Favourite Places For Waterside Dining
There’s something magical about dining by the water. And in Norfolk we are spoilt for choice with waterside cafes, pubs and restaurants.
We love breakfast at the Dunes River Café on the banks of the River Bure at Acle Bridge. Open during the summer months, it’s a great place to relax with a coffee and watch the world (or boats) go by. On the other side of Acle Bridge you’ll find The Bridge Inn with a busy riverside garden. There’s also a small crazy golf course and enclosed play area for children, so it ticks all the boxes for families.
At Ormesby The Boat House is set in 11 acres of parkland on the banks of Ormesby Broad, and is open for lunch and evening meals. It’s also a great wedding venue if you’re thinking of getting hitched! Their sister restaurant The Waterside at Rollesby is only open during the day, with amazing views over the water from the large decking area. They have boat trips too, and a fantastic enclosed play area for children.
The pretty riverside village of Horning has a few choices for waterside dining. The Swan Inn has seating on the riverbank where you can watch boats gliding up and down the river. The main part of the building dates from the early 19th century, but it’s most recent claim to fame being the setting for two of Arthur Ransom’s (author of Swallows and Amazons) children’s books.
Slightly further afield, Gorleston-on-Sea is one of our favourite beaches to visit with a choice of seaside restaurants. Jay Jays Beach Café on the lower promenade is a firm favourite with both visitors and locals. You can almost sit with your toes in the sand. Higher up, The Cliff Hotel offers relaxed dining and fantastic views from the terrace. The Fig Bar & Grill is also on the seafront with beach views and a mediterranean inspired menu. Stone baked pizzas are freshly made to order, and the rooftop is the perfect place to relax and watch the world go by.
Finally, The Hermanus in Winterton-on-Sea offers breathtaking views across Winterton Valley and out to sea. There’s a bar area and some outside seating but our favourite has to be the Sunday carvery which is popular with visitors and locals alike.