Byfords is an institution when it comes to places to visit in the pretty market town of Holt in North Norfolk. Believed to be the oldest house in Holt (the cellar dates back to the 15th century), it survived the Great Fire of 1708.

Originally a hardware store and ironmonger, it is now a very popular café, restaurant, luxe B&B and store with deli and bakery. It manages to do all things incredibly well, whether you’re popping in for a fresh sausage roll, a fireside afternoon tea (those cakes!) or a cheeky romantic night away.

Traditional Norfolk flint on the outside, Byfords is all period charm and quirks inside, with beams, flagstone floors and lots of original wood panelling. There’s a warren of dining spaces, from a big open dining room through to cosy tables separated by wooden divides – perfect for date night or families.

Honest homely food is the order of the day – pizzas, steaks, curries and grazing dishes – ideal after a day at the coast (it’s less than four miles away) or an afternoon hammering Holt’s fantastic independent shopping scene.

Afternoon tea fans rejoice! An incredible spread is served every day from 2:30pm, but the themed Afternoon Tea Extravaganza on last Sunday of each month is one not to miss. All sandwiches are delivered straight to your table, and then head up and grab as many delightful desserts as you like!

Fancy stopping for longer? The 16 bedrooms are beautifully designed with just the right balance of individual luxury style and homely comfort. Catering for all holiday makers, they offer ‘posh’ and standard doubles, a family space with two separate rooms and a self-contained luxury attic apartment that sleeps five.

Byfords is part of the Norfolk Passport group of businesses (including Ffolkes in Hillington, The Pigs in Edgefield and The Assembly House in Norwich).