The King’s Arms Pub in Shouldham is very special place. It’s West Norfolk’s first community owned pub, truly the heart of this pretty village. Nestled by the beautiful village green, it’s an atmospheric 17th century inn with a big garden, full of history and much loved.
The King’s Arms was saved from extinction by the heroic local community who fought tooth and claw to keep it open for everyone to enjoy. Public meetings and rousing speeches won the backing of actors like Norfolk boy Stephen Fry and others. Over £150,000 worth of shares were sold and 189 people, mostly local, invested so it could be purchased by the community.
A must for real ale lovers, it’s won several CAMRA West Norfolk Pub of the Year awards, with local beers served straight from the cask. Showcasing the best of British and Norfolk breweries, guest ales change each week, so pop in whenever you’re passing! And if you’re peckish, there’s a great pub menu featuring plenty of local Norfolk produce. The pub’s not defined by areas, so order at the bar and sit wherever you like; this is relaxed place where everyone’s welcome so it’s a dog-friendly pub too!
If you want to work up an appetite for lunch, take a walk around Shouldham Warren, an undulating conifer wood on the edge of the Fens, just north of the village. In late spring vibrant rhododendrons bloom and there’s lovely autumn colour, not unlike the tawny amber of a fine real ale!
