Morston Holt, NR25 7AA
Harden's survey result
Summary
“How I love Morston!” – a theme underlying many reports on Galton & Tracy Blackiston’s celebrated destination near the north Norfolk coast: “as usual, it was most enjoyable and relaxing, knowing that we were in the hands of a professional and well-run operation: service was personable and informal, and the cooking from well-balanced menus was confident and the portions exactly right, complemented by well-chosen and imaginative wines”; “and the accommodation is top-notch as well”. But while ratings here remain strong, a couple of long-term fans this year did note a slight tail-off in their experience (“the latter dinner, although very good, was a rather low-key affair and staff were perhaps less pro-active than usual”; “there appeared to have been a significant turnover of staff in the short time since our previous visit”) and it seems likely this is linked to the Blackistons’ aim to retire, with the property being put on the market in April 2024. (Apparently, though, there’s expectation of a smooth transition period as the Blackistons have offered to stay on as consultants to whoever purchases the property).
Summary
“A favourite place in Norfolk” – “Galton Blackiston and team continue to be at the top of their game” at this highly commented-on destination (amongst the top 50 outside the capital in terms of the volume of feedback in our annual diners’ poll) near the north Norfolk coast, where the “conservatory-style dining room overlooking the gardens is a lovely setting”. A favourite choice for a gastronomic break, “the wide repertoire of outstanding tasting menus changes every day” (seven courses for £135 per person): “reliably wonderful food” from “locally sourced produce” with “exceptional presentation” and “portions that are just right”. But while all the many reports it attracts rate it well this year, a number also note that “sadly prices have risen, and it seems really expensive now”.
Summary
“Making the drive to north Norfolk worthwhile!” – “Galton Blackiston (with wife Tracy) are nearing their thirtieth year at their acclaimed country house hotel, near the coast, and support in our annual diners’ poll (in which it’s one of the most commented-on destinations) shows no signs of diminishing. Thanks to “personable and efficient” staff, you “feel you are in very capable hands throughout” and “cooking of the daily-changing 7-course tasting menu is assured and simply stunning every night”. “An ideal place for a romantic break staying in their accommodation and enjoying great food.” Top Top – “the wine flight seemed expensive and a better option looked like the limited but imaginative selection of wines by the glass” (“a broad, judiciously chosen variety, at reasonable price”).
Summary
“Something not to be missed if you are in Norfolk…” – Galton Blackiston’s country house, near the beaches of the north Norfolk coast, is a much accoladed spot, and was one of the most commented-on destinations this year in our annual diners survey, thanks to the “brilliant, five-star experience it offers”. The “creative tasting menu” changes nightly and “Galton comes around and explains the dishes, which are outstanding”. “Nothing is too much trouble for the staff”, who are “caring and informative without being overbearing”. “I try and go… if I can get in! They are so busy!”.
For 33 years we've been curating reviews of the UK's most notable restaurant. In a typical year, diners submit over 50,000 reviews to create the most authoritative restaurant guide in the UK. Each year, the guide is re-written from scratch based on this survey (although for the 2021 edition, reviews are little changed from 2020 as no survey could run for that year).
Have you eaten at Morston Hall?
Owner's description
Morston Hall is a privately owned, intimate 4 Red Star country house hotel on the beautiful north Norfolk coastline.
Dating back to the 17th century, the house has been transformed by owners Galton and Tracy Blackiston over the past two decades with a collection of 13 guest rooms, beautiful gardens and Michelin-starred and 4 AA Rosette restaurant.
With miles of north Norfolk coastline to explore just a minute’s walk from the hotel, Morston Hall is a tranquil retreat from the daily hustle and bustle.
At the heart of Morston Hall is our award-winning restaurant serving a tasting menu that changes every evening and showcasing the finest seasonal produce our beautiful Norfolk coastline has to offer.
During the afternoons, while away the hours overlooking the gardens and indulge in our Champagne afternoon tea.
On Sundays, we welcome the whole family with our set Sunday lunch menu.
Whether joining us for dinner, Sunday lunch or afternoon tea, you are sure to have a memorable dining experience.
Prices
Drinks | |
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Wine per bottle | £30.00 |
Filter Coffee | £3.00 |
Extras | |
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Bread | £0.00 |
Service | 10.00% |
Restaurant details
Morston Hall Restaurant Diner Reviews
"Hotel was amazingly but the food did not live up to the hype "
"Really gapped food and a fantastic setting made for an excellent stay, I would recommend going to this intimate restaurant and if you have a mind stay in one of the lovely rooms."