The Bull Inn

The Bull Inn has stood on this site since the 16th century with a "new" south wing having been built in the 18th century. In the past, the Inn grounds boasted a bowling green, a lawn-tennis court and a croquet lawn - none of which unfortunately, exist today.

Legend has it that during the period of her romance with the Earl of Leicester, Queen Elizabeth I slept here and Queen Victoria I is said to have visited twice - the first when she was a princess and the second when she had ascended the throne, this time accompanied by the young Prince (Edward VII).

The Bull Inn was a favourite stopping place on the journey from London to Norwich, Kings Lynn or Swaffham for the mail and stage coaches and has welcomed many notable visitors over the years.

These included a party of approximately 40 men who dined for lunch at the Bull Inn in 1916. The group included Mr. Lloyd George (the Minister for War at the time) and other Headquarters staff and Admiralty who had been on a secret inspection of tanks in action at Elveden where secret training had been carried out before the tank made its very first appearance at the Battle of the Somme.

There have been many proprietors over the years including the newest owner who purchased the grade II listed building after it had stood empty and boarded up for over a year. It is now being restored to its former glory and once again, following a centuries old tradition, weary travellers will be able to stop off on their journey along the highway (the A11 !) for refreshment at the Bull Inn.

Copyright 2000: C.Mullender