The Crown Inn, Stoke By Nayland – Review

Reopened in November 2003, The Crown Inn in Stoke by Nayland has grown to become one of Suffolk`s best known fine dining restaurants and boutique hotels. The hotel element was launched in 2008 and took 12 months to complete. Having heard some rather impressive things about the restaurant we were dead keen to see for ourselves just what all the fuss was about.

The Crown is situated about 40 minutes from the M25 and getting there is in itself a pleasurable drive with quaint country villages and rural mansions scattered across the scenic countryside. On arrival it became immediately apparent just how highly regarded the restaurant is as the car park was packed – always a good sign!

The hotel element is neatly tucked away at the back of the original inn (now restaurant) and from a design perspective, beautifully in keeping with the surrounding houses and buildings in the village. The style of decoration has clearly been invested in with abundant neutral colours perfectly complimenting each other throughout – great attention to every detail also.

We were upgraded to a deluxe room which was absolutely exquisite. We had double doors opening onto unspoilt views across Suffolk`s finest farmland, and although it was teaming down with rain we were still suitably impressed. Our room was complete with everything you could want from a hotel room including a mini bar, complimentary tea and coffee, a very comfortable bed, DVD and LCD TV (with all digital channels) and a selection of magazines to read at your leisure (to name just a few features).

The bathroom was equally impressive with under floor heating, a deep bath and rain head shower.

We ate at the restaurant in the evening, which we`d heard so much about. The restaurant is renowned for its selection of fine wines… and boy do they have a few! Great thought has clearly gone into pairing wines with courses on the menu. A great idea.

We started with the salt and pepper squid which was about as fresh as squid can get and absolutely delicious. For mains we opted for the fish and chips, which, was once again faultless, fresh and generous in portion, and the home made burger, which was perfectly tender and bursting with flavour.

What`s really apparent about this place is that the staff are incredibly receptive, passionate and knowledgeable about the venue, menu and wines.

If you`re looking for a countryside escape then you really can`t go far wrong with The Crown. It was an absolute pleasure to review. Thank you.