A Norfolk pub has been awarded three AA Rosettes for culinary excellence, which is reserved for "outstanding" dining spots. 

David Lamyman took on The Gin Trap Inn in Ringstead, near Hunstanton, in May 2019 and in August 2022 Gareth Rayner was appointed chef-patron.

Mr Rayner, who hails from Hartlepool in the north east of England, was previously at the Middleton Lodge Estate in North Yorkshire, which held three Rosettes. 

Eastern Daily Press: The Gin Trap Inn in Ringstead Picture: Rowan MantellThe Gin Trap Inn in Ringstead Picture: Rowan Mantell (Image: Rowan Mantell)

The 43-year-old has now replicated this success in his current role and he was also named 'Chef of the Year' at the Norfolk Food and Drink Awards 2023. 

Eastern Daily Press: The Gin Trap Inn celebrates earning 3 AA Rosettes for culinary excellence, chef-patron Gareth Rayner holds the celebratory plate Picture: AAThe Gin Trap Inn celebrates earning 3 AA Rosettes for culinary excellence, chef-patron Gareth Rayner holds the celebratory plate Picture: AA (Image: Supplied by the AA)

The Gin Trap Inn was given its third Rosette at the spring edition of the AA Rosette Awards 2024 on Tuesday night in London.

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Mr Rayner said: "I am absolutely buzzing and it is great to be recognised as a food destination.

Eastern Daily Press: Sophie Daniels, manager, and Gareth Rayner, chef patron, celebrate The Gin Trap Inn being awarded three AA RosettesSophie Daniels, manager, and Gareth Rayner, chef patron, celebrate The Gin Trap Inn being awarded three AA Rosettes (Image: The Gin Trap Inn)

"Near us, there are restaurants like The Neptune and Titchwell Manor and we are now in league with these places.

"I think to get to three it is about consistency and pushing forward with flavours and techniques."

Eastern Daily Press: Sunday roasts from The Gin Trap Inn, Ringstead Picture: Root SocialSunday roasts from The Gin Trap Inn, Ringstead Picture: Root Social (Image: Root Social)

The a la carte menu is currently available on Wednesday to Saturday evenings, with the addition of Saturday lunchtime, and roasts are served from midday on Sundays.

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Despite its fine dining accolades, The Gin Trap Inn still retains its roots as a 17th-century coaching inn, with the bar area separate from the dining room serving a more casual menu. 

It also boasts 16 bedrooms, which were renovated when Mr Lamyman took on the site.

Eastern Daily Press: David Lamyman, director of The Gin Trap InnDavid Lamyman, director of The Gin Trap Inn (Image: Gin Trap Inn)

Mr Lamyman said: "I am very proud of Gareth and he is a really lovely, calm individual - everyone likes working for him. 

"Being recognised by the AA starts to get you noticed for other ratings and awards." 

Three AA Rosettes are awarded to "outstanding restaurants that achieve standards that demand recognition well beyond their local area" after one or more visits from an inspector.