The Kings Head

We'd booked late, so were glad to get a table for dinner after a long drive and an afternoon at Thursford christmas show, before heading to our Holt accommodation. The building is beautiful and has real charm. We were greeted warmly and seated quickly, even though we arrived a little early. The menu isn't huge, though there's a specials board. My partner found the vegetarian choices quite limited, while our little one was very happy with Norfolk sausages and mash. It was nice to see the children's menu hadn't been skimped on. I had the Barnsley chop from the specials. I know this probably isn't the cheapest place around, but the atmosphere, service and food quality make the price feel fair. What disappointed me was paying extra for the sides: £4 for four new potatoes and £5 for a small dish of cabbage. It made the meal feel expensive, since surely most people want vegetables with a chop.

The room was clean, the bed comfortable, and we both slept really well. We stayed Friday night while briefly stopping in Holt, and felt welcome straight away. The chef even offered to cook for us though the kitchen was about to close. The manager, whose name I didn't catch, was very attentive, and Beverly was lovely. Breakfast was tasty too, and Sharon made sure we had everything we needed. We loved staying here and will definitely return.

Kelly looked after me brilliantly, with a friendly manner and a spot-on dessert suggestion. The food and drinks were top-notch, and the atmosphere was lovely. Everything was spotless, and I felt really valued. Can't wait to come back for another great meal.

The chocolate mousse was good, and the building is lovely, with friendly informal service and well-kept ales. But the food left us underwhelmed at our big family Boxing Day 2025 meal. My father paid for everyone and wouldn't complain, but we all felt the same. At £18, the burgers were flat patties, not juicy or indulgent, stacked burgers that felt like a safe bet. My vegetarian risotto was claggy and flavourless, with none of the herby, zesty, creamy Italian feel I'd hoped for. For basic food, it felt overpriced. I wouldn't return. I'd give it 2½ stars if I could, but it's Christmas, so I'm being kind.