OpenChopsticks Chinese Foods take-away
86A High St, Watton, Thetford IP25 6AH, United Kingdom
Welcome to The Old Bell
The Old Bell offers a quintessential British pub experience nestled in the heart of Saham Toney. With a cozy atmosphere and friendly service, this establishment serves as a cornerstone for both locals and visitors. The diverse menu features hearty meals, from classic fish and chips to a fantastic Sunday carvery, celebrating traditional English fare. Whether you enjoy a refreshing pint from their impressive beer selection or one of their delightful cocktails, The Old Bell captures the spirit of community and camaraderie. Special features include outdoor seating, live music, and bar games, fostering an inviting vibe for all.
Just a stone’s throw from Thetford, this pub caters to everyone, making it an ideal spot for families, friends, or even a quiet solo meal.
Welcome to The Old Bell, a charming pub and restaurant located in Saham Toney, Thetford. With a casual and cosy atmosphere, it’s the perfect spot for solo diners, families, and groups seeking delicious food and great drinks. Indulge in a diverse menu featuring hearty pizzas, succulent steaks, and a traditional Sunday carvery, all paired with an exceptional selection of ales and wines. Enjoy outdoor seating, live music, and bar games while soaking in the friendly vibe. Accessible and inviting, The Old Bell is your go-to destination for a delightful culinary experience in the heart of the village.Services, Amenities and More
Service options
Outdoor seating
Dine-in
Delivery
Highlights
Bar games
Great beer selection
Great wine list
Live music
Live performances
Popular for
Solo dining
Accessibility
Wheelchair-accessible car park
Wheelchair-accessible entrance
Wheelchair-accessible toilet
Offerings
Alcohol
Beer
Cocktails
Food
Food at bar
Happy-hour food
Spirits
Wine
Dining options
Seating
Table service
Photo Gallery
View Menu Photos
Reviews Overview
Most Liked
Patrons rave about the exceptional quality of the food. The Sunday carvery is a standout, providing tender meats and tasty vegetables at a great price, making it a popular family choice. Many also enjoy the cozy ambiance, noting how the pub feels like a home away from home.
The wide selection of ales and wines impresses visitors, with many appreciating both the familiar favorites and unique local brews available. Friendly staff and the cheeky landlord add to the overall experience, creating memorable interactions that enhance the local charm of The Old Bell.
The dog-friendly policy welcomes fur companions, ensuring that dog owners can enjoy a meal with their pals by their side. There's a sense of community here, which makes every visit feel personal.
Most Disliked
Some patrons mention the occasional wait during peak hours. The busiest times, particularly on Wednesday evenings, can lead to longer waiting periods for tables and service, which might require a little patience.
A few guests have pointed out that on selected busy days, the carvery may run low on options towards the end of service, leading to disappointment if one arrives just before closing.
Additionally, while the atmosphere is generally lively, some visitors have noted that the noise level can rise during live performances or crowded events, which might not suit everyone’s preference for a quiet meal.
User Reviews
GA
Gary A.
Loved this place, real local. Great ales lovely people. From the looks of it cheeky landlord visit. We had pizza and starters was lovely
DB
Deborah B.
We had a lovely meal here. My husband had fish and chips and I had the lasagna. Both meals were excellent and very reasonable. A good dog friendly pub we will be back!
Bl
Blissimosa1
Always busy and friendly. Good food and range of drinks. Lovely garden although the wasp nest needs dealing with!
AB
Adam B.
Went for a Sunday carvery with family including children/baby. Nice warm atmosphere with real fire, proper English country pub. Lovely great quality drinks at a good price, and good service. Booked for 1:30pm as the carvery finished at 2pm. Was a bit concerned when walked in as appeared just remains of meat and veg, however there was just enough meat and they re-stocked the veg etc. The beef was some of the best I’ve had, perfectly cooked and very tender. The gravy was to die for, and the veg, Yorkshire and stuffing all good. Also had some very nice deserts. Amazing value at £11 for 2 courses! Would definitely recommend, just maybe a bit earlier to ensure get the meat choice you want (Turkey, Beef, Pork or Gammon).
MA
Melanie A.
We went for a charity bike ride to the Old Bell and the amazing staff took good care of us and was super friendly! Definitely recommend and will be back soon
YL
Yuriy L.
Nice pool table- room slightly tight, overall good atmosphere and amazing service.
NL
Neil L.
Lovely old pub with very friendly locals. We booked in at 2.30pm on Sunday. The Sunday roast (beef, turkey or gammon), cooked that day, was absolutely delicious and the helpings generous! Equally delicious was the puds! Another plus is that's very dog friendly but the lack of real ales is disappointing!
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Location & Hours
Opening Hours
MondayOpen
TuesdayOpen
WednesdayOpen
ThursdayOpen
FridayOpen
SaturdayOpen
SundayOpen
Location
Frequently Asked Questions
The Old Bell offers a diverse menu featuring homemade dishes, including pizza, steak, fish and chips, and options for kids like chicken goujons. The food quality stands out and is fairly priced, making it a local favorite.
Yes, The Old Bell provides outdoor seating, perfect for enjoying a meal or drinks in a casual setting. It's great for soaking in the atmosphere while enjoying a selection of ales and wines.
Absolutely. The Old Bell accepts reservations, which is recommended, especially during peak times like weekends when locals and tourists flock to this cozy pub.
Yes, The Old Bell is wheelchair accessible, with designated accessible parking, entrances, and toilets to ensure a comfortable experience for all guests.
Why visit The Old Bell
Visiting The Old Bell should be on everyone's to-do list when in Saham Toney. For those seeking an authentic English pub experience, this place strikes the perfect balance between hospitality and delightful food. The casual vibe makes it great for both family outings and relaxed date nights.
For a true taste of British culture, arriving on a Sunday for the carvery is a must—especially considering the rave reviews about the tender meats and delicious gravy. Plan your visit a bit earlier to ensure you catch your preferred meat option! Live music nights promise entertainment, while the outdoor seating area is perfect for enjoying warm evenings.
Lastly, The Old Bell embraces a community spirit that welcomes everyone, whether a local or a traveler. An experience here is more than just a meal; it's about enjoying time with others in a joyful setting. Don't miss out on this local treasure!
