The Chequers, a traditional pub and restaurant in Thornham on the North Norfolk coast, has welcomed guests once again following a light refurbishment and the introduction of a unique dining concept following its acquisition by East Anglian-based hospitality group Chestnut earlier this year.

 

The revamped interiors breathe new life into this hub at the heart of the community, featuring various dining areas, a spacious outdoor terrace, and an inviting atmosphere that perfectly blends classic pub aesthetics with modern touches.

 

The refreshed décor draws inspiration from the Norfolk countryside, combining rustic charm with contemporary artwork and cosy nooks that create a warm and inviting social space.

 

Departing from the traditional permanent kitchen model, The Chequers is also redefining its food offering with a rotating selection of street food vendors, bringing an array of flavours for its guests. As winter approaches, the focus will shift to a snug, indoor pub kitchen experience, featuring pop-up kitchens and chef residencies.

 

Joe and Emma, the driving force behind the pub's new concept, are passionate about 'putting the pub back into the pub' stating: "We're thrilled to have reopened The Chequers and to provide a diverse, year-round dining experience. Whether it's street food vendors in the summer or supper clubs and chef residencies in the winter, our focus is on variety. Our inspiration came from pubs in larger cities that embrace a more laid-back approach to food, featuring street food pop-ups, pop-up kitchens, and residencies, bringing a fresh and dynamic vibe to the area."

 

Since reopening, the pub has already hosted a range of events, from DJ sets to collaborative events with suppliers. Upcoming highlights includes The Chequers Beer and Cider Festival.

 

The Chequers Beer and Cider Festival will run from 12-10pm between 27th - 29th September and showcase 10 local beers on tap including brews from Barshams, Duration, Ampersand, and Grain Brewery. Norfolk Raider Cider & Kicking Goat Cider will offer over 8 different flavours to taste. Visitors can also enjoy a diverse range of food pop-ups including Askers Pizza on Friday and Saturday, and Rabbit and Run Street Food across the weekend.

 

A special Brancaster Gin pop-up will also take place on the Friday from 5-8pm, adding to the festival's vibrant atmosphere. Plans are in the works to add entertainment and further food vendors.

 

Following the festival, guests can look forward to a calendar filled with regular pub quizzes and other community events. The Chequers is the perfect stop for those exploring the nearby coast, with dogs and muddy boots always welcome.

 

 

 

 

 

More about Chestnut: Chestnutgroup.co.uk | Instagram | LinkedIn

 

Chestnut is a collection of pubs with rooms and Big Houses in the East of England. Chestnut's pubs with rooms include The Packhorse Inn in Moulton, Newmarket, The Black Lion in Long Melford, The Westleton Crown in Westleton, The Ship at Dunwich, The Eight Bells in Saffron Walden, The Weeping Willow in Barrow, The Three Blackbirds in Woodditton, The Crown Inn in Stoke-by-Nayland, The Cricketers in Clavering, The Globe Inn, in Wells Next-the-Sea, The Feathers in Holt, The Wiverton Bell in Holt, The Carpenters Arms in Cambridgeshire. The Chequers and The Lifeboat Inn in Thornham.

 

Chestnut's larger hospitality businesses include The Old Bridge in Huntington, The Maltings, Weybourne, and Le Strange Arms Hotel, Hunstanton. Additionally, Chestnut welcomed East Anglian wine merchant, Peter Graham Wines into their portfolio in 2023.