The Brisley Bell

The Brisley Bell is a venerable establishment, with the earliest existing records going back to 1706. For centuries, the pub has been serving folks not just in Brisley, but all over Norfolk. Ownership changed hands throughout, not staying in any family for too long, and is currently run by Marcus Seaman and Amelia Nicholsson. Past owners of note included Robert Englebright, who is Marcus's direct ancestor, as well as Ada Gricks, who grew up in and operated the Bell for most of the 20th century alongside her husband, Henry. The pub unfortunately had to close in 2013, but was rescued from dereliction by Marcus and Amelia in 2015.

The partners immediately set about restoring the pub, incorporating sustainable aspects and practices while respecting the building's heritage. Even when the Brisley Bell reopened in 2017, restoration and expansion efforts continued. They purchased adjacent buildings, such as the pig barns, converting them into accommodations. There was also the cottage behind the pub, believed to have been the home of Richard Taverner, who is credited as one of the earliest English translators of the Bible.

Although The Brisley Bell dates back to the 17th century, the pub retains much of its original structure and architecture. Its exterior perfectly embodies both age and rural heritage, shown in materials like brick, flint, and aged timbers. Even when it came to its more recent expansions, namely the pig barns that have been converted as guestrooms, their classical builds shine through.

Comparatively, the interiors are lined with classic architectural features, such as exposed beams and large inglenook fireplaces. These characteristics contribute to the Bell's immersive old-time atmosphere, accompanied by newer additions like the spacious patio and garden room. Owner Amelia made it a point to use the vintage furniture she found stored within the property. The vintage chairs were reupholstered with orange fabrics, which are complemented by earthy forest colors found throughout the property. The accommodations, too, present a combination of classical and contemporary, with reused materials adapted into decorative fixtures. Marcus and Amelia also made it a point to provide accessibility to their guests, with special designated rooms that are wheelchair-friendly and equipped with amenities like raised toilets and grab rails.

The Brisley Bell’s dining focuses on fresh, locally sourced food, prepared in menus that change along with the seasons, with the best part being that almost everything is homemade. Head Chef Herve Stouvenel blends classic English and European recipes with contemporary styles he learned from France and the Caribbean. At the same time, he doesn't neglect guests with dietary needs, adapting with gluten‑free sauces and gravies. The pub’s offerings include regular themed nights like Steak Night as well as varied menus for lunch, dinner, and Sunday roasts.

Opening hours:
Monday : No food service for lunch or dinner.
Tuesday: Steak Night: 6 pm – 8.30 pm
Wednesday – Saturday
Lunch: 12 pm – 2 pm
Dinner: 6 pm – 8:45 pm
Sunday: 12 pm – 6 pm

Aside from the delicious food, The Brisley Bell also boasts a well‑stocked bar with a diverse selection of cask‑conditioned ales and local guest beers from regional breweries, backed by their prestigious Cask Marque rating. Their wine list is maintained and curated by the culinary team, and sourced with the help of local suppliers. Options range from distinct vintages, organic options, and homegrown English sparkling wines. For more jovial options, the bar also prepares a selection of cocktails and mocktails, as well as coffee blends from Coffee Quest, a fellow local company.

Turn the peaceful Norfolk countryside into the setting of your unforgettable destination wedding. The Brisley Bell offers flexible services for celebrations set in their inn and garden venues. Couples can book spaces like The Green Room and The Snug for smaller gatherings, or make an exclusive reservation of the entire pub for larger events. Exclusive hire of the property includes the venue and staff, along with a range of wonderful services. You can start off with welcome glasses of bubbly drinks and canapés, enjoy a seasonal three‑course meal with shared house wines, and feast with an evening buffet.

Cultural and Outdoor Experiences

Don't be fooled by the peaceful and idyllic Norfolk countryside; hidden within these sleepy villages are gentle plains are numerous adventures to be had. The area around The Brisley Bell offers plenty of outdoor and countryside activities, beginning with scenic circular walks directly from the pub. You can also enjoy cycling along quiet country lanes on National Cycle Route No. 13, or take dawn and dusk nature walks around Brisley Green, right across the street from the hotel. Golfers have several excellent courses nearby, including the Royal Norwich Golf Club and Sheringham Golf Club. If you fancy some fly fishing, opportunities are plentiful at nearby Roosting Hills Fishery. But for a quiet day indoors, arts and crafts enthusiasts can join weaving, tassel-making, or life-drawing classes with local artists.

For those looking to go further afield, day-trip options are plentiful around Norfolk. You can take a boat trip on the Norfolk Broads, visit charming coastal towns like Wells-next-the-Sea, or enjoy wildlife watching at Titchwell Marsh and the North Norfolk Heritage Coast. Some of the local estates welcome visitors as well, such as Oxburgh Hall, Houghton Hall, and Blickling Estate. More heritage experiences await, such as steam locomotive rides on the Mid-Norfolk Railway, and tasting tours at St George’s Distillery.

Like their bespoke wedding services, The Brisley Bell accommodates events and celebrations focused on private dining and parties. Guests can book large tables and group gatherings for birthdays, anniversaries, work celebrations, or social meetups. These can be enhanced with add-ons like inclusive meals for breakfast, afternoon drinks, lunch, and dinner.

Private rooms like The Green Room and The Snug are fantastic venues for intimate parties of up to 28 guests, with reservations covering the dedicated space and service. For events with a larger scale, the pub can be hired exclusively, giving you the full venue and staff. This can be further tailored with custom menus and drinks, as well as a venue expansion with a marquee in the garden.