Crackling fires, fine food and local ales welcomed the launch of Lord Somerleyton's latest venture when he opened the doors to the newly refurbished Fritton Arms pub.

Norwich Evening News: The Fritton Arms pub, Lord Somerleyton's latest venture. Ben Davenport, manager, behind the bar. Picture: supplied.The Fritton Arms pub, Lord Somerleyton's latest venture. Ben Davenport, manager, behind the bar. Picture: supplied. (Image: Archant)

The inn, which sits within 200 acres of parkland, was formerly the leased out Fritton House but has now been transformed into a classic country pub and hotel, after it was handed back to the estate last November.

Lord Somerleyton and his wife Lara, along with manager Ben Davenport - who heads up hospitality across the estate's food and beverage businesses - have since refurbished the building, and opened it as the Fritton Arms this week.

Lord Somerleyton said: 'When I previously launched Fritton House in 2006, I was still very much a Londoner and naturally focused on the hotel side of the business.

'Whilst we were very popular locally, we were always aware the 'hotel tag' was a barrier to those wanting just to come and have a pint. So when the opportunity came up to take the business back, Lara, Ben and I worked hard to change the ethos to that of our sister pub - the Duke's Head in Somerleyton – thus the Fritton Arms was born.

'It's a relaxed and comfortable place where you can pitch up, have a pint, grab a bite to eat with friends, family and colleagues in wonderful surroundings.'

The building's fireplaces have been reinstated, a billiard room set up and alongside the extensive menu, the bar is also serving up a raft of local ales and eclectic spirits.

And Lord Somerleyton already has plans to expand the business by adding four new rooms to the original nine, and installing five new safari tents in the grounds.