Feeling thirsty? For an authentic taste of Norfolk you can’t beat a pint of Woodforde’s ale. Crafted from local barley, water sourced from a bore hole beneath its brewery and a diverse range of whole hop flowers, the aromatic and flavoursome tipples have won countless awards and a legion of fans (and not just bearded beer lovers).

One of the region’s most well-known and largest brewers, Woodforde’s is located in the beautiful village of Woodbastwick, a stone’s throw away from Salhouse Broad and six miles from Norwich.

Offering something for every taste – from the well-known classics like Nelson’s, Bure Gold and Wherry (our personal favourite) through to the cool craft collection New World Brewing and its exciting new flavours like Hazy and Tropical IPA, and Conquest Pilsner – Woodforde’s certainly doesn’t shy away from modern brewing trends.

The Fur & Feather

For a truly local brew, sample from the source at Woodforde’s Fur & Feather, where the beer travels metres not miles from brewery to bar. This traditional thatched country inn is all exposed brick walls, flagstone floors and cosy fire places, with a vast garden overlooking the countryside. The recently revamped restaurant offers dishes which incorporate Woodforde’s beers (the Wherry Catch of the Day for us please!).

If you can tear yourself away from your pint – not easy on a summer’s day in that beer garden – then you’ll be rewarded by a behind-the-scenes brewery tour, which winds up at the onsite shop. Especially perfect for ‘him’ themed presents, the shop is filled with the full range of beers, Woodforde’s gift sets, local produce and creative merchandise (available to buy online too).

The Lord Nelson

Taking a trip further North of Norfolk? Woodforde’s also run The Lord Nelson pub in beautiful Burnham Thorpe, a short drive from the golden sands of Holkham and Wells-next-the-Sea. Stylishly restored and extended by the Holkham Estate, the pub boasts cosy snug bars with burning stoves, original wooden settles, stone floors, and a large sun-trap garden. You don’t need us to tell you what’s on tap, but rest assured the food is hearty with a hint of sophistication. Just how Muddy likes it.