Sunday, March 24, 2013

THE LIFEBOAT INN: A SHINING LIGHT

The Lifeboat Inn Thornham Norfolk PE36 6LT 01485 512236 www.lifeboatinnthornham.com RATING: FOOD: 4/5 AMBIANCE: 4/5 BEER SELECTION: 4/5 SERVICE: 5/5 TOILETS: 5/5 WEBSITE: 4/5 TOTAL: 26/30 THE chill wind whipped in from the North Norfolk coast and the prospect of a blazing log fire proved irresistible. So did the thought of a thirst-quenching pint after a brisk walk near Thornham, near Hunstanton. The Lifeboat Inn came into view and so we pushed the door handle and entered. The oak-beamed bar plus the warm welcome from the barman and locals was a bonus and Duncan and I ordered two pints of Greene King IPA and Pam a shandy. They went down a treat. So much so, that we decided to stay for dinner and we have no regrets. The extensive menu made us think but the turkey escalope Milanese and tagliatelle proved a draw for Duncan. He didn’t leave a crumb. Pam selected smoked haddock risotto with leeks, shaved parmesan and a poached egg on top. It was a winner, the tastes merging to produce a memorable dish. As it was a Sunday I selected traditional roast beef and Yorkshire pudding with vegetables. The meat was cooked to perfection and the sauce, wonderful. When we arrived back at our well-appointed, three-bed holiday cottage in Malthouse Court that I looked up The Lifeboat’s credentials. The promise a delicious meal from their extensive menu served in the history-soaked bar or conservatory or elegant, recently renovated restaurant. They were spot on. The other benefit is that their food is locally sourced whenever possible. Venison comes from Houghton Hall, oysters, lobsters and mussels from Brancaster, seafood from King's Lynn and crabs from Cromer. The specials menu changes daily so we can use the best products when in season and they also have an extensive children’s menu. The Lifeboat has a long-standing reputation, a point underlined by the couple sitting next to us with two dogs who had been coming to the establishment for around 25 years. And I almost forgot the bar. It is recognised for selling quality real ales such as Woodfords Wherry (a bit flowry for my taste), refreshing Adnams and the superby creamy Green King IPA. They also boast a guest pump which changes regularly, providing local suppliers with a chance to impress. We were certainly impressed with The Lighthouse.

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