Tucked away off a teeny country road that leads to one of the prettiest and poshest villages in Suffolk, Somerleyton, this red brick pub (part of The Somerleyton Estate) is a hidden gem.

The Duke’s head has been run by Tara Smyth and chef James Santillo since March 2018 and is known locally for its seasonal and flavour-filled menu. The pub still retains its original historic country charm with a bare-boards bar, exposed brick walls, mis-matched country furniture, painted panelling and a woodburner and welcomes post-walk muddy wellies and dogs.

There are several different dining areas and beer gardens with countryside views over the marshes and River Waveney out the back. The main bar area is cosy with a roaring wood burner, which also heats up the adjacent dining area with its own bar that would be perfect for a private lunch/event.

There’s also a light, bright area towards the back of the pub with access to a light-flooded summer conservatory.

Everywhere possible local produce is used, including the four local ales on tap at the bar – Adnam’s Ghostship, Woodforde’s Wherry, Green Jack Brewery’s Trawlerboys and Bull of the Wood’s Inca Gold. You won’t find any bog standard fish and chips and basic burgers here. The Duke’s Head is a gastropub, with the food being the main reason you’d go out of your way to come here. For example starters include: whipped cod’s roe, smoked paprika crisps; scotch egg, mustard mayonnaise; jerk pigeon skewer, date ketchup; and Jerusalem artichoke soup, Binham blue, kalettes, chestnuts.

Starters come in at around £6.50, the most expensive mains are £18 and desserts vary from £4 to £7.50.