The Royal George in County Durham

I love old traditional English pubs, the Royal George is certainly one of them. The landlords were lovely, very welcoming. I am amazed how reasonable the prices are and the quality of the food, the care given to the cooking, presentation are. We had a lovely lunch and enjoyed ourselves a lot. This place is a hidden gem which we will visit again soon.

Someone we knew recommended their twice yearly fish & shellfish week - so we went for that, being seafood fans. The interior of the pub was somewhat uncoventional and quirky - but the food was wonderful. Generous portions of really good, fresh seafood, cooked simply and well. I had an anchovy salad starter, followed by crevettes in garlic butter - possibly the best crevettes I have eaten - sweet and tender. My husband had whitebait, followed by monkfish medallions in a coconut sauce. We were also given a very warm welcome, and will definitely be returning. The folk who run this pub obviously care more about the quality of food than anything else, which suits us down to the ground.

Excellent menu choices and the food was again very good, especially the fish. However there was a lack of atmosphere because we were the only customers and the service was rushed so that they could close as soon as we departed. We also got the impression that they had only opened because we had pre-booked.

Six of us having an early Christmas meal together.We all had different starters,but all of us have the fish for a main course.It was absolutely delicious.Thank you so much Annie and Tony

This pub says its dog friendly on Trip Advisor. it is not! I had booked a table for 4 for my my mums birthday dinner, and was about to ring to check if I could bring our old, blind and dear little border terrier. However on Trip Advisor it said the pub was dog friendly so decided I didn't need to call, as all pubs I have been to in the past accept dogs 'into' the pub if they say they are 'dog friendly'. We were turned away and said we could sit in the garden. It was a slightly chilly evening, and my mother is 80 and couldn't cope with the chill. Luckily we found a wonderful dog friendly pub down the road in Hopton called The Vine which was very welcoming. Don't bother bringing your dog unless you want to sit outside.

Another great night at the George lovely food and company as always from Annie and Tony the hosts. Up and coming the jubilee weekend special events BBQ ,and live music 🥳 it's best to book as very popular.

Went for a family lunch on 22/04/22, never been to the pub before, really friendly welcome and great food and service. Had a great lunch.

Just been to the george for a fantastic meal as always such a shame that the mural on the outside wall may soon be covered up.It has been a great talking point in and around the area. Thankyou tony and annie.

A party of three of us went in December 2020.. Pub was nice and warm. The food was excellent and all three of selecting diffebt choices.. Annie looked after us vety well. A good pint also.. It is disappointing that the locals do not use, as they are clearly missing a trick. I highly recommend the George...

A wonderful meal during lockdown. Will definitely order again and look forward to enjoying more meals in the pub restaurant, post COVID-19 lockdowns.

Just coming out of lockdown we ventured here on a weekday and had one of the best pub meals I've had in a long time - family of 5, with really good portions and well-kept ales. This pub deserves to be supported by locals through the crisis and I hope it will be.

Phoned Anne at 12.30pm, ordered liver & bacon, chips & peas, pan fried spicy scallops with prawns bacon and tagliatelle, extra chips. Pick up 17.45, paid by card, very friendly conversation, called back as requested, all ready, piping hot and delicious, well done Anne & Tony, great service and marvellous menu especially in these troubled times.

Got a brilliant reception when picking up my takeaway. Warm and friendly. The food was delicious as usual and good portions at a reasonable price. Support your local businesses in these difficult times. Will definitely be going back

Spoke to a woman on the phone from this establishment, she was rude so didn’t bother visiting in person

Had an amazing dinner , food was very well cooked so hats off to the chief. Had a great selection of vegetables and plenty to share around.. We were a party of eight ( five had roast pork , three had gammon steaks both amazing dinners and presentation was perfect. We were looked after very well, checking everything was ok with the food and making sure we had drinks. Definitely deserves the 5 star rating.

Warning, trust your first impressions. If there are no cars in the car park on a Saturday evening, don't go in. If only we had followed this advice. The pub is an ice-box, the only member of staff is generally unpleasant and it's the shabbiest pub I have ever been to. The food is standard fare, nothing you couldn't cook for yourself at home frozen chips with everything and peas are the only vegetable. Items on the menu are a guide (e.g. one of my party ordered the twin pork chops, to be told they only had one!) And ,finally the toilets are a disgrace.

We have visited this pub several times now and have always been made to feel very welcome.. The locals are friendly and there's a pleasant, relaxed atmosphere.On the last occasion, it was Seafood week and there was an excellent fish menu to chose from as well as some other dishes. In order to minimize delays they only take your order when the chef is ready to cook it, this works very well and you know everything is really fresh. Food has always been of a very high standard at realistic prices. Highly recommended.

Went with friends for Saturday lunch. The blackboard menu was a fish lovers delight. So much choice! The fresh anchovy starter was delicious and the plaice fillets that followed were plump and perfectly cooked. Our friends had the haddock which was equally enjoyable. We look forward to our next visit.

It would be nice if this pub was open!!!! We live in the village and have been regular to the pub most weekends and have eaten here countless times but am very sad to say im sick of walking to the pub to find it closed even before 2pm on a sunday. It will be a long time before i bother again if at all.

We attended the Royal George on two consecutive evenings for a meal when we were staying locally in Barningham on a short winter break.On both evenings we were greeted by the land lady who was very pleasant and friendly, the land lord and locals were also friendly.Meals were very good quality with prompt efficient service on both visits. Definitely worth a visit we could not fault the place. Good beer served too!

Visited today for lunch Can highly recommend the food was absolutely beautiful, the fish was the freshest we have ever eaten. Will definitely be returning very soon Thankyou ❤️

Went there for a family Sunday lunch. Arrived at 1.48pm for a 1.45pm booking, to be greeted with: "You're late! most people would be eating by now"

Had a meal here for family group. Food and service absolutely fine, no complaints at all. Only small criticism is the loo (just one per sex) looked neglected and tired (that is, when the lights were turned on which they weren't when I first went in, which appears to be operated by the management). These days the condition of the facilities is so important. This let it down.

Wonderful thatched old English pub we visited in conjunction with a classic car event Our meal was soon presented to us within minutes of being ordered They do a very good fish selection too

food was 1st class one of the best i have had warm old pub with breams so great to eat at will be back again very soon

Annie and Tony are so welcoming. Having recently moved to the area, we were keen to find a local with good food and decent ales and wines. They both love their fish and source the freshest and the best. Since visiting we have not had a bad meal and would highly recommend.

Owners couldn’t have been more helpful when we took our elderly mother in law. Couldn’t fault the starter and main course but wish the waffle and the profiteroles had been warm. Restaurant could have been a little warmer. Will definitely be back!

We visited for lunch today (20th October). The restaurant was quiet which afforded us good interaction with the owners. We all had fish which was excellently cooked and presented. Prices were reasonable and the service was good.

Father in law knew the pub was having a fish festival week and recommended we all went - party of 4 total. We chose from a mouthwatering hand-written chalkboard menu, absolutely packed with choice and a good choice for anyone else not wanting fish. You would be forgiven for thinking that it was quite quiet, until that is you are shown through to the charming dining area, which is made up of several areas all of them buzzy with people and chatter. I found it quirky and charming, but then I love old places and there is a lot of history to this place. Service was attentive and speedy - very impressed. Dover sole had been freshly delivered that day and did not disappoint. All meals were cooked well and were delicious. Thoroughly enjoyed, 4 happy customers.

Excellent hosts, wonderful chef- especially with the fish.Negative reports are at odds with my experiense.

Staying nearby fir a family reunion 4 of us turned up the first night and ordered the freshly caught fish - with some food intolerances to deal with Anni took our preferences with great patience and we were rewarded with 4 wonderful meals with sides of peas and new potatoes ( and our beers were great too). The next evening we were tired and tried looking elsewhere but decided what we knew was the best choice so we rocked up again, had the great fresh fish and was not disappointed. And on the third night after a day on the Broads it wasn't a hard decision to return for 3 fish meals and 1 steak and ale pie. The apple and black currant lie with light crust was so tasty too. We were welcomed with a friendly smile and banter each night and it was great fun to be "going home" each night.

Llamado en el almuerzo de domingo justo después de 1. 30, me dijeron que estaban cerrando la cocina en dos minutos. No se permiten perros en, ni siquiera para caminar a través de llegar a jardín frontal, nos dijeron que podíamos salir de atrás, el único asiento disponible estaba al lado de tienda de tabaco! ! Habríamos gastado £30 - £40 como hacemos normalmente. Su pérdida, no nuestra. No se molesten en regresar. ! !

Llegamos un domingo a la 1. 15 y aparte de un par de chicos jugando al billar el lugar estaba vacío - esto no pinta bien. La señora de detrás de la barra nos sirvieron una bebida y luego aleteaba por encima de nosotros con su lápiz preparados para tomar nuestro pedido. Ella no iba a darnos un minuto para pensar. Una opción para vegetarianos fue decepcionante, pero en general fue bastante agradable. menú Por desgracia no pudimos probar la comida gracias a la grosería que a continuación fue encontrado. Un minuto después de colocar mi pedido solicitado cortésmente si habían comenzado y si la oportunidad de cambiar. Era sólo una ensalada. Primero un tío me daba miradas en chef y dice "sí es 'luego se vuelve comenzó claro que no tienen como la señora viene a decir 'yo estaba a punto de, ¿qué es ahora? 'con los brazos abierto, manos elevada y una voz especialmente molesto. Así, en los precios que cobran y el hecho de que casi no había prisa en su pies pero en vez creo que cualquier medida era un obstáculo, no íbamos a ser hablado así y no esperar y averiguar el estado de la comida. Nos salió y nos dirigimos por la carretera de la concentración de café en Blo Norton. Una opción mucho mejor.

Pasamos el pub en el camino para visitar a la familia y vimos señales fuera para comer el domingo.

Trasladado a la zona hace un par de meses aquí y he estado 4 veces. Quizás un buen crítico encontrar cientos de cosas que ver para mejorar. No soy un buen crítico. Todo lo que puedo decirte es que es difícil 4 / 4 excelentes comidas de superar. Que el hombre puede cocinar - final de.

Acabo de volver de tener otra maravillosa comida en este pub antiguo encantador. Tuve la trucha de mariposas, muy agradable. Cada vez que hemos comido aquí estoy impresionado con la ensalada, no es el típico aburrido lechuga, tomate y pepino, etc, está llena de todo tipo de fruta y también, sin duda volveremos.

We went in on a Fridays when they have fresh fish out of 6 of us 4 had halibut , we all agreed the food and service was excellent .Some reviews claim the staff are unfriendly I don't agree so go and try it on a Friday if you like fish ,

Three of us arrived for Sunday lunch having booked a table that morning. We had a very courteous reception and enjoyed drinks in the bar while ordering our meals. We were shown to the restaurant when our meals were ready and sitting in a very cosy area we thoroughly enjoyed really well prepared meals, obviously freshly cooked with good quality ingredients. The management and staff couldn't have been more attentive and we shall certainly visit again

Having lived in the area for 15 years and being regulars at this beautiful pub I can only say what a terrible shame it is that you don't feel welcomed on any occasion that I have been in under the current owners. Food overpriced, I can live with that but so unwelcoming. Everything is an inconvenience, no smile, no going the extra mile. Just very sad. No locals is the biggest clue

Four of us went for lunch on Sunday after a lovely walk geocaching at Knettishall Heath.We were a bit concerned when we walked in and found that the place was empty at ~ 1:00 pm. However we were greeted by friendly staff, an extensive menu, a selection of ales and a cosy interior. The place filled up a bit after that, which gave a good atmosphere. We had two roasts, a chilli and ham, egg & chips between us. All were served quickly and proved to be delicious. We didn't try a dessert as we were all full due to the large portions. The landlady checked to make sure everything was OK during our meal and we were thanked by her and the chef (landlord?) when we left. Would definitely return.

This has to rate as the most unwelcoming pub in Suffolk. The owner can't enve raise a smile between them ! The cook or chief if you like ,,partner of bar tender couldn't smile if he tried , everything's an effort , it's almost a chore to even serve you if his wife can't . The place has a fantastic fire place adorned with brick a brack from the 70s and no heting . People even sitting eating in coats ... the place smells damp and the tables are sticky ,,,,we decided not to eat even though the fish menu looked to good to be true in size to be all fresh ... the cook seems to hang around the bar after a meal is served almost like waiting for the expression on the dinners face ,,,is it a yes or a no ?? The fact is if you don't want to run the pub why be there ?? Wasted .... lovely little building in need of a warm welcome smile and fire ... sorry

We visited the pub on a wet and wintery Saturday night . The landlady was most welcoming , and the pub has a cosy atmosphere. There was a vast menu and also a fish menu too . So much choice ! I chose a pie and it was home cooked and delicious . The dessert menu was all of my faves !!! The landlord was friendly and shared stories of the pub and villages past while handing out roasted chestnuts . Will definitely visit again and recommend to friends . Would advise pre booking .

Very friendly traditional pub, with a welcoming atmosphere and lovely food, all four of us really enjoyed our Sunday roast with all the trimmings and good sized portions and served with five perfectly cooked fresh vegetables, would definitely recommend.

Travelled 60 miles to Barningham to visit friends and have lunch at the Royal George. Friday is, supposedly, fish and chips day, food being served up until 1.45 however we were somewhat disappointed to find the pub closed when we arrived at 12.50! I suppose we should not have been surprised as the establishment opens at the whim of the landlord. Try the Dun Cow in Bardwell where you will find the landlord and his wife most welcoming. Should you wish to visit the Royal George at lunchtime I would suggest a 'phone call in advance would not go amiss.

We moved to Suffolk in 2010. The George was the first place we had a meal in the area. We eventually purchased our property in the next village. We dine out at least once a week and often twice a week. We try and find different places. But as of today we have not found anywhere that has been as good. We have never had course to complain or return the food. The only minor critisem, is they alway seems to be some haste to get you into the dining room.

Stopped off during a driving morning around the area. Partner had roast beef. I had roast pork. Both meats were drier than what we would have liked. Gravy and potatoes ok. More boiled potatoes than roasted, which was disappointing. Vegetables cooked ok, with a nice mix. Yorkshire puddings a tad 'Aunt Bessie'. Restaurant and bar was cold, so I ate with my jacket on. Ale was good. I guess it's very difficult for an establishment to produce a good, fresh Sunday lunch, when the turn over is limited, as I would say this pub would struggle due to the average lunch, whereby not many would return, given the choice in the area.

I've been going to the Royal George with my family and friends for a good few years now. They've absolutely gone out of their way every time with great customer service and food. It's relaxed and what you'd expect from a proper village pub. The bad review that is included from one of the reviewers on this page is pretty laughable and says more about the customer who wrote it rather than anything else, especially when you read all of it. We're a pretty discerning family and booked it for my mum and dads 50th Wedding Anniversary and as usual they were outstanding. Brilliant place.

Arranged a family meal for 7 for the Sunday before Christmas. Everyone very welcoming. Choice of one, two or three course meal, each at a set price. We chose the two course for £12.95 - it was excellent value and the variety on the menu suited everyone. The service was excellent and the meals well presented and well cooked.Comfortable surroundings enjoyed by all - we tried not to be too boisterous.A lovely start to the Christmas season

well what a rubbish place is all i can honestly say, although it is mainly the arful little woman behind the bar that makes it that way. It was my birthday and i was having my main special meal out the following day, but decided to go to this place for sat lunch as 3 weeks before had come here by accident and really enjoyed the fish. She was there that day to and i found her a bit off putting then and standoffish but it had been busy that day and got served drinks by a nice young barman so only had to deal with her then when ordering food and she was pretty unhelpful, but as i said loved the plaice and decided to come back as mum wanted it too. We were only ones there, my group of 3. we,d sat down for 2 mins when she came over for order, i laughed and said give us a chance. we then moved tables to be further away from bar and she came straight over again. once again i said give us a chance we aint even settled yet, she made some remark and then said she,d be back in15 min. In end had to get her attention after 20 as she was sitting drinking tea at bar to the only other customer. she took our orders, ignoring mum asking for bread and my mate saying no peas. as she walked away i heard her say, 'god help me' and i was fumeing. what a horrible rude woman. when meal came fish was overcooked, my mate had undercooked peas and hadnt wanted any and we werent happy. overpriced by far too.52pound in a little tiny village pub, for 3 meals. 2 plaice and 1 scampi which was really dry., and 3pints lager. what a joke. never again and stay away is all i can say to potential customers. That woman should be sacked.

Drove round a few places which had stopped serving food (7pm on a Sunday in rural suffolk, it was to be expected) and came across the Royal George who were still serving 'til late! Lovely little pub, menu was a little difficult to read as it was simply a chalkboard filled with all the days choices. I went for the ribs, my friends chose the Scampi. We were all very pleased with the meal, a good size portion without being over-filling for a decent price. Would definitely go again and try something different (the pie sounded good but they had run out...).

A large group (10) of us visited recently for a mid-week, evening meal. The food is good and we all had something different from the menu. The portions were a decent size but it was a little on the expensive side. (By comparison, the prices are slightly higher than the White Horse at Hopton and the food there is exceptional). The downside was really in the service. I didn't feel that we were particularly welcome and, the fact that we were in a large group seemed more of a hindrance to them. (With the exception of a young lad who was serving us during the meal - he was excellent and very friendly). We weren't allowed through to the table until we had ordered, standing up, in front of the doorway - which seemed a tad odd. I'm presuming this is due to not having printed menus and the blackboard being located next to the front door. I did feel we were "in the way" and, through no fault of our own, intruding on some of the other diners. The chef came out and briefly spoke to the lady taking out order and made a disapproving comment about us wanting starters and how they "take too long" ... or words to that effect. Which is a little unprofessional in front of the diners. I've certainly had worse but, for the money, would expect a bit of a smile and a slightly warmer welcome for a large booking (which we did call through in advance). If they didn't want us to come, they could've told us on the phone and we would've gone elsewhere. My meal was £15 for two courses.

Traditional old Suffolk pub. Good, local beers and ciders and a pretty garden. Service was great and the food menu looked good; we'll definitely be back soon to try it.

The second time within a fornight I visited this pub I expected to be recognised- especially since the first time I had lunched with my invalid husband. However, although the food was good, I did not feel my friend and I were in the least welcome. For a warm welcome and encouragement to return Annie should take a leaf out of the book of the Quenns Head, Hawkedon.

They've just put up the list of seafood that's going to be on this year from 31st March to 6th April. Always brilliant. See the picture.

As always, we popped in on a 'whim' and even though they were extremely busy (it was a Friday Evening) - Annie managed to squeeze us in! I love little pub, a great menu with superb food including a large Fish Selection if you love fish like me!! Annie, Tony and their staff are always most pleasant and very helpful providing an excellent service every time we step through the door! With Steak Nights on a Wednesday and other themed nights - it's definitely a place to try - you will love it! Go on give it a go!

This was ,up until the new owners took over, a village pub with a good restaurant, but now it has turned into a restaurant with a pub that opens at the whim of the landlord. I regularly visit Barningham at the weekend but find it nigh on impossible to get a drink at the Royal George on a Saturday lunchtime. In the event of it being open, be prepared for last orders being called at 13. 15, as Saturday afternoon is shopping time for the landlord and his wife. Shame that Green King are apparently no longer involved with this delightful pub.

Well worth finding this one.The service form Annie on front of house is exceptional.Tony presents some fabulous food which is always chosen with care & locally sourced for a great meal.

Having recently moved into Hopton we stopped off at lunchtime for a snack on the way back from Bury before heading home.The pork sandwich was the biggest and best we've ever had! Now we're local will defo. be going back for the fish and special evening dinners/events.

We were welcomed as the pub was opened and we were made to feel we would be welcomed again as the door was locked behind us as the pub closed. In the period between opening and closing we enjoyed drinks and a meal from a wide menu that suited all of our party. The nine of us chose a wide range of main courses which were all served hot fresh and at the same time. Discussion on our dishes were all complimentary and following a break for further liquid sustenance it wasn’t surprising that puddings were eagerly ordered. The husband and wife running the pub are a credit to Greene King. Main tip is duck if you are over 6ft and whatever height you are give yourself time to enjoy the food and ambience of the place.

We regularly use the Royal George and have never been disappointed. As always, go with what the restaurant is good at and in this case it's fish. Other dishes are also very nice but we certainly prefer the fish - the menu is diverse and there is something for all. For pub food, the quality is excellent, prices are very reasonable and the staff are always extremely friendly and helpful. The place itself is typical olde English beamed pub with plenty of character. Well worth a visit.

Situated between the villages of Stanton and Hopton on the Suffolk/Norfolk border is Barningham, wherein lies the local public house, which has a good restaurant inside. The pub is lovely inside with low timber beams on the ceiling (if your 6ft plus you need to do a lot a ducking)!! The food is cooked as you wait and is really tasty and displayed well on the plate. The staff look after you well. A local pub with food that impresses, a must for couples or friends wanting somewhere to catch up over a good meal. Have steak night during the week and we are definitely going to be trying soon. An old fashioned pub with a welcoming and warm atmosphere.

We 1st tried this restaurant in 2009, we could not more impressed with the way the pub looked and the food was simply amazing. We eat their now every week in a thatched roofed pub serving real food real ale free WIFI pool table outside seating free parking(we walk) fantastic local pub with food that always impresses. They have a sea food festival every year which I deny anyone not be be impressed. Local people have a wee oasis that is being enjoyed by others too. Come and try Steak Night every Wednesday and its 2 for £14.95 wow