National Pub & Bar of the Year 2026

The Gunton Arms, Norwich

Opened October 2011, The Gunton Arms is a traditional pub with 16 bedrooms in an extensive historic park near Cromer in north Norfolk.

While locals and visitors alike can always pop in for a pint and a game of pool, it’s 100% worth sticking around for food. Leading the kitchen is Stuart Tattersall (ex-head chef at Mark Hix), who cooks from local ingredients, including venison from the surrounding deer park.

It ticks all of the ‘perfect pub’ boxes through its roaring fire grills, locally sourced food, friendly front-of-house and overall design. The venue blends rustic charm with contemporary art and eccentric luxury.

Step inside and admire its atmospheric interiors, featuring works by Tracey Emin and Damien Hirst, alongside cosy rooms designed by Robert Kime. The pub’s relaxed yet sophisticated character makes it a standout destination for locals, food lovers, weekend escapes and long countryside lunches.