The Angel at Watlington finalist for best food at pub awards

The Angel at Watlington, located between Downham Market and King's Lynn, was taken over by chef Richard Crouch and his partner Emily Phipps in September 2018.

The pair aimed to bring some "culinary prowess to west Norfolk" by overhauling the pub into a dining destination.

The interior after its revamp in January (Image: Newsquest) READ MORE: The Angel at Watlington pub undergoes huge refurbishment

With an absolute focus on the freshest local ingredients, the restaurant changes it's menu daily to highlight the best produce they can get their hands on.

Emily said: "We want to show everyone the great produce we have on our doorstep.

"We have a big focus on our local suppliers, we get our game and venison from award-winning Goddards down the road in Downham Market and pair it with all sorts of local drinks like the wine from Burn Valley."

The pub changes its menu daily (Image: The Angel at Watlington) The pub is aiming for three AA Rosettes in 2024 (Image: The Angel at Watlington) A chef for over 30 years, Richard Crouch heads up the kitchen, earning them two AA rosettes in November last year.

The pub also underwent an extensive inside refurbishment in January with new furniture and flooring, revamped toilets, a fresh bar layout and landscaping outside.

The hard work has again been recognised, earning them a spot as one of six finalists from across the UK at the Great British Pub Awards.

A revamp of the outside and garden is also underway, hoping to be complete in the summer (Image: Newsquest) Flying the flag for Norfolk in the "Best Food" category, the pub underwent a rigours process by the judges to beat off competition from around the nation.

She added: "I was a little bit shocked to hear the news, we were in the competition a couple of years ago, so to be back again is spectacular."

However, the judging isn't over yet, with an interview and surprise visit the final chance to wow the judges.