📍 Great Massingham, Norfolk | Peddars Way National Trail
After a long day of walking the Peddars Way, we arrived in Great Massingham and found exactly what every walker hopes for: a warm welcome, good food, and a restful place to stay. Our stop at The Dabbling Duck wasn’t long, but it quickly became one of the most memorable parts of our journey through Norfolk.
The inn sits on the edge of a village green, surrounded by duck ponds and flint cottages. Inside, it’s full of character — a proper pub with a relaxed, lived-in feel that locals clearly love. The restaurant and bar were bustling that evening, with friendly chatter, well-kept ales, and seasonal dishes coming out of the kitchen. We felt right at home.
Our room was set in the garden behind the main inn — spacious, quiet, and thoughtfully modernised. A large ensuite, quality bedding, and a coffee maker made it easy to settle in. After a satisfying dinner, we sank into bed knowing we’d found just the right blend of comfort and charm.
It was tempting to linger. Great Massingham is the kind of village walkers dream about: a traditional butcher, a local produce shop, and a peaceful rural setting that invites slow travel. But we had a mission. With boots back on in the morning, we headed north toward Holme-next-the-Sea, where the Peddars Way ends and the Norfolk Coast Path begins.
Even though we were just passing through, The Dabbling Duck offered a true pause — a place to rest, eat well, and enjoy a bit of village life along the way. If you're planning a walking holiday in Norfolk, it’s a stay worth building into your route.
