HOTEL OF THE WEEK

SCULTHORPE MILL

Where and why

As the name suggests, this country pub began life as a watermill. It was built atop the River Wensum in 1757 and it ground corn until around 1947.

The pub has recently been renovated and boasts six ensuite rooms, each with views of the water. We were shown to a peaceful room that was beautifully decorated in eye-catching yellows and blues. The room came with homemade cookies, a coffee machine, a speaker and a host of Norfolkmade toiletries. The tiled bathroom had a walk-in rain shower.

Waking up in the morning was a magical experience, from one window we could see the misty fields and cows and from the other, the stream that bubbles beneath the building.

On the menu

The Mill has a number of dining areas. In summer, the garden, right next to a stream, is the perfect spot for a cold pint.

We chose the pumpkin hummus with flatbread and salt fish Scotch egg to start. The hummus was excellently seasoned and the salt fish was a brilliant twist on a classic snack. It was followed by a juicy rump steak and partridge with parsnip crisps and a showstopping red cabbage. We had enough room for autumnal afters, fig and ginger pudding with custard and a cheeseboard.

Starters are from £4.50, mains from £15.50 and dessert from £7.50. Our breakfast was delicious, with full English, smoked salmon, yoghurt and muesli plus pastries on offer.

While you’re there

Sculthorpe Mill is nestled in a village perfectly situated to explore the natural beauty of North and West Norfolk.

It is a 13-minute drive from the coastal town of Wells-nextthe-Sea, 20 minutes from the country estate of Holkham Hall and a stone’s throw from the Queen’s country retreat at Sandringham.

Wake-up call

Rooms begin at £110 a night, B&B. sculthorpemill.uk

By Amy Blunt