Norfolk pub named second best ‘Country Pub of the Year’ 2017 in Countryfile contest

The Earle Arms in Heydon, near Aylsham, came in joint second place with The Stein Inn on the Isle of Skye, and the winner was Crosskeys Inn, County Antrim in Northern Island.

The village pub, was described as an ''idyllic foodie heaven, and a fiercely guarded secret among its loyal patrons.'

Landlord Andrew Harrison-Taylor, aged 50, said: 'A lot of pubs have taken the soul out over the year by changing things too much, we haven't made any drastic changes and have kept it a traditional pub with candlelight and a fire.

'We also use lots of local ingredients from Norfolk farms and butchers in our restaurants.

The Earle Arms has been awarded joint second place in the 'Country Pub of the Year' 2017 competition. Picture: David Bale (Image: David Bale)

'It was marvellous to be nominated, and we are very proud - I'm sure we will have a beer to celebrate.'

MORE: Ten things that make the Earle Arms in Heydon, near Aylsham, one of the best pubs in BritainThis isn't the first time Heydon has been in the spotlight, as the church and village green were used for the 1970s Monty Python TV Sketch 'The Village Idiot'.

The late Heath Ledger and Coldplay frontman Chris Martin have also visited the pub.

A total of 56,000 votes were cast in the Countryfile Magazine Awards for more than 12 categories.

Jo and Andrew Harrison-Taylor, at the Earle Arms. Picture: David Bale (Image: David Bale)