Chequers Inn

Well off the beaten track, this splendid, long and low, thatched 17th-century inn is worth finding - a mile off the A1075 Watton to Thetford road along a tiny lane on the edge of the village - for its peaceful location and unspoilt charm. It takes its name from the chequered cloth used for counting money, wages and rents in medieval times. Manorial courts, held here from at least 1724, dealt with rents, letting of land, and petty crime. Beneath the steep-raked thatch of this ancient ale house, once a row of several cottages, lies a series of low-ceilinged inter-connecting rooms served by a long bar. Wonky wall timbers, low doorways, open log fires, a rustic mix of old furniture and old farming implements characterise the atmospheric interior. Eat in the bar for pub favourites such as steak and kidney pudding, deep-fried cod and chips, and home-made vegetable curry. In the evenings, choose from pork medallions with stilton and red onion, stuffed chicken breast with smoked salmon, sirloin steak with horseradish, brandy and mushroom sauce, or look to the chalkboard for the day's fresh fish dishes, perhaps whole sea bream, and game in season. Round things off with home-made desserts like treacle and almond tart, or opt for a selection of English and continental cheeses served with grapes, celery and biscuits. The inn is an ideal base for exploring the heart of Norfolk and the Peddars Way National Trail. Alternatively, the eight-mile Great Eastern Pingo Trail follows a succession of shallow depressions in the ground that were formed during the last Ice Age. Dogs are welcome in the large rear garden, which offers picnic tables and children's play equipment, as well as extensive views over the surrounding countryside. Booking for meals may be required.