Before and After the Pub: A Few of Our Favourite Ways to Spend A Summer's Day

May 27
3 min read

A good pub stop has a way of shaping a whole day! It might be breakfast before heading off to explore, lunch in the middle of an adventure, or drinks waiting at the end of a day on the coast. Across the region, we’re lucky to have some of East Anglia’s best days out right on our doorstep.

Breakfast at The Chequers, then Houghton Hall

Start with breakfast at The Chequers before heading inland to Houghton Hall. This summer, the hall and grounds are hosting a major exhibition of sculptures by celebrated British artist Lynn Chadwick, with large-scale works placed throughout the gardens and parkland.

After coffee and a bite to eat to set you up for the morning, spend a few hours wandering one of Norfolk’s grandest estates before making your way back to the coast.

Photographs curtesy of @flintcottage, Houghton Hall and Visit North Norfolk

Morning on the beach, cocktails at The Globe

Some days call for very little planning! Start with a morning on the sandy beach; pastel beach huts, miles of coastline and sea air all included.

Then head back into town - walking along the harbour - and settle into the courtyard at The Globe. Order cocktails, the wood-fired pizza oven may be fired up or grab some seafood and let the afternoon take care of itself.

Lunch at The Red Lion, then walk Constable Country

East Bergholt sits at the heart of Constable Country, making The Red Lion the ideal starting point for an outdoorsy afternoon.

Lunch first, then head out along riverside footpaths and country lanes that inspired some of John Constable’s most recognisable works with our Constable 250 walking map. Pass Flatford Mill, follow the River Stour and take in landscapes that feel right out of the paintings.

Ride the North Norfolk Railway, then drinks at The Maltings

Climb aboard the North Norfolk Railway and spend the morning travelling through some of the county’s best coastal scenery.

Then head to The Maltings for a drink on the terrace, it’s the perfect follow-on to a slower-paced Norfolk afternoon. If you're staying for a while, take a seat in The Grain Store or head to the Games Room.

Melford Hall in the morning, The Black Lion barbecue in the afternoon

Long Melford makes a good day out at any time of year, but summer weekends are particularly strong!

Start with Melford Hall and a wander through one of Suffolk’s best-known historic houses and gardens before heading to The Black Lion. Throughout summer, Sundays mean barbecues in the garden; good food, something cold to drink and no need to rush anywhere.

Bury St Edmunds, then Sundown Sessions at The Weeping Willow

Spend the day exploring Bury St Edmunds. Wander through the Abbey Gardens, stop by the Cathedral and browse the independent shops along Abbeygate Street.

Then make your way to The Weeping Willow, just a ten minute drive away. Every Friday night throughout summer, Sundown Sessions bring live music to the terrace alongside the Garden Menu; it's a good way to round off the week!

Take the coastal route, then lunch at The Wiveton Bell

The Norfolk coast rewards taking the longer route. Drive through villages, stop at beaches and pull over when something catches your eye. If you're travelling east from Old Hunstanton, you'll pass the likes of RSPB Titchwell Marsh, park up at Holkham Beach, stop by the quaint Stiffkey Stores and look out for seals.

When lunchtime arrives, head to The Wiveton Bell. Surrounded by countryside and close to the coast, it makes a fitting stop in the middle of a Norfolk day out. Take a look at their spring menu or new lunch menu to take your fancy.

Fish & chips at The Ship, then Thorington Theatre

Start by the Suffolk coast with fish and chips (naturally) at The Ship in Dunwich before heading on to Thorington Theatre.

Hidden within woodland near the coast, the open-air theatre hosts an eclectic programme throughout summer. As settings go, it’s hard to beat.

Sometimes the pub is the destination. Other times, it’s what turns a good day into a great one.

Whether you’re building a weekend itinerary or simply deciding what to do on a sunny afternoon, there’s plenty waiting just beyond the pub door.

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