Norfolk Broads pub The Stag celebrates hit first year open

The Stag in Salhouse, under the ownership of Lester and Katie Bayfield, has quickly become a hit pub destination near the Norfolk Broads.

“It’s been so busy – almost too busy!" laughed Alex Walters, who worked as general manager at the time of the pub's opening and continues to work for the Bayfield family.

Pub owners Lester and Katie Bayfield (Image: Denise Bradley)

To celebrate its first birthday, the pub hosted a full day of celebrations on Saturday.

"We had around 200 people constantly at the pub throughout the day," said Alex.

"That is really busy for a small pub!"

Diners enjoyed pizza, food from the barbecue and live music - as well as the launch of a new pub menu.

The Stag was completely refurbished (Image: Denise Bradley)

The Stag, which used to be called The Bell, underwent a £200,000 refurbishment spearheaded by the Bayfield family, the developers who had recently worked on Salhouse Hall.

A finalist from the 2023 season of the BBC’s Interior Design Masters, Jack Kinsey, also helped with the plans to help the pub become a “bit more glam,” according to Alex.

“The transformation was huge - from dark and dingy to a glamourous foodie destination.

"Everything was completely redone - from the kitchen to the restaurant, to the rooms."

The pub, which used to be called The Bell, was gutted during the renovations (Image: The Stag at Salhouse)

And, from the very start, the pub proved popular both with local folk and those travelling from further afield.

READ MORE: Owner celebrates 'incredible' first year at hit Broads pub and restaurant

"It's been a whirlwind, but we also feel very lucky that it has been so loved," said Alex.

Alex Walters has been involved with The Stag from the start (Image: Alex Walters)

“It has been a tough time to set up a business in the hospitality sector.

"It is overwhelming to see us doing well while others are struggling.

"We are very grateful to everyone who has supported us."

The pub has plans to show part of the Euro 2024 tournament in the garden (Image: Denise Bradley)

The pub plans to host more barbecues, jazz events and quizzes throughout the summer and will be showing some of the Euro 2024 matches in the garden.

The Stag is open from 12noon to 12am from Tuesday to Friday, between 12noon and 8.30pm and until 6pm on Sundays.

The pub underwent an extensive renovation (Image: Alex Walters) Now, the rooms have a touch of 'glam' (Image: Alex Walters)