Restaurant location is a beauty

Children around the world have shed tears of joy and sadness as they read perennial favourite Black Beauty.

Ever since the popular novel was published in 1877, the Norfolk birthplace of its author, Anna Sewell, has attracted visitors to the seaside town of Yarmouth.

But now the cottage could be drawing food lovers to its doors as well when it opens as a restaurant later this month.

Born in 1820 in the building, Anna Sewell was inspired to write her only novel after she grew up lame and had to rely on horses to transport around her home town and the surrounding countryside.

But now Richard Hughes, proprietor of the Lavender House at Brundall, will reopen the cottage, which dates back to 1641, in Church Plain as a restaurant on November 29.

Mr Hughes, who writes for the EDP and has made numerous television appearances, chose the tiny building, now called Anna Sewell House Restaurant, because he thought it would be perfect venue for romantic couples or small groups of friends.

He said: “This is such a wonderful historic building and I want to make sure I keep as much of its fantastic character as possible.

“Anna Sewell is such an integral part of Yarmouth and I am delighted we can keep that close link going with our restaurant.”

Sadly Anna Sewell, a Quaker, never saw how hugely successful her book became around the world as just five months after Black Beauty was published she died at the age of 58 in her Old Catton home, near Norwich.

She is buried in Norfolk at Lamas, near Buxton.

The Anna Sewell House Restaurant can seat 20 people on tables for two or four, has a small bar at the top of the building and will serve dinners from Wednesday to Saturday and lunches from Wednesday to Friday.

Mr Hughes has promoted his pastry chef at the Lavender House, Julia Hetherton, to the post of head chef at his new Yarmouth venture.

For information on opening times and the menu visit the website - www.annasewellhouserestaurant.co.uk.