Local, seasonal and family run
The consistent focus at The Saracen’s centres around using the best of our local seasonal ingredients, while providing a relaxed, comfortable place to stay, where everyone is welcome. It’s this personal approach, with the emphasis on serving great food that makes this a favourite destination pub amongst North Norfolk’s best. There’s no rushing you off your table, guests are encouraged to enjoy their time here and savour the food.
Owners Tim and Janie have worked tirelessly to make the inn today as uniquely special as it was in 1806, having updated the rooms, restaurant and bar whilst remaining true to the original character of the property.
The Saracen’s is the special inn without a village, in the middle of nowhere and the heart of the North Norfolk countryside – come and join us for a drink, meal, or a stay, and see for yourself.
Our story
Tim and Janie Elwes took over The Saracen’s Head in 2010, after successfully running luxury hotels in the French Alps for 12 years. Brought up in neighbouring Burgh, just a few miles from The Saracen’s, Tim ventured to London in the 80s to seek his fortune as a booking agent in the music industry, working with iconic bands such as Paul Weller, Culture Club and Kylie.
After meeting Janie on a skiing holiday, the couple married in ’95 and decided to try their luck (and consequently excelled) at running resort hotels, with Janie as chef and Tim as front of house. After many years in the Alps, the couple felt the inevitable pull of Norfolk and moved back to the UK at a convenient time, in which their three boys were soon to change schools.
Celebrating tradition
Janie is the brains behind the soft, elegant interiors throughout the refurbished rooms, and her attention to detail means guests get that extra bit of personal comfort. A chair to throw one’s towel on in the bathroom, or a book by a great local author by the bed; these touches make a stay at The Saracen’s feel like the best of home.
Now, Janie works at a local school teaching cooking, while Tim runs the day to day operations, alongside his brilliant team. The boys are grown up but willingly come back to help out with summer ventures. Tim is proud to have maintained everything that was originally so successful at The Saracen’s and allowing the menu and location to celebrate this iconic inn’s heritage and retain its position as one of the most magical places to visit in North Norfolk.
