Pint Chasers on Tour: The White Horse Inn

By now you may be aware that we - The Pint Chasers - are on a road trip across the country, on a mission to highlight the many different types of Brit Stops hosts and to gather ingredients for our upcoming picnic along the way… (take a look at the Brit Stops Instagram to see our journey so far!)

The latest stop on our tour of the UK is the charming White Horse Inn, set alongside the A140 in Suffolk. For those who've ever driven from Suffolk to Norfolk, you’ll recognise the front of this pub, whose pitched roof towers over its field surroundings… and if you’ve ever driven from Norfolk to Suffolk you’ll still probably have seen it, just from the back. In any case – it is inviting from all angles. We’ve parked up in the shade of an oak tree and headed inside, keen to get the first pint of the trip under our belts!

A Pub with Personality

The White Horse Inn is more than just a pit stop; it's a destination in its own right. On our way in we pass a small shed just outside the door selling local eggs and juice – and the delights don’t stop there. This gastro pub offers great food, local beers and the increasingly popular genre of accommodation – the Shepherd’s hut. Known for its hearty steak and ale pie, the kitchen sources its steak from Cleveley’s Butchery, just 20 miles up the road, and diners travel from far and wide to try the pies.

The White Horse Inn serves food all day until 9 PM, so there's no rush - whether you're stopping by for breakfast, lunch, dinner, or a bowl of chips, you'll find something delicious.

Ever thorough in our quest for pub excellence, we thought it best to try the food ourselves. There is plenty of dining space inside, so we settled ourselves in on a table by the fireplace. I enjoyed the chicken and mushroom with wild rice, while Asa, who has a well-documented love for burgers, dove into one of their signature beef burgers. The food was delicious and if, like us, you find yourself gasping for tea just as readily as you do for a pint, you're in for luck - they serve a proper pot of tea here.

A Family-Friendly Atmosphere

Beyond the food, the White Horse Inn boasts a range of amenities that cater to families and solo travellers alike. There's a sandpit and children’s play area, providing plenty of entertainment for the little ones while you relax with a pint of one of their fine cask ales or lagers. There is also no battling with winding country roads here; the White Horse is very easily accessible by main road making it a very convenient stop.

Manager Kelly disclosed that owing to its Shepherd’s hut accommodation, The White Horse has been known to serve as a meeting place for Britstoppers and their non-motorhoming friends. Food for thought!

The Surroundings

While the pub itself is a fantastic place to relax and socialise, the surrounding countryside offers plenty of activities for those looking to explore. Just a 20-minute walk away is Thornham Walks, set on the historic Thornham Estate. With varying lengths of walks available, it's a great way to stretch your legs and enjoy the natural beauty of Suffolk. The Thornham Estate has a rich history dating back to the 13th century, and the walks offer glimpses of the estate's past, with picturesque landscapes and peaceful woodlands.

A 15 minute drive down the road is Stonham Barns, a bustling complex with something for everyone. You can visit the Owl Sanctuary, enjoy a gentle afternoon at the tea rooms, try your hand at fishing in the lakes, or practice your swing at the golf park. The shopping village is perfect for picking up souvenirs and supporting local crafts.

For those willing to venture a bit further, an hour's drive will take you to most of Norfolk and Suffolk’s stunning coastlines, where you can take in the sea views and charming seaside towns.

A Memorable Stay

Our visit to the White Horse Inn was a delightful experience, combining great British hospitality with the comforts of a home-away-from-home. Whether you're stopping by for a meal, staying overnight, or exploring the nearby attractions, the White Horse Inn offers a warm welcome and a memorable experience. So, if you find yourself on the A140, don't just drive by—stop in and discover the charm of this Suffolk gem. Another successful stop on our Pint Chasers' tour!

Cheers!

Lois