10 Reasons To Visit The Low House In Laxfield

The Low House in Laxfield, also known as The Kings Head

It’s nearly the weekend! And what better way to start an autumn weekend than a trip to the local pub. A few weeks ago I visited The Low House in Laxfield for the first time – can’t believe I’d been missing out on this gem all these years! Here are 10 reasons why you should visit:

  1. The taproom

    This pub has no bar – yes, you read correctly! Instead The Low House is one of the few remaining pubs with a taproom where customers can walk right into the room where their pints are poured straight from the barrel. That’s an experience not to miss!

2. It’s owned by the community

The Low House was bought in May 2018 by a Community Interest Company, formed by 8 local people who wanted to return the pub (also known as The King’s Head) to a traditional country inn. The profits go back into the pub and the local community, meaning that your hard earned beer money benefits a good cause!

3. Proper pub food

Landlord Al Clarke was keen for the pub to offer traditional pub food, rather than become a pub/restaurant. Local chef Daniel has come on board to offer a new menu that includes classics such as fish pie, Sunday roasts, lasagne and sandwiches. There’s also the option of a beetroot burger with halloumi (yes please!) or lamb’s liver and bacon served with mash and local veggies.

4. Real ale

The pub’s mission is to offer a fantastic range of well kept real ales. Beers currently on offer include brews from Green Jack, St Peter’s, Earl Soham Victoria and Adnams. Landlord Al has a real passion for craft beers and is ultimately hoping to have a big range of bottled beers. He often has new beers to try from around the country, so it’s worth popping in every so often to find out what’s new.

5. Traditional pub atmosphere

The CIC has brought the 15th century pub back to life by lovingly restoring it with traditional colours, decorations, new signage and hanging baskets from Woottens Plants. The original design features such as the tiled floor, low ceilings and oak beams create the atmosphere of your much-loved Suffolk pub.

The Low House in Laxfield
The Low House in Laxfield

6. Carriage rides

Horse-drawn carriage rides were a tradition of the pub, and the new CIC is bringing this back.

7. The beer garden

There is a courtyard and large garden which are perfect for al fresco drinks and dining in the summer months (and early autumn!). There’s a place to play petanque and a fire pit ready for the cooler months approaching.

8. The pavilion

The beer garden has a beautiful little pavilion at the bottom which can be heated and decorated with fairy lights for an extra space to dine or relax with drinks.

Pavilion in the garden
Pavilion in the garden

9. Harvest Supper

The Low House will be hosting lots of events throughout the year, from beer festivals to live music nights. On September 18th and 19th there will be a Harvest Supper created with locally grown produce offered by the community. Chef Daniel is serving up an exclusive menu at lunch and dinner time with two courses for just £12.95. If you have any surplus veggies from your garden or allotment, bring them to Dan by September 16th and they’ll feature in his special dishes!

10. Bed & breakfast

What could be better after a night at the pub? A quick walk to your bed! If you fancy staying over after a great night sampling real ale, then The Low House has two double rooms and a suite for family accommodation that is right on site.

Images courtesy of Gemma Scopes, Heels and Horseshoes Photography. Thank you Gemma!