What were once Victorian tea rooms is now an elegant, modern dining experience. The Water’s Edge has a great little story to tell, much like the people behind it and the historical Woods End location. We thought that if we share the rich history behind our place, our customers can enjoy a greater appreciation of the dining experience overall. Let’s dive in…
Water's Edge Bar & Restaurant, Our bar/restaurant is situated in the hamlet of the Woods End, which is a historical area that has an entirely unique story of its own to tell before becoming the Water’s Edge. The inn itself has been in existence prior to 1700 and was a popular haunt in Victorian times offering tea rooms and pleasant gardens. Today we can still offer you the pleasant scenery, but would probably direct you towards our extensive international Wine List, rather than just a cup of tea. Currently the Water’s Edge bar and restaurant is a thriving social hub for locals and Norfolk Broads adventurers alike, charming everyone with its stunning views, modern menu and dedicated staff. And with Lee the owner in attendance, the future of our internationally inspired gastro bar/restaurant is looking very promising indeed. Our light, airy and modern establishment offers a proper taste of Norfolk, showcasing the ultimate transformation of a classic country English pub into a modern bar/restaurant serving freshly catered cuisine with a truly personal service. We’ve come a long way since serving scones in the 1700s! Billy Blue Light
But, before we even arrived to renovate the pub, there was a local standing at the water’s edge with something to say…
It was Billy Blue Light! This is the humble male figure you will surely spot when visiting us at the Water’s Edge, a life-size statue of the local character who is most remembered for challenging boats to a race along the banks of the River Wensum & Yare. The most amazing thing about Billy is that he’s been “45 years old” for some time now. Be sure to take a cheeky photo when you visit, with Billy starring in it! Our establishment is overlooking a tight corner of the River Yare, which has been a popular spot for water-skiers since the eighties. In light of this sport, we have now installed new decking areas where you can watch any water skiers, wildlife and all the other happy holidaymakers enjoying the beautiful Norfolk Broads. More recently, the greatest attraction of the Water’s Edge Woods End pub is the mysterious ‘Blue Swans’ that have been sighted after dusk. So if you are joining us for the evening, be sure to bring your camera, just in case!
