A Norfolk pub has won an esteemed national award after being recognised for its "imaginative dishes". 

The Gin Trap Inn, in Ringstead near Hunstanton, has been praised in The Times and Sunday Times Best Places to Stay awards.

The venue has won the Pubs with Rooms Hotel of the Year category after being commended by the judges for both its popularity with locals and the “imaginative dishes showcasing the superb local seafood, game and veg”.

In May 2019, the inn was taken on by director David Lamyman who carefully renovated each of the 16 bedrooms upstairs.

Eastern Daily Press: The establishment's 16 bedrooms have been recently renovatedThe establishment's 16 bedrooms have been recently renovated (Image: Rowan Mantell)

With the help of Gareth Rayner, who was appointed chef-patron in May 2022, Mr Lamyman has also earned the venue's restaurant three AA Rosettes.

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. 

READ MORE: The Gin Trap Inn Ringstead gets 3 AA Rosettes at 2024 awards

Claire Irvin, Head of Travel of The Times and Sunday Times, said: “The rigorous judging process for this year's Best Places To Stay awards has taken place against the backdrop of a difficult period for our readers and the hoteliers who clamour to welcome them. 

"Away breaks have almost never been more coveted, with annual leave, time out with friends and family and the cost of living all at a premium; at a time when the hotel industry is facing ever-increasing running costs and a recruitment crisis.

Eastern Daily Press: Director David Lamyman took the business on in 2019Director David Lamyman took the business on in 2019 (Image: The Gin Trap Inn)

"Therefore UK hotels have an even more challenging task than ever before – offering a unique and memorable experience while representing relative value for money.

"The price points of each hotel chosen may differ but they all share the same commitment to consistency and excellence our readers – and their hard-earned cash – deserve.”

Susan d’Arcy, Hotel Expert at The Times and Sunday, added: "I've been pleased to see more places taking a 360 approach to the hotel experience this year, letting their teams have more personality, being more inventive about activities, more adventurous about dining and showcasing local talent.

"It's definitely more fun for guests.”