Searching for the quintessential British winter escape? Look no further than a celebrated Norfolk establishment that has just been crowned one of the finest pubs in the country. The Gunton Arms, nestled within a sprawling deer park near Cromer, offers far more than just a pint, blending rustic charm with high art and exceptional cuisine for a unique getaway experience.
More Than Just a Local: An Art-Filled Sanctuary
This is no ordinary village pub. The Gunton Arms occupies a restored farmhouse on the edge of an 18th-century estate, surrounded by a 1,000-acre deer park. Following a meticulous renovation by art dealer Ivor Braka, it opened its doors in 2011, bringing with it an extraordinary collection of contemporary art featuring works by Tracey Emin and Damien Hirst. Its distinctive style, likened to the luxury of Liberty department store, recently earned it a prestigious spot in The Good Food Guide's top 20 list of best British pubs earlier this year.
Feasting by the Fire and Luxurious Lodgings
The heart of the pub is the Elk Room restaurant, named for the giant Irish elk skull presiding over the open fire. Here, chef Stuart Tattersall crafts a menu deeply rooted in Norfolk's bounty. Dishes showcase venison from the surrounding park, beef from the Blickling Estate, and seafood from the nearby coast, including a signature Cromer crab pasta.
During a recent visit, meals began with fried cod cheeks accompanied by a zesty caper mayonnaise and a vibrant plate of beets with Binham blue cheese. Mains featured a flawlessly fire-cooked sirloin steak and a special of roasted halibut. The experience extends to 16 beautifully appointed bedrooms. The Rocksavage suite, for instance, impresses with its elegant decor, marble bathroom, roll-top tub, and thoughtful touches like a Nespresso machine and Norfolk Natural Living toiletries.
Exploring the Royal Norfolk Coast
The Gunton Arms serves as an ideal base for discovering North Norfolk's stunning coastline. The picturesque town of Cromer is just a ten-minute drive away. A short journey further leads to the breathtaking Holkham Beach, renowned for its vast expanse of sand and towering dunes. This iconic spot is famously favoured by the royal family due to its proximity to the Sandringham Estate. Guests can also explore the deer park from a respectful distance, particularly during the rutting season, perhaps while enjoying a glass of wine in the pub garden.
With rooms starting from £145 per night, The Gunton Arms successfully marries the comfort of a traditional pub with the sophistication of a boutique hotel and a destination restaurant, solidifying its status as a must-visit retreat on the British culinary and travel map.
