The Wildebeest: Refined British Cuisine in Stoke Holy Cross
Michelin Bib Gourmand fine dining near Norwich, offering seasonal modern British cuisine in a relaxed, elegant setting.
The Wildebeest is a Michelin Bib Gourmand and 3 AA Rosette fine dining restaurant located in Stoke Holy Cross, near Norwich. Chef Patron Daniel Smith crafts seasonally inspired modern British dishes using locally sourced Norfolk produce. The restaurant offers a sophisticated yet relaxed atmosphere with an emphasis on quality, creativity, and attentive service, making it a destination for special occasions and culinary enthusiasts.
A brief summary to The Wildebeest
- 82-86 Norwich Rd, Norwich, Stoke Holy Cross, NR14 8QJ, GB
- +441508492497
- Visit website
- Duration: 1.5 to 3 hours
- Luxury
-
Indoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
- Monday 12 pm-2 pm
- Tuesday 12 pm-2 pm
- Wednesday 12 pm-2 pm
- Thursday 12 pm-2 pm
- Friday 12 pm-2 pm
- Saturday 12 pm-2 pm
- Sunday 12 pm-4 pm
Local tips
- Book in advance, especially for weekend and Sunday lunch services, as the restaurant is popular for special occasions.
- Try the tasting menu for a full experience of the chef’s seasonal creativity and Norfolk-inspired dishes.
- Be aware that the restaurant has two service periods daily: lunch and dinner, with a break in between.
- Optional service charge is fully distributed to the staff; tipping is appreciated but not mandatory.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
The Wildebeest location weather suitability
-
Any Weather
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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about The Wildebeest
A Culinary Beacon in Norfolk's Countryside
Nestled in the village of Stoke Holy Cross just outside Norwich, The Wildebeest stands out as a distinguished fine dining restaurant celebrated for its refined British cuisine. The establishment holds a coveted Michelin Bib Gourmand and has been awarded 3 AA Rosettes, reflecting its high standards and consistent quality. The restaurant occupies a charming building that at first glance resembles a roadside pub but reveals a spacious and airy interior designed with a blend of rustic and modern touches, including bare floors, moody photographic art, and lush plants.Chef Daniel Smith’s Seasonal Vision
At the heart of The Wildebeest is Chef Patron Daniel Smith, whose culinary roots are deeply embedded in classical techniques. His kitchen team is dedicated to creating dishes that celebrate the best of Norfolk’s seasonal produce. The menu is dynamic, changing daily to highlight fresh, hand-selected ingredients from trusted local farmers and growers. Signature dishes often include luxurious elements such as monkfish with brown shrimps, seared scallops paired with pork belly and boudin, and expertly cooked John Dory finished with elegant Champagne sauce. The kitchen’s approach balances tradition with inventive flair, delivering rich and generous plates that are thoughtfully composed.An Inviting Ambience with Attentive Service
The Wildebeest offers a relaxed yet sophisticated dining environment where guests can enjoy carefully laid tables and banquettes that encourage comfort. The atmosphere is lively but intimate, suitable for celebrations or a special night out. Service is generally attentive and knowledgeable, with staff eager to explain dishes and accommodate guests’ needs. While some reviews note occasional inconsistencies in service or atmosphere, the restaurant’s commitment to quality and hospitality remains clear.Menus and Dining Experience
Guests can choose from a variety of menus including a seven-course tasting menu, an à la carte selection, and a more budget-friendly set menu du jour. Sunday lunches feature Wildebeest favorites with weekly updates. The restaurant emphasizes that every element on the plate serves a purpose, ensuring a harmonious balance of flavors and textures. Optional service charges are fully distributed to the restaurant team, underscoring the value placed on staff dedication.Accolades and Recognition
The Wildebeest’s reputation is bolstered by numerous awards and recognitions, including consecutive Michelin Guide recommendations, multiple AA Rosettes, and accolades from the Observer Food Monthly Awards and Eat Norfolk Food & Drink Awards. Chef Daniel Smith’s personal achievements, such as Norfolk Chef of the Year and participation in BBC2’s Great British Menu, further enhance the restaurant’s prestige.Setting and Accessibility
Located on Norwich Road in Stoke Holy Cross, The Wildebeest benefits from a semi-rural setting with ample parking and a garden terrace. The venue’s understated exterior belies the culinary excellence within, making it a hidden gem for visitors seeking a refined dining experience near Norwich. The restaurant’s approachability combined with its elevated cuisine makes it a standout destination in East Anglia’s gastronomic landscape.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Pull's Ferry
6.8 km
A tranquil 15th-century watergate and ferry house on Norwich’s River Wensum, blending rich medieval history with scenic riverside charm.
VisitNorwich
8.0 km
Discover Norwich Cathedral’s soaring Norman spire, medieval carvings, and tranquil cloisters nestled in a vast historic sanctuary.
Faircraft Loynes
17.4 km
Discover the beauty of the Broads with Faircraft Loynes, your premier boat tour agency and rental service in Wroxham, offering unforgettable waterway experiences.
Wroxham Bridge
17.5 km
Historic 17th-century bridge and vibrant boating hub connecting Wroxham and Hoveton on the scenic Norfolk Broads.
TourNorfolk
23.8 km
Discover the essential internet marketing services at TourNorfolk, where local charm meets digital expertise in the heart of Barton Turf.
Potter Heigham bridge
24.7 km
Historic 14th-century bridge and boating hub in Norfolk Broads, blending medieval charm with scenic waterways and vibrant village life.
Visit The Broads
25.6 km
Your gateway to exploring the enchanting waterways, wildlife, and heritage of the Norfolk Broads National Park.
Eye Castle
29.4 km
Discover the historic Eye Castle, a medieval gem in Eye, England, offering stunning architecture and rich history for curious travelers.
Pudding tower
29.5 km
Explore Pudding Tower, a medieval defensive relic in Great Yarmouth, steeped in history and local lore from the town’s fortified past.
War Memorial
29.6 km
A solemn tribute in Great Yarmouth, honouring local service personnel and civilians lost in 20th-century conflicts with quiet dignity and enduring respect.
Merrivale Model Village
29.9 km
Step into a whimsical world of miniature wonders, where every corner holds a surprise and the magic of the English countryside comes to life in miniature.
The Upside Down House - Great Yarmouth
29.9 km
Step inside Great Yarmouth’s quirky Upside Down House for a brief, disorienting, and highly Instagrammable experience that flips your world upside down.
National Trust - Horsey Windpump
30.0 km
Explore the historic Horsey Windpump in the Broads National Park, a charming blend of nature, history, and breathtaking views.
East Ruston Old Vicarage Garden
30.0 km
Explore the breathtaking East Ruston Old Vicarage Garden, a hidden gem in Norfolk, filled with stunning flora, serene landscapes, and tranquil charm.
Gressenhall Farm & Workhouse
30.1 km
Explore Gressenhall Farm & Workhouse: A unique blend of history, farm life, and nature in the heart of Norfolk.
Unmissable attractions to see
Whitlingham Country Park
6.2 km
280 acres of restored nature where gravel pits became lakes, perfect for water sports, wildlife watching, and family adventures.
Chantry Place
6.3 km
Norwich’s vibrant shopping centre with over 90 stores, diverse dining, and convenient city centre parking for a seamless retail experience.
Castle Quarter
6.5 km
Castle Quarter Norwich: Five levels of shopping, dining, and entertainment in the city centre with cinema, bowling, and more.
The Broads Authority
6.5 km
The Broads Authority at Yare House leads conservation and navigation management for the iconic Norfolk and Suffolk Broads National Park.
Norwich Castle
6.6 km
Explore 900 years of history and art in Norwich Castle’s majestic Norman Keep and internationally renowned museum galleries.
Jarrolds
6.7 km
Historic family-owned department store in Norwich blending heritage charm with modern retail across fashion, home, and local crafts.
The Plantation Garden
6.8 km
Norwich's volunteer-restored Victorian gem with Gothic fountains and woodland walks.
Looses Emporium
7.2 km
Discover a labyrinth of vintage treasures and quirky antiques in Norwich’s beloved Looses Emporium on Magdalen Street.
Cow Tower
7.3 km
Explore Cow Tower, Norwich’s rare medieval artillery blockhouse guarding the River Wensum with commanding views and rich history.
RSPB Surlingham Church Marsh
8.6 km
Discover tranquil reed beds and rich wildlife at RSPB Surlingham Church Marsh, a Norfolk wetland sanctuary along the River Yare.
Wheatfen Broad - Ted Ellis Trust
9.7 km
Discover Norfolk’s hidden fenland gem where rare wildlife thrives in tranquil marshes and woodlands managed by the Ted Ellis Trust.
Strumpshaw Fen
11.1 km
Explore Norfolk’s tranquil Broadland sanctuary with rich wildlife, peaceful trails, and scenic river views at RSPB Strumpshaw Fen.
RSPB Buckenham and Cantley Marshes
12.1 km
Norfolk's premier wetland sanctuary where Arctic geese winter and raptors hunt over thousands of wildfowl.
Blofield Farm Shop
13.1 km
Authentic Norfolk flavors and farm-fresh produce in a welcoming rural setting near Norwich.
Salhouse Broad
15.5 km
Discover Salhouse Broad’s unique sandy beaches, rich wildlife, and tranquil Norfolk Broads setting for a peaceful nature escape.
Essential places to dine
The Wildebeest
0.0 km
Michelin Bib Gourmand fine dining near Norwich, blending seasonal Norfolk produce with modern British culinary artistry in a relaxed, elegant setting.
Stoke Mill Restaurant
0.3 km
Historic riverside mill turned elegant fine dining restaurant blending British tradition with contemporary culinary artistry.
Stoke Mill STORE
0.3 km
Experience Michelin-starred contemporary dining in a historic 700-year-old watermill on the scenic River Tas near Norwich.
Mark Poynton at Caistor Hall
1.9 km
Experience Michelin-starred modern British cuisine in the elegant, historic Caistor Hall near Norwich.
The Cellar House
5.3 km
A charming family-run pub in Norwich’s Eaton district, blending traditional British hospitality with beautifully crafted modern cuisine.
Roger Hickman's Restaurant
6.7 km
Elegant modern British fine dining with French flair in the heart of Norwich’s historic district.
The Ferry House
9.2 km
A charming riverside pub in Surlingham offering hearty British fare, peaceful views, and warm hospitality on the Norfolk Broads.
The Kings Head
10.5 km
A charming 4-star gastropub and inn in Bawburgh blending historic character with exceptional seasonal dining and cozy accommodation.
Reedham Ferry Inn
17.2 km
A charming riverside pub and campsite by the Norfolk Broads with scenic ferry crossings and classic British hospitality.
Wherrymans
17.5 km
A friendly riverside café and bar in Wroxham offering great coffee, casual dining, and a welcoming atmosphere by the Norfolk Broads.
The Old Mill
17.6 km
Family-run British café bar with classic breakfasts and grills, set by the riverside in Hoveton near the Norfolk Broads.
The Maltsters
17.7 km
A welcoming family-run pub and restaurant in Ranworth offering hearty local dishes and a cozy atmosphere amid the scenic Norfolk Broads.
Rising Sun Coltishall
18.3 km
Charming riverside pub and inn in Coltishall serving hearty British fare with warm hospitality and scenic Norfolk Broads views.
King's Head Coltishall
18.4 km
Historic Norfolk gastropub blending award-winning British cuisine, cozy B&B stays, and scenic Broads views in charming Coltishall village.
The Kings Head Inn, home of The Acle Steak
18.7 km
Traditional Norfolk charm meets hearty British fare at The Kings Head Inn, home of the iconic Acle Steak.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Inanna's Magical Gifts
6.8 km
Discover mystical treasures and handcrafted artistry at Inanna's Magical Gifts, Norwich’s premier metaphysical boutique.
Norwich Lanes
6.8 km
Discover Norwich Lanes, a vibrant maze of independent shops, artisan cafes, and historic charm in the heart of Norwich city centre.
Elm Hill Craft Shop
6.9 km
Discover handcrafted gifts and nostalgic treasures in the heart of Norwich’s historic Elm Hill at Elm Hill Craft Shop.
Cathedral Shop
6.9 km
Discover unique Norfolk crafts and Cathedral treasures at Norwich Cathedral’s charming Gift Shop in the historic Cathedral Close.
Anglia Square
7.5 km
Eclectic shopping and vibrant local character converge in Norwich’s distinctive Anglia Square urban centre.
Crocks Of Bungay
15.7 km
Explore the charm of local craftsmanship at Crocks Of Bungay, a must-visit gift shop in Bungay offering unique handmade pottery and artisan goods.
The Bridge Gift Shop
17.6 km
Discover unique local crafts and authentic souvenirs at The Bridge Gift Shop, a charming stop in the heart of Norfolk’s Broads.
Roys of Wroxham Department store
17.7 km
Discover traditional British charm and a vast array of goods at Roys of Wroxham, Norfolk’s iconic department store and festive shopping haven.
A Piece Of Cake
18.1 km
Cozy tea room and bakery in Coltishall, serving fresh cakes, hearty breakfasts, and traditional British fare in a charming riverside village setting.
Reedham Stores
18.5 km
A welcoming village convenience store offering local flavors and essentials in the heart of Norfolk Broads’ scenic Reedham.
The Galley Horning
18.8 km
Discover the flavors of Norfolk at The Galley Horning, where gourmet deli delights meet charming cafe culture in a picturesque village setting.
Tidings
18.8 km
Discover Tidings, your go-to convenience store in Horning, offering essential supplies and local delights for travelers exploring the Norfolk Broads.
Ludham Bridge Stores
20.4 km
Charming general store offering fresh local produce, souvenirs, and essentials in the heart of the Norfolk Broads’ boating community.
Vintage Mischief
21.9 km
Discover unique vintage and mid-century treasures in a charming Beccles antique shop nestled in a historic dairy building.
Lathams of Potter Heigham
24.8 km
Norfolk Broads’ largest discount superstore and pet shop with extensive shopping, fishing tackle, garden centre, and artisan café.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
The Wallow | Self Service Wine Bar
6.8 km
Discover Norwich’s pioneering self-service wine bar offering over 50 wines, delicious sharing platters, and a relaxed, stylish atmosphere.
Coldham Hall
10.3 km
Charming riverside pub and bespoke wedding venue on the scenic Norfolk Broads, blending rustic warmth with stunning natural views.
The Ferry Inn of Horning
18.2 km
A lively traditional pub on the Norfolk Broads offering hearty fare, riverside charm, and a family-friendly atmosphere.
The Lord Nelson
18.4 km
Charming riverside pub on the Norfolk Broads offering quality ales, fresh British fare, and private moorings in a welcoming community setting.
Innkeeper's Collection Norfolk Broads, Horning
18.8 km
Charming riverside inn on the Norfolk Broads offering cozy rooms, classic pub dining, and scenic waterway views in the heart of Horning village.
The Swan Inn
18.8 km
Charming riverside pub and inn in Horning offering cozy rooms, hearty British fare, and scenic views along the Norfolk Broads.
Dog Inn Ludham
20.9 km
A welcoming, dog-friendly pub in Ludham offering hearty home-cooked meals, local ales, and a cozy campsite in the Norfolk Broads.
White Horse Inn Neatishead
21.8 km
Charming historic pub with award-winning ales, seasonal menus, and a welcoming atmosphere on the Norfolk Broads.
The Harnser
27.1 km
Historic pub and cozy B&B in Stalham Green, blending traditional Norfolk charm with gourmet dining and scenic countryside comfort.
Lady Haven
28.8 km
A cozy, affordable pub in Great Yarmouth offering friendly vibes and a welcoming atmosphere for locals and visitors alike.
The Rumbold Arms
29.1 km
A friendly, family-oriented pub in Great Yarmouth known for hearty home-cooked meals, lively community spirit, and a spacious garden with play area.
Tombstone Brewery & Saloon Bar
29.1 km
Experience Great Yarmouth’s craft beer culture in a lively Old West saloon setting with award-winning ales and a warm, welcoming atmosphere.
Duke's Head Hotel
29.1 km
Historic coastal charm and friendly hospitality converge at Duke's Head Hotel, a welcoming bar and stay in Great Yarmouth’s heart.
The William Adams
29.2 km
A vibrant coastal pub honoring Gorleston’s lifesaving hero with great food, real ales, and a welcoming community vibe.
The Mariners
29.2 km
A beloved Great Yarmouth pub famed for its rich selection of cask ales, lively atmosphere, and authentic British charm.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Loft Nightclub
6.6 km
Norwich’s vibrant gay nightclub with over 30 years of inclusive nightlife, music, and community spirit in the heart of the city.
Popworld - Norwich
6.7 km
Norwich’s vibrant late-night hotspot for pop hits, friendly vibes, and unforgettable party nights on Prince of Wales Road.
Fluke
6.7 km
Experience Norwich’s vibrant nightlife at Fluke, where great music, affordable drinks, and a lively crowd come together for unforgettable nights.
Sugar & Spice - Strip Club and Lap Dancing Norwich
6.7 km
Norwich’s premier American-style strip club offering vibrant entertainment, VIP experiences, and a welcoming atmosphere for all guests.
Mojo's
6.7 km
Mojo's: Norwich's gritty, no-frills nightclub pulsing with late-night beats and authentic urban energy.
Mantra
6.7 km
Experience vibrant nightlife and great music at Mantra Nightclub, Norwich’s energetic weekend party destination with friendly staff and affordable drinks.
ClubKA
28.6 km
Traditional charm meets lively nightlife at The Kings Arms Hotel and ClubKA in North Walsham, offering comfort, great food, and late-night fun.
Moonlight Cabaret & Karaoke
28.9 km
Experience lively karaoke nights and captivating cabaret shows in the heart of Great Yarmouth’s vibrant nightlife scene.
Buddha Club
29.9 km
Experience Great Yarmouth’s vibrant nightlife at Buddha Club, where modern beats, colorful lights, and coastal vibes create unforgettable weekend nights.
Mavvy’s
30.0 km
Experience Great Yarmouth’s vibrant nightlife at Mavvy’s, where music, dancing, and lively atmosphere come alive until the early hours.
Fallen Angels
30.1 km
Experience vibrant nightlife and adult entertainment at Fallen Angels, Great Yarmouth’s premier late-night club on Marine Parade.
The Bermuda Club
30.3 km
A welcoming nightclub and bar in Hemsby offering lively evenings, family-friendly nights, and affordable drinks near Norfolk’s scenic coast.
Sole Bay Bowls Club
36.1 km
Discover the serene beauty and community spirit of Sole Bay Bowls Club in Southwold, where leisure and tradition blend seamlessly.
Southwold Cricket Club
37.0 km
Discover the rich heritage of cricket at Southwold Cricket Club, where tradition meets the enchanting charm of Southwold's coast.
St Edmund's Hall
37.3 km
Discover the vibrant performing arts scene at St Edmund's Hall in Southwold, where culture and scenic beauty meet for an unforgettable experience.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Relaxing
- Scenic
- Casual
- Boutique
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Rustic Designs
- Modern Designs
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Art & Design
- Parks & Gardens
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Architectural Shots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Locally Managed
- Public-Transport Accessible
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Weekend Getaway
- Festival / Event Nearby
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Adult Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Senior Friendly
