Great British Food Christmas 2024

EAT: Deckchairs shaded under grand trees and generous benches facing out towards the expansive deer park mean that summer at Gunton is glorious, but it really comes into its own during the colder months. For the full experience, opt for a dish expertly cooked on the open fire mere metres from your Elk Room table (named after the huge elk antlers which hang above the fireplace). An unforgettable moment made extra special by opting for venison reared on the park itself. Traditional seasonal dishes such as celeriac and apple soup and slow-roasted lamb rump sit comfortably alongside the restaurant’s signature dish of Ivor’s crab pasta with chilli, garlic and coriander, and the pub snacks are not to be missed either. Our pick? Blythburgh pork crackling (sourced from neighbouring Suffolk) and apple sauce. Perfect for partnering with a pint – and maybe even partaking in a spot of pool – in the relaxed bar. Top marks for the non- alcoholic cocktail menu, too. Relaxed and well-rested after a night in one of Gunton’s resplendent rooms, stroll downstairs for a delicious breakfast. Stock up at the buffet – think yogurt, muesli, fruit and juice – to warm yourself up for the main event. We opted for drop scones topped with honey and crispy bacon (not to be missed) and the luxe full English. All flavour- packed and perfectly cooked, and served with a side of homely hospitality. DO: It would be remiss of us not to recommend a brisk walk to take in Norfolk’s famously open skies, and with such beautiful landscape on your doorstep there’s really no excuse. Wrap up warm and step straight out into the picturesque deer park – for a quick burst of fresh air check out the pyramid visible from the main building – or take a leisurely stroll around the park and back for a cockle-warming tipple by the fire. Once you've rebuilt your appetite, be sure to visit The Gunton Arms’ sister establishment – The Suffield Arms, located just down the road – for outstanding Mediterranean food and tapas. For more details visit theguntonarms.co.uk The Gunton Arms, Thorpe Market TUCKED DEEP WITHIN A PICTURESQUE DEER PARK WITH ROARING LOG FIRES, SUMPTUOUS SOFAS AND HEARTWARMING FOOD, THE GUNTON ARMS OFFERS OPTIMUM SEASONAL INDULGENCE SLEEP : It’s not every day that you get to rest and relax in a room designed by the late renowned interior designer Robert Kime, so the interiors at The Gunton Arms are a rare treat. At once classy and comfortable, elegant and rustic, each room is perfectly unique but one thing’s for sure – you’re in for an indulgent stay. We opted for a room with sweeping views over the surrounding deer park and an impressively deep bathtub as well as a giant bed to guarantee a great night’s sleep. Throughout the building, one-of-a-kind antique furniture as well as original art by the likes of Tracey Emin – expertly curated by art dealer owner, Ivor Braka – mean that no two corners are the same. The in-room toiletries are extra special, too. Made by local business Norfolk Natural Living, they have a luxurious scent made especially for The Gunton Arms. greatbr i t i shfoodawards.com 116 NORFOLK