The Rose & Crown, Snettisham, Norfolk

On a quiet side lane in a sprawling, west Norfolk village, this old inn makes a good vantage point for days out on the coast. Nearby Snettisham Beach is an important RSPB bird reserve, the long-distance Peddar's Way footpath passes close by and the National Cycle Route (no. 1) runs through the village. The beach at Hunstanton, the lavender fields at Heacham and the Queen's Sandringham Estate are all close by.

By car: The pub is just under 3 hours from London, around 2 hours 40 mins from Birmingham and just over an hour from Norwich. There is a large car park at the back.

By train: London Kings Cross to King's Lynn station takes 1 hour 50 mins. A taxi to the pub then takes around 25 mins. Book trains to King's Lynn.

This picture-perfect, centuries-old hostelry with roses around the door plays homage to the village cricket and football teams with a back bar plastered in sporting paraphernalia. Characterful front areas have original features including beams, open fires and pamment floors. Breakfast is served in a newer extension which opens onto the sheltered, walled garden.

Mostly local staff offer efficient and friendly service and are particularly welcoming to families (children are treated as small and slightly messier customers). The kitchen tries to make sure that children's meals come out as quickly as possible and staff are happy to warm bottles and provide high chairs. There's also a sizeable car park.

• Bar
• Restaurant
• Garden
• Pet-friendly
• Free parking
• Free Wi-Fi

An unpretentious collection of 16 bedrooms is decorated in a fresh, contemporary style, with whitewashed walls and colourful fabrics. Two ground-floor rooms have been fully refurbished and have Dutch orange walls, stylish bathroom fittings, large walk-in showers and wood-look floors, more practical for dogs.

Room types: Double Room

Key amenities: ensuite bathroom with Molton Brown toiletries, towels, flat-screen TV, radio, tea and coffee facilities, books and magazines, comfy furniture, free Wi-Fi

Chef Mark Anderson uses fresh, high-quality ingredients, combining pub favourites with less traditional options including Moroccan-spiced lamb or sweet potato and chickpea harissa stew with babaganoush. Puddings come in regular and mini sizes: dark chocolate mousse cake, coconut panna cotta, warm toffee apple tart or baked nutmeg custard with rhubarb, depending on the season.

The Rose & Crown: seasonal menus, hearty pub food, small plates, local produce, guest ales. Food served 12-8pm. Mains from £12.50.