Alby Tea rooms in North Norfolk

Have eaten here 3 times in as many weeks - breakfasts and lunch. It is wonderful. Loads of parking, great friendly service, outdoor seating available and take away. It is a real treat - a must try. Scones are exceptional!!!!

The venue is really lovely as you walk in and all the staff greeted us and were attentive. We didn’t have a booking but they were more than happy to push two tables together to accommodate us. We ordered the hasselback potato, omelette and tempura battered fish fingers. Then we followed this up with an array for delicious cakes. All the food we had was great but most of all we’d like to thank ALL of the staff who helped with the little incident we had. Thank you. Great service deserves to be recognised. We will be back with hopefully a less eventful lunchtime experience.

The staff here are the most cheerful, friendly and accommodating I have met in a long time. All smiling, doing their jobs promptly and efficiently. Our food was very tasty and delightfully fresh, just as described. A lovely place for a meal and a chat. The craft shops are crammed full of delights too.

We stopped off here for lunch today, this is the first time for some years and we wish we had made the effort sooner, The cafe is just fantastic a really lovely little place, very clean and decorated, the service from the staff was exceptional so polite and welcoming, the food as far as we are concerned is Michelin stared absolutely fantastic. You can rest assured that we will attend more often now we are both retired. A very big Thank you to all the staff. Merry Christmas and Happy New Year. See you soon Mike and Wendy.

A fabulous place to visit! We hadn’t been here for quite some time and I must say that the customer service here, not to mention the food, is simply outstanding. This place has a really nice atmosphere and the staff are quite simply amazing. From meet & greeting you at the door to departure they are very friendly and welcoming. The shops surrounding the cafe are well worth a visit but this place is a real gem.

This was a casual visit during a day trip out along the Norfolk coastline. There are several craft shops nearby that initially drew us in but finding the tearoom was a real find. The owner welcomed us in immediately and indeed acknowledged everyone that stepped through the door. The cafe was clean, well presented and whilst we stood at the counter he made the effort to explain where some of the produce were from and offered us several accompaniments should we make a particular choice. Just what an owner should be doing. The food was wonderfully fresh and tasty, the tea (Assam) was fresh and perfect. My only critisicm ( and I hope this does not offend them), the cakes were displayed on a low level table uncovered and there were flies buzzing around. The waitress promptly covered them with cling film. A simple remedy would be to find a glass cover and perhaps consider another cold counter to keep the cakes at their best. They are also easily accessible to a child and as the school holidays are upon us the opportunity for children to touch this food has increased. Parents and the staff may well be too busy to keep a tab on this. Apart from this I loved it. Tearoom being a tearoom and the lunch menu discreetly added near lunchtime just ticks all the boxes for me. Good luck to you all, you deserve to succeed.

This is such a lovely destination. The Gardens are well worth a visit and the shops are full of lovely stuff you won’t find anywhere else. For refreshments, we were lucky enough to get a bench outside in the sunshine. The Hot Cross Bun-flavoured flapjack was seriously scrummy – genuinely the best flapjack we’ve ever tasted. Ever. The coffee was pretty fabulous too. We got a warm welcome from the gentleman at the door, and speedy, smiley service from the young ladies behind the counter and to our table. Do yourself a favour and head here.

11.30, midweek visit. Even though tables were booked, the attentive staff greeted us immediately we stood at the entrance (relief not to be left stood looking daft), and showed us to a table provided we vacated it in time for the booking - of course we could. Café inside is modern, clean and buzzing with chatter. Choice of homemade cakes was most agreeable. But for us it was the service that stood out, so friendly, helpful, timely and aware that a positive visit isn’t only about the fab food.

New to the area. Just moved in. Looking for a good coffee and a tasty cheese scone. Menu looked great and decided for the waffle... someone else’s cheese scone looked fabulous.. but not a wrong choice. See pic. Coffees could be larger but excellent quality. Staff very pleasant. Very good service. After lockdown a great find.

I rarely write a review but have to make a comment on how rude to man who meets and greets you, food also was odd ordered a fish finger sandwich and was a odd piece of fish grilled on toast. Will not return Another comment had to wait to pay 15 mins and the man greeting pushed a lady in front of me pay first again very rude!

Lovly breakfast will be going back , social distancing was good . Very friendly people and lots to see around the craft workshops . Have a go at making something in Willow , lovely teacher , it was very interesting

Went today for lunch with my son a friend and her son. We all had crispy chilli beef loaded fries which was absolutely scrummy!!!! Service was great as always polite and friendly and atmosphere is quirky and interesting. Coffee was really good too thoroughly enjoyed our afternoon!

Wow! Hadn't been to the Alby Craft's tea room for many a year and the new owners have transformed it. Quirky decoration with table or alcove armchair seating. Amazing 1/2 pizza and salad platter - we chose no chips. He had meat, I had veggie. Both were tasty. Decent coffee too - none of your weak stuff. Excellent price too. It's most definitely back on the places to have lunch or, from the look of the scones and tartlets, afternoon tea. Do support. Outdoor courtyard for when fine or if have dogs as not sure if allowed in cafe.

Recently visited the Tea Room.. had the delicious cheese scones. However, looked at the menus on the table and they were greasy, grubby and the brownish smaller one was dirty and greasy and even had biro scribbled on it, as though someone had tried their pen on it. As we had eaten in there before and had the cheese scones there was no need to handle the menus, but please give this some priority and replace them!!! The staff need to be more friendly and SMILE!

Sadly dissatisfied, under new management and portions size of cakes down by a 1/3. I ordered potato skins with chilli and they were very small , resembling mushrooms For £6:95 I was shocked for a lunch. I could have bought fish n chips for less. Sadly not up to par. Coffee good and service ok too . But need to rethink the menu

Dirty cups and poor service. Cups replaced but when I added milk to the coffee it curdled. Waitress said it was caused by the oil in the coffee!! What is that about? Coffee unpleasant. Butter with the cheese scone was spread not butter. Will not be returning.

Visited recently for lunch and was disappointed. It was so cold. I know it’s January but it’s not unreasonable to expect a tea room to be heated. The decor is very dated, dusty and tired. I had fish cakes which were not well cooked, very bland and I didn’t eat them. Nice chips though. It was disappointing that I wasn’t asked the customary ‘Was everything alright for you?’ That aside there was a wonderful choice of cakes and the coffee was good so I’d like to return for that.

Alby Tea Rooms gets better and better. Excellent coffee (the best flat white in the area we suggest) and cake (with several gluten free options), with the option of taking your drink to one of several little oddly-furnished nooks, lots of quirky detail to look at and old books to browse. Lunch was also good. Opening days and times out of season perhaps need more clarity.

Arrived at 3.40. Sign outside tearoom said closing at 4. Asked for coffee & were told they had stopped serving. Mentioned that it was only 20 to 4 & girl ignored me.

We Spent a lovely afternoon here on way back from a 2 night stay at Roman Camp inn.What a delightful place to spend a relaxing afternoon the Craft shops are a delight to wander around , the tea room is nothing short of fascinating/ full of interest spent ages looking at all the interesting things there, before having our lunch bought to us in the delightful seating area outside. We then spent the rest of the afternoon wandering around the beautiful, very well maintained gardens . ( just hope the lovely lady gardener managed to locate Lesley who we were told was a peacock,but didn’t think he was one! preferring the company of people,! as opposed to being with the other peacocks.Will definitely will return in the Autumn, to see the gardens dressed in there Autumn colours, and have been informed Sunday lunches there are great !!

Visited the place two years ago. Rubbish service then, rubbish service two years later.No greeting upon entering.No clear details of how to order.No children’s menu.Long wait (despite it being very quiet and several members of staff - most of which seemed unhappy to be there)Baguette came out with what looked like lipstick on it!The supposed ‘child sized’ baguette was the same size as mine, an adults, and cost the same. I tried some of my husband’s salad and half way through found a hair in it. Sat in the direct eye line of the kitchen and saw one of the waitresses sitting on the kitchen counter.. apparent 5 star food hygiene rating? I wonder how with the hair, weird stain on my baguette and the lounging around on kitchen surfaces.This place just had an air of arrogance about it. The ‘retro’ interior is supposed to trick you into thinking you’re going to get a quirky dining experience with some decent food and service. Nope. No chance. Hasn’t changed in two years and I said we would likely not return back then.... no chance of that happening again!

I visited the Alby tea room with a group of friends last week. Most of us ate something with chips, mine was ham and eggs, hubby's scampi. Everybody enjoyed their meals. It was very busy, probably because it was school holidays but the staff coped well. Definitely worth another visit!

I'll take any excuse to go here. When I need to get some work done alone this is a great place to relax and get some quite.

Stopped for lunch and it was a great find. Friendly service, good food and a lovely location. The building is quirky inside in a very good way. Outside seating in the courtyard is good. Great stop while exploring the range of craft shops and Alby gardens.

Visited for coffee and cake which was very pleasant although expensive. Decor is vintage musical themed with lots of vinyls and other musical instruments hanging from the walls and ceiling - the trouble with this is it gathers lots of cobwebs, feels cluttered and dark. Doubtful that we will visit again or recommend due to it being so expensive. I would imagine its trade is one-off visits from tourists.

Simplemente me encanta este peculiar tearoom única. . La comida es estupenda. Sus tartas. especialmente. . Y poco rincones para sentarse. . . La decoración es impresionante. Muy ingeniosamente juntas con vintage y antigüedades. . . Algunos se pueden comprar. . . . . . El personal es siempre alegre y servicial. . . Se podría pasar todo el día aquí. . Y simplemente. a pocas millas de donde vivimos. También tiendas con regalos únicos en el patio. .

Mi amigo y yo fuimos para el almuerzo a mitad de semana. No estaba muy lleno, pero el servicio era mediocre y un momento en el que el camarero caminamos todo el restaurante con una bandeja de bebidas gritando " chocolate caliente, dos cafés cualquiera, cualquiera? "Para ser justos el almuerzo fue bien, tuve quiche y ensalada de patata y mi amigo tenía chaqueta y la ensalada era muy agradable. Después pedimos torta de zanahoria, Coca Cola y agua. El agua nunca llegó incluso después de dos peticiones. La torta de zanahoria era incomible. . No cocinamos en el medio. Un anciano caballero nos preguntó cómo a la orden no había menús. Le dijimos que tenía que mirar en las ofertas especiales. Nos dijo que era un chef en el Dorchester hace 30 años y no creo que mucho el servicio. De hecho, él nos levantamos y nunca estuve para el almuerzo. Una pena, ya que los salones de té son únicas, pero las dos chicas llamado 'eran patéticas.

El Alby Tea Rooms es un bistro Cafe - Venga - ofrecen calidad barista café estilo, una variedad de tés, tartas caseras, el mejor, y podrá probar un menú de comida consistente de almuerzos ligeros.

Booked a table here for the pizza night having had lunch a few months ago and enjoyed it. The pizzas were excellent with a few chips as a side. An excellent change to the usual pub fare.

¡Guau! Este lugar ha aumentado su juego realmente, fui hoy, con mi madre, de mirar las tiendas y jardines, cuando nos dimos cuenta del té habían remodelado decidimos entrar para café y pastel, qué revelación, es perfecto! ! Cualquiera que haya sido a biddys salones de té en la ciudad le encantará este lugar, es raro pero mucho mejor! ! ! Privado acogedor lugares para sentarse, personal amable, limpio, agradable música, el café y la mejor tarta que he tenido en mi vida! (no viene ligeramente me el chef de 20 años, y hornear fue uno de mis amores) sin duda volveremos, me sentí tan relajado aquí, creo que he conseguido este justo. Os recomiendo hacer una parada en el camino a Cromer o Sheringham y tener tarta antes de llegar allí, porque no había donde no este bien en esos lugares! ! !

Gran lugar para té o café, el único inconveniente era la música y no hay sombra en la zona de comer fuera, aparte de que sus nueve de cada diez.

Mi equipo de hockey y yo tuvimos nuestra cena de Navidad en el Alby té habitaciones la semana pasada y me gustaría decir que cada bocado de comida era perfecto! Se completa con un ambiente tranquilo y acogedor, fue una noche fabulosa. El personal era una delicia! Altamente recomendado para una Navidad, o simplemente una cena informal café!

Un grupo de 24 de nosotros fuimos a celebrar la Navidad. Lo que una noche increíble! La comida era totalmente deliciosos la col roja era para morirse!

We had an excellent Xmas 3 course dinner here for nearly 30 people, the food was all fresh, local and delicious. A great quirky little establishment, all the staff really helpful and friendly.A huge thank you for providing a great selection of gluten free options throughout the meal.

We went today for Sunday lunch and had the roast brisket dinner main course for £10 for the two of us. Beef, yorkshire pudding, roast potatoes, carrots, broccoli, red cabbage and delicious gravy. Excellent service and warm welcoming atmosphere.We would fully recommend this treasure, just off the A140, to everyone.

I can only agree with previous reviews this place is dreadful avoid at ll cost food is dreadful and service worse

I couldn't finish my soup as it was watery and tasteless. Group of 10 of us arrived and the majority asked for the roasted vegetable soup. Sounded good but this was definitely not the case. We did complain and an apology was given. I will definitely not return and will not recommend.

Having had a lovely walk in the area, a group of us decided to treat ourselves to lunch. There was very little choice but I went for the roasted vegetable soup and my husband had a sausage and onion baguette. Soup was absolutely dreadful - there was nothing nice about it at all. The sausage baguette was served cold with a limp piece of lettuce, there wasn't any onion. It wasn't cheap - £6.00 for the baguette and £5.95 for the soup. We did complain and were offered an apology. Some money back or even a coffee on the house would have been a nice gesture but neither was offered! We definitely will not return or recommend.

Me & my friend had trouble finding a place for lunch as we both have babies under the age of a year, so finding somewhere pushchair friendly is hard. We ended up here as we were close by and both hadn't been for years! Was a lovely place & all staff were friendly! We found a table with loads of space for the two pushchairs, we then ordered our lunch, 2 cheese & pickle baguettes. By the time we had both fed our daughters & got them settled we then realised we had waited 40 minutes for them.... I went & asked the young waitress where our lunch was & she quickly went & checked. Two seconds later she comes out with what was the wrong sandwich, we watched that food get walked around the cafe to 2 different tables, when it was for the table right next to us! What i pressure was the manager came over & apologised & said 'the ticket got lost under the cooker' We were both starving so agreed to wait! 10 minutes later a whole baguette, with no garnish got plunked on our table. (the previous wrong baguette was cut with salad) It was a cheese baguette, with what i can only describe as a cold lumpy potato tomato soup, with hunks of onion put onto. It was absolutely disgusting!! My friend is actually allergic to tomato!! When i went back to the 'manager' & told him we just wanted our money back & too leave, i got absolutely no eye contact, in fact he carried on typing on the computer, he eventually went & got a young boy from the kitchen, who he then explained that apparently the 'pickle was too garlicy??' They'd basically ran out & thought they could wing it! As i was still in shock of no apology, the young boy asked if there was anything else they could do, i looked at the manager & had to ask for an apology! After a couple of seconds he took his eyes off the computer & actually THANKED ME! i had to ask him 3 times for an apology, but nothing. As me & my friend was packing up to get out, he eventually came over with tons of 'sorrys' We explained we would never do this normally, but with an over hour wait for 2 baguettes which came out twice & two babies, who at this point were very agitated, we had to say something.... The tables next to us actually said that he wasn't sorry, as he walked away & that their food was cold (after being carried around the cafe) I am still now so shocked at how I got treated by this man & can honestly say I will never be returning & will definitely be telling people about this experience. I work in the trade so understand how it works. Rule 1, never let a customer leave unhappy, and unfortunately we did, and still am!

Always on our list to visit when in the area. The wonderful cakes on offer make you spoilt for choice that's without their lovely scones and other food.

Have been four times now for the pizza and steak nights. Pizzas are amazing. Fabulous toppings and a great salad bar. Nice bottle of red and not expensive. Great service.Steak night is brilliant. The best thick steak cooked to perfection with hand cut chips. And a great salad bar. And wine as part of the deal! It rocks!And the decor and music is fabulous. I hope they never change the decor.

possibly the most underrated cafe/tearooms in the Cromer area, its calm,clean ,relaxing and the cakes are to die for ,service is good, attitudes very good a very nice time out to enjoy, haven't done the gardens yet but the shops are also good. try it,,Kate n Alan

First visit to the Tea rooms after hearing good reports.On entering no eye contact from staff,we had to ask what the proceedure was,a big board with drinks above till but no indication what was for lunch,there was a great display of cakes.Only lunch available quiche or Pizza, ordered Brie and thyme quiche we were given it and told to help ourselves to salad,lots of lettuce,some pasta with dried tomato sauce and red cabbage coleslaw.whoever made the quiche did not put any cheese or thyme in it ,tasteless just egg,coleslaw purely just cabbage with watery Mayo, no place to put your plate whilst you lifted the covers off salad to serve yourself.Our pot of tea did not arrive til after we had finished eating brought by a very grumpy girl.Two other tables around us were bemused by the service they had received. Also bad value for money.Sorry T rooms I expected more.

Very nice, would recommend a visit, staff very good & friendly relaxed atmosphere. Pizza was really nice, & also salad & local cider a very enjoyable evening.

Menu varies, today I had the ham eggs and chips, just could not fault it. The wife had quiche and salad. Both were good value and so tasty. Good quality ingredients show.

After you have looked at all the lovely wooden & metal items for sale at Alby crafts, then you deserve a good rest to enjoy some refreshments & what better place to do that than their own tea rooms. The staff there are very friendly & there are many delicious cakes & other sweet meats to tempt you as well as some good coffee & tea or cold drinks & all at very reasonable prices.

I'm a regular visitor to the tea room during the week, so when they started doing pizza nights it seemed like an ideal opportunity to have a meal out. That weekend extended family were coming to stay and rather than cook, I decided to ask if Alby Tea Rooms (and Bistro) could cater for us all.We arrived in several smaller groups, and found a long table beautifully laid with breads and dipping oil ready, flowers decorating it and Alby's typical cheery retro music playing. Despite some of the group not arriving until after they should technically have closed, the staff kindly kept serving and did not rush us at all. I'd requested a gluten free pizza for a coeliac relative and this was no problem; it was even cooked separately to avoid contamination with flour from the pizza oven. To complicate matters further, one smaller member of our group wanted some plain pasta with a bit of olive oil; this was duly cooked and served without any issues. (It's worth pointing out that this place really is heaven for those with allergies or special dietary issues - all of the cakes are gluten free, and many of them are dairy and/or sugar free too).The pizzas were served in stages as, then, they only had one pizza oven and so could only cook two at a time, but this wasn't a problem for us as we were all happily chatting. They have some really interesting flavours on offer - I had chicken and mango, which was delicious.There are many reasons to recommend this fabulous place, during the day or in the evening; the setting is gorgeous, the staff are kind and friendly; there is a 'snug' with a little play kitchen area for the little ones - and yes, the food is great. Highly recommended!

We visited Friday evening for the new wood fire pizza night and it was fantastic. Excellent range of pizzas on offer made to order. Quick service and staff very attentive. Salad bar available with a great range of products. All in all a lovely evening with delicious food. It was very popular so booking essential!

Strangely it was the day the THE BEWARE comment was made. About her hot chocolate being spelled, we watched as she made a real meal over it, yes accidents happen, but I think the way the customers dealt with it, was rude and arrogant and demanded a refund . If that was me, I would have said don't worry. Here she was going on about her shoes and trousers, no marks seen. Melodies sighing !,,, saying that. The service was very slow, we had to clear our own table when we arrived. After looking in the gift shop after our yummy lunch half our later our table wasn't cleared. So food 4star. Service 2 star. My recommendations is get a front of house person in. Service very slow. But great simple lunch amazing cakes.

Visited the tea room today with my family and ordered hot drinks and cake. We sat out in the courtyard and our drinks were brought on a tray by a young girl and our cake by a small boy, probably around seven years of age. As the young girl placed the tray onto the table she knocked over the hot chocolate which was in a tall latte mug and it splashed over me including my face, luckily I was wearing glasses at the time and it didn't go in my eye, I asked for something cold and wet to put on my face as it was stinging and it took at least five minutes if not longer to get something. I was initially brought a dirty wet j cloth that had clearly been used to wipe spillages. I waited so long a kind lady at another table came over with tissues and offered to wet them for me. We asked for a refund because I wanted to leave as the hot chocolate was on my clothes and my husband was told 'accidents happen'. I agree totally with that statement however what I think is appalling is how long it took to react and provide something cold and wet for my face. When a member of staff finally came out to see me he apologised most insincerely he really didn't care at all and just reiterated that accidents happen. My advice would be to steer clear, not because of the accident but the appalling way it was dealt with.

Called in a couple of times while saying in the area. Lovely atmosphere (enjoyed the music!) and food. Definitely worth a visit.

Just popped back for 1st time since Olly left and although there were some issues I loved the food. I think a menu might be good idea more than just the blackboard, I only say that as none of the choices on the black board had roast potatoes in them yet there was a fresh bowl of roast pots sat on the counter and even the member of staff I asked didnt know which dish they came with. Also when we left there was a couple eating what looked like a lovely big roll with chips and egg inside yet even on the blackboard there were "roll choices" , why are you expecting people to know you do rolls if this choice is not listed? Anyhow, I placed my order and asked for some roast spuds but never got any & also asked for a spare plate for my littlest & never got one! The food was gorgeous and very simple, my partner had a Farmhouse Brunch and I had Gammon egg n chips. It was that good I had to enquire about the gammon after and asked whether the chips were twice or thrice cooked as they were possibly the best chips ive ever had which for any chip is a remarkable achievement! We were brought out some choc muffin pieces as a compliment from the lady baker which was a nice touch. Prices were decent too. They have also made 2 very retro rooms for couples having a wee drink and there is a table which is a blackboard with chalks for a family with kids! All in all I could easily take a point or 2 away like so many reviewers do, but menu & the confusion of food on offer which isnt on offer but is aside! I am going to give full marks, its a cafe at the end of the day not fine dining, its making very simple, well cooked, fresh local food from local producers at affordable prices, I applaud that, well done

Visited with my husband and our toddler. It wasn't overly busy. Ordered a coke and an apple juice, a scone, sausage roll and one hot meal.We sat patiently for our drinks thinking that since they were cold we wouldn't be waiting long. How wrong. 20 minutes passed and I could see that hot drinks were being taken to tables that ordered after us. I decided to ask where our drinks were and was told by a man at the coffee machine (owner?) That 'she' was just doing them now. I sat down patiently and watched as they were left behind the counter for another 5 minutes before I went back over to the till. Without acknowledging me verbally, the man went to the kitchen and asked for our drinks. The waitress then finally took them to our table and put them down without apology. I asked her how long the hot meal would be (now 40 mins from ordering) to which she unbelievably shrugged her shoulders and said I have no idea. She said she would check and finally came out with the food but again, no apology.The food itself was nice but the service was so slow and the staff just gave the waitress just gave the impression of not wanting to be there.It seems the managers/owners were far more interested in the party of 4 who were enquiring about catering than serving other customers within a reasonable time frame and with good service.I don't know that we will go back which is a shame because it had such a good first impression.

Alby tea rooms provides a very relaxed environment to have a cup of coffee or tea accompanied by a spice of their fantastic homemade cakes and scones. They now have a new chef making wonderful lunches. I strongly recommend the tea room and then wander around the whole and craft rooms.

very nice clean and atmospheric nice staff .my wife is a scone connisseur and rates the scones very highly I had carrot cake which was up with the best i have had

A warm welcome and a great atmosphere. A super lunch and a taste of the cherry and almond slice. A relaxing and hally visit

The new team at these tea rooms are moving back to the format that was successful when Emma was in control a few years ago after several aborted attempts to give visitors to these craft barns what they did not want. I hope this time they continue as they have started. As I only live a few miles up the road I have a vested interest . We visited for a mid morning snack recently the welcome was warm the coffee was hot and a delicious sausage roll fresh from the oven was excellent and just what we wanted. There was also a selection of cakes and scones We were advised a new chef had been taken on to extend the lunch menu. And we look forward to trying it soon. What we like from a tea shop is good simple food at sensible prices with good friendly service all these were there when we visited and long may it continue.

Popped in here for a quick coffee with two of my family. The place has changed hands and the decor is much improved. Very innovative in a retro kind of way....loved the 'library corner' and all the records.The tables were also not too close together and a nice touch was the table top made from a chalk board for younger guests. The coffee was terrific but the cake disappointing...The coffee cake didn't seem to have any coffee in it. On the other hand the cheese scone was quite good. Also the background mudic was far too loud.I will try this place a again and give it a second chance.watch this space for a second review!

Been here a couple of times for tea and cake recently. Really nice setting, lovely atmosphere, yummy homemade cakes - the only issue is the slow service. We sat at the table with the previous customers dirty plates for 15 minutes, before the waitress cane to clear them away. When she did she didn't even realise we were new customers, she thought they were ours, despite us already asking for the table to be cleared! It then took 25-30 minutes for our drinks and scones to arrive, and when they did the drinks were not as hot as we would have liked.The people on the table next to us waited nearly 40 minutes for their two hot chocolates! The staff don't seem very organised and don't have a sense of urgency about them. It's a shame because this could be a fantastic place to come, just need to improve the service!

Wanting to shelter from the miserable weather, my wife and I popped in for a quick bite to eat on Sunday lunchtime. First impression was that it had a more welcoming feel compared with our previous visits, some time ago. The staff were cheerful and friendly, the chef pointed out that it was Sunday roast only, although when we explained that we only wanted a snack, it wasn’t a problem for him and he fixed us up with a couple of tasty Panini and salad. The coffee is worth a mention, it was excellent. Oh, and the music....lively!

I have always lived in the area and also been in the catering myself for over 20 years. I found the Alby tea rooms to be a great experience. Enjoying hot coffee , dreamy indulgence in the chocolate cake and a real genuine honest welcome and goodbye. The proof was in the pudding and the fact it was a full tearoom may be I'm one of many with similar views. Keep up the good work SHM

We visited this establishment in need of refreshment . Just a coffee and a snack we thought would be good . We had to wait 25 minutes for our coffees to arrive. The food soon followed but it was wrong order . We ate it but it was not to our standard. It is a lovely barn and the cakes looked great . Shame about the service . Music would be good to set the ambience. Would we return ? Maybe !!!

At about 3pm this afternoon (19/11/15) my wife and I ventured into the Alby Tea Room and were met with total indifference. There was a gentleman who appeared to be the manager, at what we took to be the servery, in conversation with a woman who appeared to be a sales rep of some kind. There was no attempt to engage us in any way and we hung around for some minutes waiting for a welcome and some direction. This was not forthcoming, so we left, feeling very angry that we had been totally ignored.

We visited the Alby tea rooms after our lengthy walk with 14 walkers needing refreshments and food and were served fairly swiftly. We visit a lot of tea rooms/cafes along the way on our walks over Norfolk, and I have to say this is one of the better ones with tasty cakes with fairly large portions, lovely scones and good wholesome soup. It just adds to the whole experience of having a lovely day out with a visit to the Alby craft centre, having a walk and finishing off with enjoyable food. Well done, and thank you!

We stopped at Alby crafts today to browse for some inspiration for Christmas presents. We wondered around the gift shop and workshops an interesting visit to very pleasant artists that deserve more attention to their products than was there today. We fancied a drink aftrer a lot of talking and settled for a latte and mocha both were hot a decent size and pleasant although not really hungry we read the menu and specials board a normal offering of cafe fare the sausage rolls looked good but we resisted. We will be back to have lunch and will report again but would encourage a visit and further comments the cafe and whole complex needs more people visiting to improve the atmosphere and help those already there to thrive and to bring in more varied crafts people such as jewellers toy makers etc but worth a visit .

Called in today and the sign said closed on Sunday....its Tues.Very disappointed as it was my first visit and my friend had driven 30+miles to pick me up and then drive there.

We had our first visit to Alby tea rooms today (despite living only a few miles away). Very welcoming (Olly is warm and friendly) and good, local food. Everybody ate their lunch. Very tasty burgers. Cheers!

This is a proper cafe. Home made food, friendly people and nice atmosphere. The cafe is situated with the Alby workshops where you can see some artisans at work, visit a gallery or pick up some pottery skills.

Just stopped by for a bite to eat and a walk round the gardens. The enthusiasm of the café staff was great and the meals included some tasty options. I had the tapas and it was simple and tasty as tapas should be. I would loved to have eaten it with a glass of red wine but I had a delightful glass of local ginger beer instead.

We visited here upon chance as we saw signs for some craft workshops and tearoom. The owner greeted us immediately and the place had a nice buzz as there were several people in. There are plenty of nicely painted clean tables to sit at and an array of beautifully presented scones and sausage rolls at keen prices near the counter where you place your orders. The staff were cheerful and the owner took time to explain where his produce came from and once ordered, had the sense to try to up sell my cheese scone by offering a delicious homemade apricot chutney accompaniment. We both had a great pot of tea and warm fresh food and were pleased to witness the menu being put out for lunches. Burgers, tapas and an array of sensible lunches all reasonably priced is on offer each day and I suspect if we had stayed longer we would have seen a surge of lunch time customers arriving. My only criticism were the homemade cakes as these were uncovered on a table that could be touched by small children and as the day was warm, the flies were buzzing around them too. The staff covered them with cling film but I thought this far from ideal. Perhaps with time investment in a cold counter would help them to present their cakes more professionally and remove the obvious health and hygiene issue. Aside from this one negative point, I loved this place and I hope they have a wonderful and prosperous business.

This was a casual visit during a day trip out along the Norfolk coastline. There are several craft shops nearby that initially drew us in but finding the tearoom was a real find. The owner welcomed us in immediately and indeed acknowledged everyone that stepped through the door. The cafe was clean, well presented and whilst we stood at the counter he made the effort to explain where some of the produce were from and offered us several accompaniments should we make a particular choice. Just what an owner should be doing. The food was wonderfully fresh and tasty, the tea (Assam) was fresh and perfect. My only critisicm ( and I hope this does not offend them), the cakes were displayed on a low level table uncovered and there were flies buzzing around. The waitress promptly covered them with cling film. A simple remedy would be to find a glass cover and perhaps consider another cold counter to keep the cakes at their best. They are also easily accessible to a child and as the school holidays are upon us the opportunity for children to touch this food has increased. Parents and the staff may well be too busy to keep a tab on this. Apart from this I loved it. Tearoom being a tearoom and the lunch menu discreetly added near lunchtime just ticks all the boxes for me. Good luck to you all, you deserve to succeed.

We hadn't been to the tea rooms here for some time, so we didn't know it had changed hands. We will definitely be back, the food was very high quality, and the service friendly and attentive. We didn't try the cakes yesterday but they looked fab. We will definitely be back

Have been here a couple of times but this occasion wasn't great. The food itself is lovely, the cheese scones were impressive and the other cakes looked very tempting! However, the cup of peppermint tea ordered was served in a very tiny tea cup, which although cute is not practical. Furthermore it was only filled half way with water! A couple of mouthfuls is not acceptable for the price, especially when you're mainly paying for hot water in the first place. Also there was a business meeting going on between who I assume to be the owner and others within the cafe. The owner was talking extremely loudly about business and it made the atmosphere feel awkward and not relaxing in any way. It's sad because the surroundings are otherwise lovely and the food is good.

I took the chance for a wood fired pizza at Alby's pizza night as they are few and far between in Norfolk. Regrettably not up to expectations and was not fully baked in the wood oven - only just finished off in the last few minutes. Didn't do it for me and too much toppings did not help as made them too mushy. I am sure the other food could be good as the place was clean and staff friendly but wood fired pizza - give it a miss if you are after the authentic taste. A pity but I am only rating the pizzas.

I went at the weekend with my husband to have some lunch. Did have to wait a while but quite nice. Would go again.

Enjoyed a quick bite when looking around the craft shops. Nice warm tea room, The staff were very friendly and chatty. They were genuinely interested,( talking to my daughter about her school). the food was nice and you are served at your table, we sat in the big sofa's. No rush, just left to enjoy your food and drink. Will be going again soon

Stopped for a quick look around and a coffee. Several little artisan work shops around a tea shop and gift shop. Everyone was very friendly but the girls in the tea shop really make you feel at home. On top of a lovely atmosphere they have a delicious looking array of cakes. We sampled a cheese scone which rivaled those made at Kelliñg Post Office cafe. You can along buy delicious home made speciality bread. Worth stopping off for.....Sarah & Jason

We visited twice in the last week whilst on holiday. Was amongst the nicest food and drink we had whilst in Norfolk. Service excellent and all produce homemade and of very good quality. Cooked to perfection. Brilliant coffee too.

The Proprietor, Ollie, couldn't be a nicer person. A nice peaceful environment with delicious food and drink - just read all the positive reviews below, which I completely concur with. Alby Tea Room is a delight, and the staff couldn't be more helpful.

We visited the Tea Rooms on Mothering Sunday for a lazy brunch. We were warmly welcomed on arrival, and despite not booking a table the staff were more than accommodating. We all ordered the English Breakfast, two of which were vegetarian versions. It's not easy to find a vegetarian cooked breakfast but this one has to be the best I have ever eaten. Where possible the ingredients were home cooked and it showed. I especially liked the homemade baked beans! The most important thing is, my mum loved her breakfast. Thank you to all at Alby Tearooms for the wonderful service and amazing food. We'll be back!

We have been coming to this restaurant for many years but it lost it's way due to changing owners. What a transformation Ollie and his staff have made to this place! We have watched it develop in the short time he has been here. Everything is home made - even the bread and the jam. His cakes are heavenly. Soup delicious and doorstep sandwiches.Try his 'Norfolk Eggs'. Friendly helpful staff. Long may you continue Ollie.

A short break in the Erpingham area saw us trip over Alby Tea Rooms and stopping for lunch. A cold January day, we pulled in. Relatively quiet, although not surprising for a midweek January day. Although the dining area was a little chilly, the food and service was excellent. Soup and a burger hit the right spot. I tried the hot chocolate, made at Alby Tea Rooms and how delicious it was. No need to ruin it with any extras like sugar, cream or marshmallows.Post eating, we took a place on the sofas and took advantage of the free wifi whilst finishing off our drinks.We were made to feel welcome and although we were worried we may be outstaying our welcome on the sofa we were assured we were welcome to chill as long as we wanted. Had it been busy we would have moved on as soon as we had finished. So, full marks for the hot chocolate, the bread was delicious and I only wish I had enough space to have tried one of the scones which looked so tempting.

Have been before and as a result excelling its virtues I took friends along for a treat. The food and drinks once again were excellent and I expect to pay well for such high quality but I am afraid with that goes good service and I am afraid your staff need some training. We were greeted by the proprietor ( I think) who was passing through on his way to the kitchen. However the waitress staff didn't seem interested,chatting to themselves and then when one did serve us was unhelpful to the point of being rude with regards what we were trying to order. Fortunately the proprietor walked through and was more helpful. The waitress then forgot to deliver all of our order and made out that was because we hadn't ordered the item. On checking the till she found we had. I would like to come back again but not if your staff are like this. Having recommended you to several people I will think twice in the future. Its a shame as your food is really good and you deserve to do well

Saw the roadside sign on the way to a NT property. Pulled in and found a gem of a place. Not an extensive menu but what sometimes more is not better....They make their own bread on the premises and it shows. We had toasted sandwiches and the soup was Devine. Hand cut chips fluffy and crispy and awesome .At the time Olly was preparing a coffee and walnut cake....needless to say we could not wait for the final decoration before asking for a slice...the cake was soft, moist and delicious, as was the carrot cake and chocolate bomb.......You can buy cheaper but you could not the fault the quality and taste...which was second to none...We noticed they are starting to do Sunday roasts, I can only imagine that the place will be full each week when the word gets out.Pity we go back on Saturday... Otherwise if your in the area and passing through Alby the pull in you WONT regret it ... Trust me...

Alby Crafts Tea Room has just been taken over by Olly and his staff. My partner and child had a sandwich, I thought I'll just have chips, silly me! The sandwich was as good as ive seen one since living briefly in LA 20 years ago and we all know how the americans can make a sandwich! It was a meal in itself and very tasty. We then popped back for the newly started Sunday Lunch, at only £6.95 its very delicious, a propa homemade feel to it, and by someone who can clearly cook well, superb roasties, tender meat, excellent gravy and fresh brightly coloured veg ( ie not over cooked! ) The only issue is its very small, I could of eaten one for starters and then another straight after, I know its only cheap. If Olly reads this I would be very happy and as such suggest a sides menu with the Sunday lunch, bowl extra veg and roast pots both at whatever price you think, Id be happy to pay and would leave more content, might be a bit embarrassing to order a roast for starters and mains, after all !! Congratulations you are a very good cafe in the making, in fact restaurant quality and a good one to boot! :)

Last minute trip out to Alby Crafts, and was pleased to find the Tearooms was serving 'Sunday Lunches' (their first weekend in doing so). As the title says, it was absolutely fabulous everything was freshly made on the premises, and it was more than worth the £6.95 cost. Will definitely be calling again.

WOW, how great it is to see a place making everything from scratch. Even curing there own meat like ham and pastrami. We meet Olly, who is the owner/chef,and he was not only passionate and knowledgeable about what he does, but funny and welcoming too.We had a lovley lunch and a walk around the beautiful gardens.Definitely going back.

The tea rooms offer a great selection of sandwiches, along with a choice of bread. You do, however pay for this luxury and my overall rating is due to the fact that I ordered pastrami with a specific pickle to be given pastrami with branston pickle instead, which I despise. I was in a very embarrasing position as my father had treated me to lunch and so I didn't want to appear to be difficult by complaining about my sandwiches. My gripe is why they did this. Why didn't the staff tell me that they had run out of the correct pickle and offer me a choice of a different sandwich. It was revolting and for this reason alone, I will not be returning.

Not crowded. Reasonable choice of snacks - soup, sandwiches, toasted sandwiches, cakes, etc. - even 'Norfolk Egg'.

This tea room, set within a thriving local craft centre has recently changed hands and is staggeringly good. A varied menu of light meals including soups, sandwiches, scones and cakes. The restaurant cures its own ham and pastrami, makes its own breads and celebrates fresh local produce. The Farmers Plate offers a choice of cheddar or home cured ham with salad, chutney and home made bread. The sandwiches come in a choice of wholemeal, white or granary bread and have deep deep fillings. The beverage menu offers a wide variety of teas and coffees together with fruit juices. Side orders of hand cut chips are also available. This is not a cheap place to eat but the quality, variety and freshness of the menu mean that it is excellent value for money.