A charming escape at North Norfolk‘s hidden gem
Our journey to The Nest Farmhouse began with a rather quiet taxi ride from the train station. As we meandered down a charming country lane, our driver suddenly piped up, “Kate and Will live down there.” Naturally, I piped up too, “You pop round for tea and biscuits then?” Cue silence. The mysteries of the British countryside.
When we finally arrived at Nest Farmhouse, we were instantly taken by the beautiful surroundings. The Farmhouse, housed in a former cattle shed, effortlessly combines rustic charm with a chic New England retreat vibe. The big open space inside is split into two halves—one side featuring a comfy lounge area with a wood burner, the other showcasing the vibrant dining room, and an impressive bar in the centre.
Stepping outside, we found a picturesque walkway leading to a serene pond, complete with a swan gliding gracefully across the water. It felt like a scene from a movie, with the gentle ripples reflecting the Norfolk sky.
Our Room: A Cosy Retreat
Our room was quaint and homely with a delightful wrap-around terrace with comfy seating. We woke up early to catch the sunrise and it was a sight to behold. The sky erupted in hues of orange and pink, birds silhouetted against the backdrop of golden fields, and the occasional power line adding a juxtaposition of urban life against the rural setting.
Dining Experience: Farm-to-Plate Delights
Dinner at The Nest was nothing short of spectacular. We kicked things off with the Farmhouse fried chicken, which was crunchy, chunky, and served with a mouth-watering fermented chilli mayo. For starters, we savoured the cured Chalkstream trout with seaweed butter, smoked cod’s roe, pickled cockles, and fresh soda bread, alongside the Wells crab served with BBQ green beans, nectarines, and elderflower pickle. Each dish showcased the elevated and sophisticated cooking style that pays homage to Norfolk’s rich culinary heritage.
For mains, we opted for the Cornish monkfish paired with curried lobster sauce, fennel bhaji, and Cumberland relish, and the Angus beef fillet, complemented by BBQ cavolo nero, pickled walnut, girolles, and crispy garlic potatoes. The food was comforting yet refined—exactly what you want for a memorable meal. And, because no dinner is complete without dessert, we shared a delightful rhubarb crumble, topped with a generous dollop of vanilla ice cream.
Breakfast Bliss
The next morning, breakfast was served in the same sun-drenched dining space. Light flooded the room as we poured ourselves cafetières of rich coffee and sipped fresh orange juice while tucking into homemade breads and jams. The full English breakfast, which featured homemade beans, a perfectly cooked sausage, two fried eggs, black pudding, and toast was an absolute treat for a lazy Sunday morning.
Final Thoughts
Nest Farmhouse truly is a place where life slows down and the beauty of Norfolk can be fully appreciated. The building itself, with its soft grey exterior and light green beams, reminded us of a charming American farmhouse, making it feel even cosier. Throughout our stay, the service was friendly and attentive, adding to the overall warm atmosphere.
If you’re seeking a peaceful retreat with delicious food, stunning views, and a touch of homely charm, Nest Farmhouse is the place to be. It’s a delightful addition to North Norfolk’s dining scene and an experience we’d recommend without hesitation.
Nest Farmhouse, Fakenham Rd, Docking, King’s Lynn PE31 8PX
nestfarmhouse.co.uk
