Recruiting Sergeant Coltishall Restaurant photoRecruiting Sergeant Coltishall Exterior photoRecruiting Sergeant Coltishall Exterior photo
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From129US$ /night
Check-in
03Jun2026Select date
Check-out
04Jun2026Select date
Rooms and Guests2 Guests, 1 Room
Key details

About the Hotel

Norwich Road, Horstead, Coltishall, United Kingdom, NR12 7EE
-
Near The Broads National Park
Great
8.8
/10
4.3
4.7
/5

4-star traditional pub and restaurant with award-winning dining

Dining Experience

The Recruiting Sergeant excels in culinary experiences with a menu crafted from quality produce, sourced locally whenever possible. Specializing in fresh fish and seafood, the restaurant's offerings are complemented by classic British pub grub. Sundays highlight traditional roasts, ensuring a variety of delectable options for guests.

Accommodation

The hotel provides five recently renovated double bedrooms, equipped with comfortable king size or twin beds. Each room includes a wall-mounted SMART TV and en suite bath/shower rooms with complimentary toiletries. Dog-friendly options are available in some guest bedrooms, accommodating traveling pets.

Location

Situated in the village of Horstead, near Coltishall, the hotel is positioned conveniently close to the picturesque Norfolk Broads. Guests benefit from nearby walking trails and local attractions that showcase the area's natural beauty. A bus stop located outside the pub enables easy access for those wishing to explore without a vehicle.

Pet-Friendly Amenities

The Recruiting Sergeant welcomes dogs in designated guest bedrooms, promoting an inclusive environment for pet owners. Dining options allow for dogs in the bar area, with considerations made for other guests. Guests may also request special arrangements for celebrating occasions with their pets.

Nearby Attractions

Within walking distance, guests can explore local spots such as Horstead Mill and Coltishall Lock, offering a scenic 30-minute stroll. The longer Weavers' Way path provides opportunities for true nature enthusiasts to witness local wildlife. A bus stop outside the hotel adds convenience for accessing additional attractions in the larger Norfolk area.

Highlights

Dining: fresh fish and seafood

Accommodation: dog-friendly options

Location: bus stop

Nearby: Horstead Mill

Must-do experiences

  • Start your day with a traditional Norfolk breakfast at the pub.
  • Visit the historic St. Mary's Church for stunning architecture.
  • Take a scenic stroll along the River Bure for breathtaking views.
  • Try the local Cromer crab at The Recruiting Sergeant for a delicacy.
  • Explore the nearby How Hill Trust for rich wildlife and heritage.
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Select your room type

Recruiting Sergeant offers a variety of rooms including double rooms, family rooms, and suites with breakfast, free cancelations, and special deals
Standard Twin Room
2 persons
1 King-size bed
Heating
Bathtub
Twin Room Shower
2 persons
1 King-size bed
Shower
Heating
Standard Double Room
2 persons
1 King-size bed
Heating
Bathtub
Double Room Private Bathroom
2 persons
1 King-size bed
Shower
Heating
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Show all rooms
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Price and Room Availability Calendar

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Facilities

Recruiting Sergeant offers amenities for your comfortable stay and unforgettable experiences
Facilities: Great
8.7/10Review score

General

  • No smoking on site
  • Parking
  • Pets allowed
  • Security
  • Smoke detectors
  • Fire extinguishers

Guest Parking

  • Electric kettle

Services

  • Pet amenities available
  • Room service
  • Housekeeping
  • Welcome drink

Dining

  • In-room breakfast
  • Restaurant
  • Bar/ Lounge area
  • Special diet menus

Business

  • Meeting/ Banquet facilities

Children

  • Children's menu

Spa & Leisure

  • Sun terrace
  • Garden area

Room features

  • Free Wi-Fi in rooms
  • Heating
  • Terrace
  • Garden furniture
  • Tea and coffee facilities
  • Ironing facilities

Self-catering

  • Electric kettle

Media

  • Flat-screen TV

Room decor

  • Carpeted floor
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Dining Onsite

The Recruiting Sergeant features a delightful restaurant and bar, offering guests an array of culinary experiences shaped by British and French influences, along with a specialized focus on fresh seafood. This charming venue invites travelers to indulge in authentic flavors while enjoying the welcoming ambience of a traditional pub garden.
Recruiting Sergeant Coltishall Restaurant photo
Recruiting Sergeant Coltishall Restaurant photo
Recruiting Sergeant Coltishall Restaurant photo

Restaurant #1

British, French, Seafood, Local, Grill/BBQ
Ambiance
A cozy setting perfect for relaxation, enhanced by the charm of an attractive pub garden that offers a peaceful escape.
Key Offerings
The menu features a variety of vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, and dairy-free options. Fresh fish and seafood stand out as specialties, ensuring every palate is satisfied.
Reservation
Not needed.
Hours vary.

Recruiting Sergeant Location

Norwich Road, Horstead, Coltishall, United Kingdom, NR12 7EE
Map view
Norwich Road, Horstead, Coltishall, United Kingdom, NR12 7EE
Nearby
Parish Church of All Saints
500 ft
Royal Air Force Air Defence Radar Museum
1900 ft
Tranquility Charter
1900 ft
Restaurants
The Recruiting Sergeant
300 ft
Norwich Road Near Coltishall
Ali Spice
1400 ft
28 High Street
Dollie's Bakery
2200 ft
77 Church Street Attached to The Red Lion pub
Explore Coltishall
Explore the Local Scene
Top Attractions
Activities
Dining
Entertainment
Horstead Mill
10 minutes' walk
Historic watermill with picturesque views and scenic walking paths. Ideal for a leisurely stroll or photography.
Royal Air Force Air Defence Radar Museum
7 minutes' walk
A museum dedicated to the history of RAF radar systems. Offers insightful tours and is great for history enthusiasts.
Parish Church of St John the Baptist
Parish Church of St John the Baptist
15 minutes' walk
A beautiful medieval church featuring stunning architecture and a peaceful atmosphere, perfect for quiet reflection.
Hiking at Hoveton Hall Gardens
10-minute drive
Scenic gardens with trails and diverse flora. Ideal for relaxing walks amid nature.
Wroxham Miniature Worlds
Wroxham Miniature Worlds
10-minute drive
Family-friendly miniature theme park. Features engaging attractions for thrill-seekers and puzzle lovers.
The Recruiting Sergeant
The Recruiting Sergeant
2 minutes' walk
Cozy pub offering traditional British fare with a welcoming atmosphere. Reservations recommended for peak times.
Ali Spice
Ali Spice
5 minutes' walk
Authentic Indian cuisine with vegetarian options, known for its flavorful dishes and warm service.
Capital Culture Gallery
15 minutes' walk
Local art gallery featuring rotating exhibits and events. Great for cultural enthusiasts and family visits.
Wroxham Barns
Wroxham Barns
10-minute drive
An entertainment complex with mini-golf and crafts. Perfect for a fun family day out, featuring seasonal events.
Getting around
City Centre
Coltishall11 min  ·  3000 ft
Airports
Norwich International (NWI)15 min  ·  6.0 mi
Cambridge (CBG)176 min  ·  72.7 mi
Bus
Bus stop8 min  ·  3.2 mi
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Property information and rules
Check-in
from 14:00-22:00
Check-out
until 10 am
Guest Parking
Public parking is possible on site for free.
Internet
Wireless internet is available in the hotel rooms for free.
Breakfast
The hotel Recruiting Sergeant serves a full breakfast for free. 
Pets
Pets are allowed on request.

Reviews and Ratings

Feedback about Recruiting Sergeant from previous guests about their experience.
Review score
Based on 354 verified reviews
9.3/10
Perfect
94%
Recommend
Cleanliness
8.9/10
Comfort
8.9/10
Facilities
8.7/10
Free Wi-Fi
8.9/10
Location
8.8/10
Staff
9.7/10
Value for money
8.5/10
Guest reviews
based on 354 reviews
9.3/10
based on 232 reviews
8.8/10
Victoria from United Kingdom
Double Room Private Bathroom
2 nights in November 2025
|
Reviewed: February 01, 2026
9.0/10

a lovely norfolk experience

friendly staffnice decorfreestanding bathhearty breakfast
staff were friendly and helpful. the room had nice decor and included a fabulous freestanding bath. the hearty breakfast offered a good start to the day. the fish options are fresh and tasty.
the shower room needed some tlc, showing slight wear and tear in places.
Facilities
9/10
ample parking spaces were available outside the building, providing easy access. the village pub setting created a comfortable atmosphere. staff demonstrated a cute, helpful approach to guests.
Dining
9/10
portions at all meals were very generous, presenting great value. the restaurant was quite busy, a testament to its popularity. ingredients tasted fresh, pointing to a focus on quality.
0 Helpful
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Alexander from United Kingdom
Family with children
standard double room
3 nights in November 2025
|
Reviewed: January 14, 2026
9.0/10

lovely food and excellent service

attentive staffgenerous portionsample parking
i found the staff attentive and friendly throughout my stay. the food was excellent, i particularly enjoyed the generous portions. the location worked well for exploring the surrounding area with ample parking available.
the room was warm however i could not adjust the radiator in the bathroom.
Rooms
9/10
the standard double room featured a comfortable bed and fresh linens. there was ample space for luggage and personal items. the bathroom included complimentary toiletries and fluffy towels.
Dining
9/10
breakfast offered a variety of options including a full english breakfast. dinner portions were quite generous and the ingredients seemed very fresh. the restaurant had a lively atmosphere and attentive service.
Location
9/10
the hotel is conveniently located for exploring nearby attractions and the norfolk coast. it is a short drive to electric forecourt which is useful for ev owners. parking is plentiful and easy to access.
0 Helpful
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Lily from United Kingdom
Couple
Double Room Private Bathroom
3 nights in November 2025
|
Reviewed: January 08, 2026
9.0/10

a romantic retreat

warm staffspacious roomexquisite meals
The staff showed genuine warmth. Their welcome reminded me of a tender embrace. our room was spacious with such comfort. the restaurant served exquisite meals, and even our furry friend received the warmest reception and a breakfast sausage! we enjoyed a river walk just outside the hotel.
a few areas showed some dust, it's hardly a blemish on such a beautiful stay.
Dining
9/10
The restaurant features a varied menu with plenty of local fresh fish. It ensures a taste of the region. generous portions are prepared with care. Breakfast includes hearty options, it starts the day perfectly. service is attentive and personal.
Rooms
9/10
The room had a modern design, it felt cozy and inviting. It provided relaxation. the ensuite shower room included well-appointed features. The bed was adorned with soft linens, it promised restful sleep. tea and coffee were provided.
Facilities
9/10
Ample parking is available right outside. This makes arrival and departure simple. the outdoor space behind the building invites guests to relax. It provides a serene escape. the circular river walk offers exploration.
0 Helpful
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Stella from Italy
Couple
Double Room Private Bathroom
3 nights in November 2025
|
Reviewed: December 16, 2025
9.5/10

Charming stay!

friendly staffgenerous portionswonky blind
The staff was very friendly and cute (a big plus for me). I found the food to be of good quality and the portions were generous. The room was spacious and beautiful. It.
The window blind in the room was wonky when lowered, which gave the room a neglected feel. I also noticed the plywood lining at the top of the window recess was coming away.
Dining
9/10
The evening meals offered large servings, satisfying after a long day exploring. Breakfast was also excellent. It provided a hearty start to the day with a variety of options, including locally sourced fresh fish.
Service
10/10
The staff were attentive and always eager to provide great service as a guest. They treated dogs as valued guests too, which I found thoughtful (as I love dogs!).
0 Helpful
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Jackson from Australia
Single
Double Room Private Bathroom
3 nights in November 2025
|
Reviewed: December 09, 2025
8.5/10

Fantastic Food and Attentive Service!

attentive staffgreat servicegenerous portionshower overflow
The staff was really attentive. They provided great service . The food on offer was top notch!!! I also enjoyed a fantastic choice with plenty of it. The portions were very generous. I certainly didn't leave hungry!!!
The shower room needed some TLC. I was a bit disappointed since I had heard it was one of the better rooms. The shower overflowed, and the water got all over the floor.
Dining
9/10
The breakfast was excellent. There was a good selection of booze available. The sausages, however, were only browned on one side. The bottom of the sausages were nearly raw, but the breakfast overall was still really filling.
Facilities
8/10
The room was nice and clean. It was a very busy place. I noticed the atmosphere was great. I found my room to be comfortable. I slept very well. I had a fantastic stay!!!
0 Helpful
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Molly from Ireland
Couple
Double Room Private Bathroom
3 nights in November 2025
|
Reviewed: December 06, 2025
9.3/10

Wonderful food and friendly service

comfortable roomgreat fooddog welcome
The staff were really warm. The room was big and comfortable (I especially liked the bath!). The food in the restaurant tasted great. It was a huge bonus we could take our dog with us. He even got a sausage for breakfast. Breakfast was great.
Rooms
9/10
The double room included a comfortable bed. The bathroom was spacious. It featured a full-sized tub to relax in after a long day of travelling, which i appreciated.
Service
10/10
The staff were friendly and accommodating. They gave our dog a warm welcome. Breakfast service was prompt, and the team was ready to accommodate requests.
Location
9/10
The hotel's location is central to many tourist attractions. A circular river walk is also on the doorstep (what a treat!). This is ideal for exploring the surrounding areas.
0 Helpful
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FAQs
About Recruiting Sergeant
What are the check-in and check-out times at Recruiting Sergeant?
Check-in is from 14:00 and check-out is by 10:30.
How far is Recruiting Sergeant from Norwich International Airport?
The hotel is located 5 km from Norwich International Airport.
What dining options are available at Recruiting Sergeant?
The hotel features a restaurant offering British, French, and Seafood cuisine, with vegetarian, dairy-free, and vegan options available upon request.
Are pets allowed at Recruiting Sergeant?
Pets are allowed at the hotel.
Does Recruiting Sergeant offer free Wi-Fi?
Free Wi-Fi is available throughout the hotel.
What amenities are provided in the rooms at Recruiting Sergeant?
Rooms are equipped with a flat-screen TV, coffee/tea making facilities, and en suite bath/shower rooms with complimentary toiletries.
How far is Recruiting Sergeant from nearby attractions like Blickling Hall?
The hotel is located 14 km from Blickling Hall.
What services are available for families at Recruiting Sergeant?
The hotel offers a children's menu and a family-friendly atmosphere.
Is there parking available at Recruiting Sergeant?
Public parking is available on-site for free without reservation.
What is the distance from Recruiting Sergeant to University of East Anglia?
The hotel is located 16 km from the University of East Anglia.
What is one of the nearby restaurants to Recruiting Sergeant?
Ali Spice is located 0.5 km from the hotel.

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Rooms and Guests2 Guests, 1 Room