A village haunt which has long delighted drinkers and diners alike is celebrating a landmark anniversary next month. 

The Wildebeest pub in Stoke Holy Cross is turning 30 in September and staff are preparing a special month-long menu for the occasion. 

Chef Patron Daniel Smith and his team will serve a three-course meal which will include chicken liver parfait, butter-baked cod supreme and tonka bean creme brulee. 

The Wildebeest is celebrating its 30th with a special menuThe Wildebeest is celebrating its 30th with a special menu (Image: Google)

An anniversary signature dish "combining an old-school Wildebeest customer favourite with a more modern twist" will also be available. 

Daniel said: "The Wildebeest has played host to so many occasions and happy meals over the years - birthday and anniversary meals, weddings and even marriage proposals.

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"Events and occasions that help to create memories and shape people's lives have happened here and we're very thankful."

Originating in 1837, the business was formerly called The Red Lion and has been owned by blacksmiths, carpenters and wheelwrights during its long life. 

The Wildebeest - then called The Red Lion - pictured around 1925The Wildebeest - then called The Red Lion - pictured around 1925 (Image: Norfolk Public Houses)

It ceased to be The Red Lion in 1994 when it was renamed It ceased to be The Red Lion in 1994 when it was renamed (Image: Norfolk Public Houses)

During the Second World War it was bombed by the Germans and in 1994 it became The Wildebeest, transforming into a gastro pub with an African theme.

This caused "quite a stir" in the community but it continues to endure three decades later.

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Daniel, who is also the owner, added: "I look out in the restaurant and see many of the same faces today that I have seen for more than two decades.

It looks very different today than it did 30 years agoIt looks very different today than it did 30 years ago (Image: The Wildebeest)

The Wildebeest head chef Fabio Miani and chef patron Daniel Smith (right)The Wildebeest head chef Fabio Miani and chef patron Daniel Smith (right) (Image: The Wildebeest)

"The ongoing public support and appreciation for The Wildebeest and what we do is humbling and I'm very thankful for that.

"From our regular guests to those who are trying us for the first time, we strive to ensure all diners enjoy a consistent and memorable experience with us.

"Cheers to 30 years of unforgettable dining experiences and to many more to come."