A beautiful old inn which has been offering guests shelter for close to 400 years has been judged the best pub to stay in.
The Gin Trap Inn is a historic, dog-friendly pub, situated just a stone’s throw from the scenic North Norfolk coast in Ringstead near Hunstanton. Since 1668 the inn has been opening its doors to travellers who’ve made their way across the bleak tundra of the Norfolk Broads to some of the finest and still unspoiled coastline in the UK, which boasts Blue Flag beaches such as West Runton, Cromer and Sheringham.
Today there are 13 bedrooms to choose from, each coming with antique furnishings, fine textiles and a comfy bed to kip down on for the night. The charm of the lodgings were enough for the pub to scoop the top spot in The Times and Sunday Times’ Best Places to Stay awards this year.
The Gin Trap was also recognised for its “imaginative dishes showcasing the superb local seafood, game and veg”, which has won the venue’s restaurant three AA Rosettes. The pub still retains its roots as a 17th-century coaching inn, with the bar area serving a more casual menu while being separate from the dining room.
“This is without doubt the best pub food I’ve ever eaten. Me and my brother both had the duck leg, hash brown, fried egg and pineapple relish from the bar menu, it was something to behold – incredible. The side dishes were also delicious. To go with the incredible food, there’s a lovely atmosphere, friendly staff, good selection of drinks, dog friendly, a selection of board game in the bar area – you simply have to go if you’re in the local area,” one very enthusiastic review wrote on Tripadvisor.
Another happy customer added: “We have just come back from an amazing weekend away. Fabulous food, attentive staff and cosy accommodation. It was just perfect.”
If you fancy staying in the hotel and seeing what the fuss is about, the cheapest room available over the next month is the Botanist, which costs £165 for one night with two guests entitled to breakfast in the morning. “Beautiful high ceiling, exposed beams and a king size brass bed. The Botanist is traditionally and tastefully decorated with a sprawling en-suite which includes a free standing, cast iron bath and a separate shower. This room is located upstairs in the Inn,” the pub tempts on its website.
For those looking for a new part of the UK to explore, then the seaside village of Broad Haven in Pembrokeshire is a good bet. The coastal spot has spectacular beach views, rolling hills and wide open spaces to enjoy as you go. It’s like you’ve started your holiday before you’re even there. Our reporter Lee recently checked it out.
Another cracker is Breckon beach, on Scotland’s Isle of Yell, which has been ranked the world’s third best beach thanks to its powdery sands, crystalline waters and lush emerald green fields that form its backdrop.
Source: Mirror
