beers there was also a guest from Three Blind Mice.
The Steam Packet has been sold for around £325,000, having been closed for several months.
A planning application to convert the Buck on Thorpe Road to various other uses, and build units on the car park, one of which was apparently to be a pub, has been granted. Another pub lost to the rapacious pubcos.
Warwick Street Social was taken over by Nick De’Ath in August 2022 and reopened under its original name, the Warwick Arms, as a “straightforward” pub. It closed in late 2021 due to issues caused by the pandemic, and was previously a cocktail bar.
The Canary & Linnet at Little Fransham closed in August.
The Gatherers, formerly the Woolpack Yard, has changed its name to Garden, and become a vegan cocktail bar.
The Crown at Trunch has taken over the functions of the local newsagents and Post Office, which closed in August, and hope to construct a small shop at the rear of the premises to stock groceries.
David Roylance, who took over the Stanley, Magdalen Rd, in 2020 has taken on the Crown Point Tavern at Trowse Newton, just outside the city. The pub closed for a refurb for a couple of weeks in June, and reopened with a new in-house kitchen and decor.
The Crown at Colkirk reopened in April, and is now serving three ales, from Wolf and other local breweries.
In the last edition, I believed that the Vernon Arms at Southrepps had been sold, however it turns out that the sale fell through at the last moment, and Paul & Debbie Briggs remain in charge – apologies to all concerned.
An application to convert the Grillhouse restaurant, formerly the Trowel & Hammer, in St Stephens Road, to housing has been refused. The pub has, however, already been lost, through a loophole which allows pubs to add some form of accommodation, often using what would have been the landlord’s flat, and then convert to a restaurant, on the basis that they’re an ‘inn’, and not a pub. This then makes it easier to convert completely to residential use, as there is no special protection for restaurants. (In the case of the Grillhouse, the application was only refused on technical grounds, and will no doubt succeed once modified.) This also appears to be happening at another pub on the North Norfolk coast, and unfortunately the local council appear happy to collude with this practice, by refusing to prevent the clear change of use.
Planning permission to convert the upper floors of the Heath House on Gertrude Road to a house of multiple occupation has been withdrawn.
The Green Man at Rackheath has closed again, and is available for lease.
Some happy news to end on! Claire and Dale Brooks, who have been at the helm of one of Norwich’s few remaining music pubs, the Walnut Tree Shades in Old Post Office Court for 12 years, will be taking over perhaps the best-known Norwich music pub, the Brickmakers on Sprowston Road, in January. Current operators Pam and Charley South and Emma Rose, who have built the pub’s reputation over the last 20 years, announced that they were leaving on social media in August. The move will see the range of real ales available at the ‘Brickie’ increased as trade permits, to include beers from current Walnut suppliers such as Mr Winter’s, Grain and Moon Gazer The future of the Walnut is to be announced ‘soon’, but it is believed that owners Stonegate are looking for a tenant with similar passions for music and real ale.
The Anchor at Morston has been bought by the owners of The Harper, a luxury hotel in Langham, and was open until the end of summer. It will be refurbished over the winter and reopen in Spring next year with, according to the hotel website, a ‘top-notch selection of local ales’!
Summer 2022
The Feathers at Holt has been taken over by the Chestnut Group, which has around twenty pubs across East Anglia. Other Norfolk pubs which are run by the group include the Lawns, also in Holt, the Wiveton Bell, the Globe at Wells-next-the-Sea, and the Maltings at Weybourne, all acquired in the last year or two.
The Kings Head at Hethersett has been taken over by Tickle’s Taverns, who also run the Green Dragon at Wymondham.
The Chestnut Tree on Reepham Rd has reverted to its former name of the Bull, following a £479k refurbishment by owners Stonegate, who have now converted it to a managed house. The pub reopened under the new name in July.
Also converted to managed is the Three Swallows in Cley, which reopened in June, after a £200k refurb by Punch Taverns. The pub now has an outdoor bar with a pizza oven. The beer range appears to be limited to Landlord and Doom Bar.
The Belle Vue, St Phillips Rd has reopened under new management, who are intending to bring back food as soon as possible, alongside a jukebox, pool table and dart board.
The Alby Horseshoes Inn reopened under new owners in July, and will be offering food from August.
The Crown at Sheringham reopened at the end of March after a major refurbishment, initially from Thursday to Saturday only.
The Yare at Brundall has been bought by local luxury boatbuilderBroom Boats, and will reopen under a new name this summer, after a significant refurbishment, as a pub restaurant for the local community and visitors.
This is the sister pub to the Ram in Brundall and is managed by Katie and her team. They have Green King IPA and a changing Timothy Taylor ale as regular ales plus one varying guest ale, and serve a wide range of food 12- 8.45 Mon to Sat and 12-6 on Sunday.
After a few years as a Thai restaurant, the Kings Head at Blofield will return to operating as a pub, managed by the same team as the Ram at Brundall. They will be stocking two permanent ales from Greene King and Timothy Taylor, and one guest beer, and serving food every day, including Sunday roasts and specials.
The Swan at Gressenhall reopened under community ownership in May, serving drinks first, with food to follow in the autumn. The pub is being run by the same team running the Crown at Trunch and the Chequers at Hainford, which they took over in October.
The Vernon Arms at South Repps was sold in May, with long-serving hosts Paul & Debbie Briggs leaving after several years at the pub. The new owners are also involved in the Wheatsheaf at West Beckham.
In North Norfolk the Three Swallows at Cley and the Anchor at Morston were closed at the time of writing – the former apparently for renovation, but no reason known for the latter.
The Fox & Hounds at Weasenham St Peter, which closed in March 2020, has planning permission for a house in the car park and is up for sale.
The Kings Head at Acle has undergone a complete transformation and is now The Barns at the Kings Head, with a new “funky” decor in the bars, a street food menu, a patio garden with flowers and a barbecue, and seven new “boutique” rooms. There’s also an adjoining pottery barn, and a planned ‘party barn’.
In Norwich, the team running the York in Leicester St have taken over the Edith Cavell in Tombland, replacing Ben Edwards who has moved his Prime restaurant from the pub to St Giles St. Andrew McNeil, heading the team, told the EEN that the pub would be a cafe/bistro from 9am each morning, and in the evening would offer fine dining upstairs and tapas downstairs.
Ian Warren has left the Angel Gardens in Angel Road after 35 years at the pub, and retired after over 50 years in the trade.As one of the pioneers of real ale in Norwich, his contribution over the years has been invaluable, and we wish him well in his retirement. The pub has been taken over by Jamie ????? and reopened after a brief closure.
The Malt & Mardle in Magdalen St is the latest in a string of pubs to apply for extra seating on the pavement, extending across the front of their premises and the shop next door.
Two pubs (at least) are celebrating anniversaries this year – the Plough in St Benedicts St is 200 years old this year, and the Beehive on Leopold Road is 100. The Plough has a new sign and mural, while the Beehive commissioned a celebratory beer from Green Jack.
The Alby Horseshoes should have reopened, under new owners, by the time you’re reading this.
Spring 2022
The Crown at Colkirk near Fakenham closed ‘until further notice’ last December. A freehouse since the 1700s, it was bought for the benefit of the villagers, with funds given by a local farmer in his will. Does this make it one of the first ever community owned pubs? It's changed hands many times since then, but perhaps the local community could help secure its future.
The Victoria Inn, Holkham has been converted to a restaurant, as we discovered recently having walked three miles along the Norfolk Coastal Path from Wells, only to find it closed! Their Facebook page says the bar is open for residents and diners only.
The Butchers Arms in East Ruston has been closed since March 2020 and has planning approved for seven holiday lodges. Part of the conditions state that ‘the units of holiday accommodation hereby permitted shall be used for commercial holiday accommodation purposes only, ancillary to and connection with the use of the public house’; so we hope that the pub reopens soon.
The Alby Horseshoes has remained closed since being sold last year. The local community are in the process of raising an ACV to hopefully add some protection to this local asset.
The Queens Head in Thurlton has reopened and stocking local ales and home-cooked food. Now run by Moss & Co who also owner several pubs in Suffolk, its open every day from 12pm with food served lunchtimes and evenings, Wednesday to Saturday, plus Sunday 12-4pm.
The Marlborough in Marlborough Road, Norwich has just reopened after a refurb and will now be a sister pub to the Rosebery. The owners of both pubs are Jessie Dodd, Tim Dodd and James Bartrum.
The George at Dereham has reopened under new management, with extended hours from 10am daily, Sunday to Thursday until 11pm, Friday and Saturday until 12am. A grand opening event was held on 15 March with Dereham mayor Stuart Green cutting the ribbon! They have 8 hand pumps with rotating cask ales. Their new food offering includes a bar menu, snacks and sandwiches, grill menu and Sunday roasts.
The Ferry Inn in Horning has been taken over by Michael Baldwin and Mike Wilson, the owners of Bank House Hotel and The Wenns Chop & Ale House in King’s Lynn. They hope to add a new bar, restaurant and bedrooms to be able to welcome overnight guests.
The Horse & Groom in Tunstead has been taken over by Alison Brewster and her family who also run the Ferry Inn in Stokesby. They are giving the pub a makeover and will be offering homemade cakes and chocolates, in addition to the usual pub food and drink.
The current tenants of 20 years at the Brickmakers in Norwich have decided to not renew the lease when it ends in January 2023. Owners Stonegate are now looking to put a plan in place to keep this popular venue for local music talent.