Set in the village of Stanhoe, The Duck is a 300 year old gastropub and boutique inn that brings together the traditional character of a North Norfolk village pub with a contemporary approach to food, drink and hospitality. Surrounded by countryside and within easy reach of some of the county’s most celebrated beaches, it offers the kind of relaxed setting that makes you want to stay a little longer.
The Duck is run by chef Jeremy Parke and his wife Rachael, who took over the property in 2023. For the couple, the pub provides an opportunity to combine their experience and passion for hospitality with the landscape and produce of North Norfolk. Jeremy has strong local connections, having grown up in the area, and his approach to cooking is closely linked to the quality of ingredients available on the doorstep.
Food sits firmly at the heart of The Duck, with the kitchen focusing on seasonal British ingredients and produce sourced as locally as possible. The surrounding coastline and countryside provide an impressive natural larder, with local seafood, meat and other ingredients influencing the menu throughout the year. Jeremy’s cooking places an emphasis on traceability and sustainability, while his support for independent farmers and producers helps give the food a strong sense of place. Rather than relying on a fixed menu, the offering reflects the seasons, allowing ingredients to change as different produce becomes available. For visitors, that means there is always a reason to return, whether it is to enjoy a relaxed lunch, settle in for dinner or discover something new from the latest menu.
While the food is an important part of the experience, The Duck has retained many of the qualities that make a traditional village pub appealing. Inside, the historic character of the building is complemented by contemporary touches, creating a comfortable setting that works just as well for a casual drink as it does for a longer meal. Wood burning stoves add warmth during the colder months, while an open sided garden room provides another option when the weather is more inviting. Outside, the pub garden features mature apple trees, a terrace and patio heaters, creating an attractive place to enjoy a drink or something to eat.
The atmosphere is intended to be welcoming rather than formal. Rachael leads the front of house operation, bringing an attentive approach to service while maintaining the relaxed character that is central to the pub. Her experience as a sommelier also adds another dimension to the drinks offering, with guests able to explore an extensive wine list alongside hand pulled ales, including Elgood’s, and locally produced cordials.
For those wanting to make more of a trip to North Norfolk, The Duck also offers two recently refurbished luxury rooms on the first floor. The accommodation includes rooms such as The Feathered Nest, with super king beds and modern amenities designed to provide a comfortable base for an overnight stay. The combination of food, accommodation and location makes the inn particularly appealing for visitors exploring the North Norfolk coast. Brancaster, Holkham and other popular coastal destinations are within easy reach, while the surrounding villages and countryside offer plenty of opportunities for walking and exploring.
The Duck is also connected with Hyll House in nearby Docking, a sister venue offering a restaurant, bar, terrace and rooms. Although the two venues have their own individual character, they share the same family behind them and a similar approach to relaxed dining and hospitality. Together, the venues reflect an appreciation for experiences that combine good food with a strong sense of place. For The Duck, that sense of place is rooted firmly in Stanhoe and the wider North Norfolk landscape.
There is something timeless about a good village pub, particularly when it combines history, local produce and genuine hospitality. The Duck Stanhoe manages to preserve that traditional appeal while giving it a modern edge through its food, interiors, drinks and accommodation. Whether you are visiting for a seasonal meal, enjoying a drink in the garden or staying overnight as part of a North Norfolk escape, The Duck offers an opportunity to slow down and enjoy the best of the area. With Jeremy and Rachael at the helm, the focus remains firmly on good food, warm hospitality and making the most of the exceptional ingredients and surroundings that make North Norfolk such a special part of the county.
Location: Burnham Rd, Stanhoe, King’s Lynn PE31 8QD
Website: https://www.theduckstanhoe.com/