The Rose & Crown, Snettisham, Norfolk

This old inn sits in a west Norfolk village, and is a good base for days out on the coast; nearby Snettisham Beach is an important RSPB bird reserve. The lavender fields at Heacham, the Sandringham Estate and the beach at Hunstanton are all close by.

The long-distance Peddar's Way footpath passes close by and the National Cycle Route (no. 1) runs through the village.

By car: The pub is just under 3 hours from London, around 2 hours 40 mins from Birmingham and just over an hour from Norwich. There is a large car park at the back.

By train: London Kings Cross to King's Lynn station takes 1 hour 50 mins. A taxi to the pub then takes around 25 mins. Book trains to King's Lynn.

With roses around the door, this centuries-old postcard-perfect hostelry plays homage to the village cricket and football teams with a back bar plastered in sporting paraphernalia. Breakfast is served in a newer extension which opens onto the sheltered, walled garden and characterful front areas have original features, including beams, open fires and pamment floors.

Predominantly local staff offer friendly and efficient service and are particularly welcoming to families (children are treated as simply smaller and slightly messier customers). Staff are happy to warm bottles and provide high chairs and the kitchen tries to ensure that children's meals come out as quickly as possible. There's also a spacious car park.

• Bar
• Restaurant
• Garden
• Pet-friendly
• Free parking
• Free Wi-Fi

The 16 bedrooms are unpretentious, decorated in a fresh, contemporary style with whitewashed walls and colourful fabrics. If you're travelling with a four-legged friend, two ground-floor rooms have been fully refurbished and have Dutch orange walls, stylish bathroom fittings, large walk-in showers and wood-look floors.

Room types: Double Room

Key amenities: ensuite bathroom with Molton Brown toiletries, towels, flat-screen TV, radio, tea and coffee facilities, books and magazines, free Wi-Fi

Blending pub favourites with less traditional options, including Moroccan-spiced lamb or sweet potato and chickpea harissa stew with babaganoush, Chef Mark Anderson uses fresh, high-quality ingredients. We loved the R&C tapas dishes including crispy halloumi, Dingley Dell pork belly and fire-roasted falafel and puddings that come in regular and mini sizes.

The Rose & Crown: seasonal menus, hearty pub food, small plates, local produce, guest ales. Food served 12-8pm. Mains from £12.50.