What Is a Brasserie? Dining with a Twist in Norfolk

The word brasserie evokes a certain kind of dining experience – relaxed yet refined, comforting yet creative. But what exactly is a brasserie? And how does Barnham Broom’s take on this classic concept reflect the best of Norfolk’s culinary scene?

Whether you’re a foodie seeking flavour, a traveller looking for local taste, or a hotel guest searching for a memorable evening meal, The Brasserie at Barnham Broom offers a modern twist on tradition – and a dining experience worth travelling for.

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What Is a Brasserie?

Originating in France, a brasserie is traditionally a lively, informal restaurant serving hearty dishes, local beers, and wines in a relaxed, social setting. It sits somewhere between a café and a fine dining restaurant – offering high-quality food without the formality or price tag of haute cuisine.

Over time, the brasserie evolved beyond its Parisian roots. Today, it blends classic European influences with regional ingredients, adapting to its setting while staying true to the spirit of warm, accessible hospitality.

At Barnham Broom, that means locally sourced, seasonally inspired menus served in a welcoming space – elegant enough for a celebration, yet relaxed enough for a casual dinner after a day on the golf course or in the spa.

The Brasserie at Barnham Broom: A Norfolk Take on the Classic

Barnham Broom’s brasserie delivers on all fronts: setting, service and above all, flavour. The space itself balances modern design with rustic charm – soft lighting, comfortable seating, and views across the Norfolk countryside. The atmosphere is informal yet attentive, making it a favourite among guests and locals alike.

But the real star is the food. Drawing on Norfolk’s abundant natural larder, the menu champions fresh produce, locally raised meats, artisan cheeses and coastal catches. Think slow-roasted lamb, wild mushrooms, pan-seared sea bass, and inventive vegetarian dishes that highlight seasonal vegetables.

From hand-crafted starters to decadent puddings, each dish reflects the kitchen’s attention to quality and presentation. Portions are generous but balanced, with ingredients allowed to shine rather than being overshadowed by gimmicks.

Perfect for Every Occasion

One of the key strengths of the brasserie format is its versatility – and Barnham Broom fully embraces that. Whether you’re:

• Celebrating an anniversary
• Catching up with friends over lunch
• Looking for a romantic dinner during your spa break
• Dining solo with a good book after a round of golf

…you’ll feel equally at home. The team ensures a relaxed pace, thoughtful service and just the right level of attention.

There’s also a carefully selected wine list, featuring both Old and New World bottles, and a range of cocktails and non-alcoholic options. The bar area offers a great place to enjoy an aperitif or wind down after your meal.

Seasonal Dining and Local Collaboration

One of the brasserie’s standout features is its seasonally changing menu, which keeps the dining experience fresh for returning guests and encourages chefs to continually innovate.

Barnham Broom has also built strong relationships with local Norfolk producers, sourcing ingredients from nearby farms, markets and artisan suppliers. This not only reduces food miles but helps support the regional food economy.

If you’re visiting during special events or themed weekends, the brasserie often creates bespoke menus to mark the occasion – from Valentine’s dinners and Mother’s Day lunches to festive tasting menus.

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More Than a Hotel Restaurant

While many hotel restaurants cater primarily to in-house guests, Barnham Broom’s Brasserie is a destination in its own right. Locals from the Norwich area often book tables for Sunday lunch, weekday suppers, or celebrations, knowing they’ll receive consistently excellent food and service.

For those staying overnight, the convenience of having such a high-quality dining option just steps from your room is unbeatable – especially after a long day of golf, spa treatments or countryside exploration.

Final Thoughts

The Brasserie at Barnham Broom brings together the best elements of brasserie dining – comfort, creativity, and quality – while giving it a distinctly Norfolk identity. Whether you’re visiting for a weekend, celebrating something special, or simply passing through, the experience offers more than just a meal. It’s a chance to pause, savour and enjoy the moment.

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Golf Breaks in the UK: What to Expect & How to Book Smart

There’s something timeless about stepping onto a manicured fairway, taking a deep breath, and lining up that first drive. For many golfers, a short break dedicated to the game is not just a holiday — it’s a ritual. A chance to escape, recharge and focus on the rhythm of the sport in beautiful surroundings.

As demand for domestic golf holidays continues to grow, destinations like Barnham Broom in Norfolk are emerging as favourites for both keen amateurs and seasoned players. Set in 300 acres of picturesque countryside and boasting two championship-standard courses, Barnham Broom offers far more than just a round or two — it delivers a complete and rejuvenating experience for golf lovers.

The Modern Golf Break: Why Stay & Play Is Here to Stay

In the past, golf trips often meant long drives between hotels and courses, with logistics getting in the way of enjoyment. Today, the “stay and play” model is reshaping the golf break. Convenience, comfort, and on-site amenities have become just as important as course quality.

Barnham Broom exemplifies this trend. Located just outside Norwich, it offers two distinctly different 18-hole golf courses — The Valley Course, a picturesque parkland layout threading through the River Yare valley, and The Hill Course, a more open challenge with elevated tees and wide Norfolk skies. The ability to play both without leaving the estate is part of what makes this destination so compelling.

Golf at Barnham Broom

Playing the Courses: Character, Challenge and Consistency

Every golfer looks for that balance between challenge and reward. At Barnham Broom, both courses have been carefully designed to provide strategic interest and year-round playability. The Valley Course, considered the more technical of the two, rewards thoughtful club selection and offers natural water features that add to its complexity and charm.

The Hill Course is a more forgiving option for high-handicappers or those seeking a relaxed pace — yet its open layout leaves room for the wind to play a role, giving even experienced players something to think about. Whichever you choose, the quality of the greens and fairways, along with the attention to detail, are consistently praised by returning guests.

Where Hospitality Meets the Fairway

What makes a golf break memorable isn’t only what happens on the course — it’s the experience that surrounds it. At Barnham Broom, the service begins long before the first tee and continues well beyond the 18th hole.

Guests are welcomed into spacious, elegant rooms that provide comfort and tranquillity. Many overlook the courses themselves, offering a seamless link between relaxation and recreation. Deep baths, crisp bedding and thoughtful touches ensure that even non-golfing companions feel pampered.

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The culinary offering is equally impressive. The Brasserie at Barnham Broom serves seasonal, locally inspired menus in a sophisticated yet relaxed setting, while the Sports Bar offers casual meals in a more laid-back atmosphere — ideal for analysing your round over a pint. Both deliver on quality and service, ensuring that evenings are just as enjoyable as days on the course.

Dining at Barnham Broom

Beyond the Green: Spa, Wellness and the Art of Unwinding

For those who see a golf break as an opportunity to unwind, the hotel’s wellness facilities provide the perfect counterbalance to an active day. The spa at Barnham Broom offers a range of treatments — from restorative massages to facials — designed to soothe both mind and body.

Leisure facilities also include a heated indoor pool, sauna, and a well-equipped gym, meaning you can warm down after your round or simply enjoy a slower pace between games.

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Making the Most of Your Golf Break: Insider Tips

Planning a golf getaway doesn’t need to be complicated. At Barnham Broom, smart booking means taking advantage of dedicated golf break packages, which combine accommodation, meals, and tee times into one seamless experience. These packages often provide the best value — and free up more of your time to enjoy the course.

It’s also worth considering a mid-week stay, especially during spring and autumn, when the courses are at their most scenic and availability is higher. For groups or corporate bookings, the hotel’s team can tailor itineraries to ensure everyone gets the most from the trip.

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A Golf Destination for All Occasions

Whether you’re marking a birthday with a group of friends, planning a solo retreat, or mixing business with leisure, Barnham Broom offers the flexibility and professionalism to accommodate your needs. The environment is welcoming for all levels of player — competitive or casual — and non-golfing partners will find plenty to enjoy as well.

With easy road access from London and the Midlands, and just 20 minutes from Norwich, it’s both a secluded retreat and a practical choice.

Final Thoughts

A great golf break is about more than just good weather and open fairways. It’s about the seamless blend of play, rest and reward. At Barnham Broom, this balance is masterfully achieved. With two exceptional courses, elegant hospitality and a setting that invites both challenge and calm, it’s no wonder many guests return year after year.

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Overnight Spa Breaks for Couples: What to Pack & What to Expect

When life gets busy, few things feel as restorative – or as romantic – as an overnight spa break. For couples looking to reconnect, unwind, and escape the everyday, a well-designed spa weekend offers the perfect blend of indulgence and intimacy.

At Barnham Broom, set in 300 acres of Norfolk countryside just 30 minutes from Norwich, couples can relax in style with tailored spa experiences, luxury accommodation, and exceptional dining – all wrapped in the stillness of rural England.

Why Spa Breaks Are the Perfect Couple’s Escape

Spa breaks aren’t just about treatments and robes – they’re about time. Time to switch off. Time to reconnect. And time to slow down together.

Whether you’re marking an anniversary, celebrating a special occasion, or simply needing a reset, the setting makes all the difference. At Barnham Broom, the pace is calm, the views are wide, and every experience is designed to help you and your partner unwind.

The resort is within easy reach of London, Cambridge, and the Midlands, making it an ideal destination for couples who want a countryside escape without travelling far.

What to Expect from a Couples’ Spa Break at Barnham Broom

Every detail at Barnham Broom has been thoughtfully designed to support rest and wellbeing – from its modern spa facilities to its indulgent overnight packages.

Here’s what you can expect:

• A heated 11m indoor pool, bubble pool, steam room, and sauna
• Five treatment rooms, including a dedicated dual treatment suite for couples
• ESPA treatments: from full-body massages and facials to body wraps and exfoliations
• Complimentary use of Edge Health & Fitness Club, with gym, tennis and squash courts
• Use of luxury towels, robes, and slippers during your visit
• Romantic spa packages that include overnight stays, three-course dinners, breakfast, and optional afternoon tea

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What to Pack for a Romantic Spa Weekend

Packing for a spa break is part of the anticipation – and it’s easier than you think. Here’s a list of essentials to help you arrive relaxed and ready:

• Swimwear for the pool and thermal suite
• Flip-flops or spa sliders for comfort between facilities
• Lounge wear or cosy clothes for relaxing in your room
• Smart-casual outfit for dinner or drinks at the restaurant
• A good book or playlist for the relaxation lounge
• Reusable water bottle to stay hydrated
• Optional extras: face masks, essential oils, or champagne to enjoy in your room

Robes, towels and slippers are included as part of your spa break package, so no need to pack your own.

Making the Most of Your Stay

To fully enjoy your couples’ spa retreat, a few simple tips can elevate the experience:

• Arrive early and allow time to enjoy the facilities before your treatment
• Pre-book treatments – especially on weekends or during peak seasons
• Unplug from devices to truly switch off
• Explore extras like a round of golf, afternoon tea, or even a countryside walk
• Look out for offers to upgrade your stay with added value

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Book Your Couples’ Spa Retreat at Barnham Broom

Whether you’re after a romantic recharge or a luxurious celebration, a couples’ spa break at Barnham Broom offers everything you need: peace, privacy, pampering, and a setting designed for relaxation.

Step away from the routine. Soak in the stillness. And spend quality time together in one of Norfolk’s most refined spa destinations.

Plan your overnight spa escape today:

What Makes a Great Sports Bar? Atmosphere, Screens & Cold Pints

Whether it’s the roar of a last-minute goal, the crackle of rugby anticipation, or the high-octane drama of a Grand Prix, watching live sport is better when shared. And while streaming at home is easy, there’s still nothing quite like the buzz of a great sports bar.

But what actually makes a sports bar stand out? It’s more than just a screen and a pint. At Barnham Broom’s Sports Bar in Norfolk, everything from the setup to the menu has been crafted to make match days memorable – whether you’re a local, a resort guest, or passing through for the weekend.

More Than Just a Game – Why Sports Bars Still Matter

In a world of on-demand viewing, sports bars remain vital for fans. Why? Because they offer something the living room can’t: atmosphere.

The tension of a penalty shoot-out. The unified cheer as a driver takes the lead. The sighs, the jokes, the friendly debates. Watching in a sports bar creates a communal experience – one that brings strangers together and turns matches into moments.

And let’s be honest: it’s always better with a proper drink and some pub grub.

What to Look for in a Brilliant Sports Bar

If you’re choosing where to watch the match, these are the essentials:

• Plenty of HD screens with strong sightlines – no craning your neck
• Spacious, comfy seating – not just standing room at the bar
• A quality food menu – burgers, wings, loaded chips, not just peanuts
• Cold pints and real ales – with options for non-drinkers too
• A buzzing but balanced atmosphere – fun, not frantic
• Coverage of major sports – football, F1, rugby, cricket, golf
• A welcoming vibe for solo fans, groups, or casual watchers 

A great sports bar isn’t just for die-hards – it’s for everyone who enjoys the game, the chat, and the occasion.

Why Barnham Broom’s Sports Bar Delivers

Tucked within the wider Barnham Broom resort, the Sports Bar is a hidden gem in Norfolk’s sporting and social scene. It ticks every box – with a few bonuses.

Here’s what makes it stand out:

• Multiple HD screens broadcasting major fixtures including the Premier League, Champions League, F1, international rugby, cricket, and golf
• Spacious seating designed for comfort – whether you’re with a group or flying solo
• A strong food and drink menu, featuring classic bar snacks, hearty mains, and local ales
• Relaxed atmosphere – lively enough for energy, calm enough for conversation
• Open to everyone – guests, golfers, locals and visiting fans
• Outdoor terrace for a drink in the sun before or after the match
• Plenty of free parking, so no travel stress 

This isn’t just a screen in the corner of a noisy pub. It’s a dedicated space with the fixtures, facilities and food to back it up.

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Watch the Match Your Way

Whether you’re cheering on your team, catching the Six Nations with mates, or winding down after 18 holes of golf, Barnham Broom’s Sports Bar is the place to do it. The atmosphere is welcoming, the service is friendly, and the pints are served cold.

Looking for a sports bar near Norwich that’s more than just functional? You’ve found it.

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Book Your Matchday Spot

Live sport is meant to be shared – and at Barnham Broom, it’s shared in comfort.

Grab a seat, order a pint, and catch all the action in one of Norfolk’s best-kept matchday secrets.

From Tee to Table: Why Barnham Broom is a Top Destination for Food-Loving Golfers

For golf lovers, few things rival a day on the course – except, perhaps, the promise of an exceptional meal waiting afterwards. At Barnham Broom in the heart of Norfolk, those two passions come together seamlessly. With championship golf, an acclaimed Brasserie, and tranquil countryside surroundings, it’s a go-to retreat for anyone seeking a break that blends sport, flavour, and rest in equal measure.

Championship Golf in the Norfolk Countryside

Barnham Broom is home to two immaculate 18-hole golf courses: the Valley and the Hill. These offer varied landscapes, challenging layouts, and some of the best-maintained greens in the region.

Whether you’re working on your handicap or enjoying a casual round with friends, the courses are designed to engage and inspire all skill levels.

With professional coaching available and a pro shop on-site, it’s easy to tailor your golfing experience – be it a short break or a dedicated training weekend.

Dining That Deserves a Round of Applause

What sets Barnham Broom apart from many UK golf resorts is the calibre of its dining. The Brasserie is open for breakfast, afternoon tea, and dinner, serving modern British cuisine made with local Norfolk produce. Menus change seasonally and might include dishes like Norfolk lamb with rosemary jus, fresh Cromer crab, or indulgent sticky toffee pudding.

For something lighter or more casual, the Sports Bar offers classic comfort food and drinks – perfect for a post-round pint or relaxed lunch between games.

Ideal for Golf & Gourmet Breaks

What makes Barnham Broom so attractive for foodie golfers is the balance of quality and convenience. You can play a full round in the morning, enjoy a drink in the lounge, unwind with a massage in the spa, and then savour a three-course meal without ever leaving the grounds.

Paired with spacious, stylish rooms overlooking the countryside, the whole experience feels easy and elevated – without the fuss of navigating traffic or booking external restaurants.

Tailored Packages & Group Offers

Barnham Broom offers a variety of golf and dining packages, including overnight stays with breakfast and dinner, reduced green fees, and group discounts. Whether you’re planning a weekend with friends, a special occasion break, or a corporate retreat, the hotel can help tailor your stay to suit your party’s needs.

These packages are ideal for:

• Couples seeking a relaxing but active escape
• Friends booking an annual golf trip with added luxury
• Corporate groups wanting to mix leisure and hospitality

At Barnham Broom, the connection between golf and gastronomy is more than a bonus—it’s the heart of the experience. Whether you come for the challenge of the course, the richness of the cuisine, or simply to recharge in peaceful countryside surroundings, you’ll leave with more than just a good scorecard.

Book your golf and gourmet escape today and discover why Barnham Broom is a standout destination for food-loving golfers.