Since 1685
Our Story
Three centuries of welcome, from coaching inn to cherished Norfolk retreat.
1685
A Coaching Inn is Born
The Blue Boar was built during the reign of King Charles II as a coaching inn on the road through Great Ryburgh. Horses were changed here, travellers rested, and tales were told beside the great fireplace that still stands today.
The village of Great Ryburgh itself has far deeper roots — mentioned in the Domesday Book of 1086. The inn stands opposite St Andrew\'s Church, one of Norfolk\'s famous round tower churches, a landmark that has watched over the village for nearly a thousand years.
Through The Centuries
Stories in Every Stone
Over three centuries, The Blue Boar has seen kings and queens come and go, watched the world change beyond its walls, and kept its doors open through it all. Local legend speaks of secret passages connecting the inn to the church across the road — and of a friendly ghost or two who have never quite checked out.
The early photographs show the inn as a Bullard\'s pub — "Fine Ales, Wines and Spirits" — with horses still tied at the door and the village gathered outside. The coaching yard where horses were once stabled is now our cottage garden, where herbs and flowers grow for the breakfast table.
2008 — Present
James & Laura\'s Chapter
In 2008, James and Laura fell in love with the old coaching inn and began a careful, loving renovation. Their goal was simple: to honour the building\'s remarkable heritage while creating a place of genuine comfort and quality.
Today, the inn retains its original ingle nook fireplace, its cosy corners, and the rambling character that comes from 340 years of gentle evolution. But the rooms are warm and inviting, the beds are excellent, and the breakfasts are the best in rural North Norfolk.
James and Laura are hands-on hosts who know every footpath, every restaurant, and every hidden beach in the area. They\'re always happy to share their local knowledge over a drink from The Honesty Bar.
The Building
A listed coaching inn with period character
The Blue Boar is a Grade II listed building, reflecting its importance as part of Norfolk\'s architectural heritage. The inn\'s most striking feature is the original ingle nook fireplace, where a wood-burning stove now sits within the massive brick surround.
Throughout the building, you\'ll discover the charming quirks that centuries bestow: differing floor levels, low beams, cosy alcoves, and windows that frame views of the church and garden.
The cottage garden, tended by Laura, provides herbs, flowers, and soft fruit that find their way to The Wensum Table each morning. It\'s a peaceful spot for an afternoon read or a glass of something from The Honesty Bar.