There has been a hostelry on the site of The Crown and Castle for around eight centuries, the original inn thought to be built into the walls of Orford castle. In fine weather you can sit on the terrace with a glass of wine and view the castle back-lit by the setting sun.

Good food is a core ingredient of The Crown and Castle. Co-proprietor, Ruth Watson, the award-winning food writer and best-selling cookery book writer sources wonderful local produce and creates menus offering interesting but not stupidly elaborate food. With 2AA rosettes, a Michelin bib gourmand, and a plaudits winning wine list, the Trinity restaurant is cited as a major reason for staying with us.

Bought by Ruth and David Watson in 1999, the Crown and Castle has been completely re-modeled; the 18 bedrooms now feature light, modern interiors with stylish, en-suite bathrooms.

Bedrooms are divided between the main house – first floor bedrooms looking out over Orford’s quiet gardens or towards the estuary, Orford Ness and the sea – and garden rooms, being particularly suitable for guests who want to bring their dogs.

Whilst the facilities are modern, the Crown and Castle prides itself on its good, old fashioned hospitality with an emphasis on attention to detail. To quote the Daily Telegraph: “relaxed, friendly and making the very best of the abundant local produce, the Crown and Castle is the kind of mythical English hotel that everyone says doesn’t exist. Well, here it is.” A sentiment echoed by our regular customers, many of whom come back to stay three or four times a year.