50 Earlham Rd, Norwich NR2 3DE

About This Pub

You know, chatting about The Black Horse feels like sharing tips over a round of drinks – it's one of those Norwich pubs that's got that timeless appeal, with cracking Sunday roasts that often steal the show, drawing in crowds for a proper feed and a laugh. The beer garden's a highlight too, especially when the sun's out and those disco tunes get everyone in the mood for a good time. But, let's be straight, it's not all smooth sailing; I've heard from a few that service can drag, leaving you twiddling your thumbs while waiting for food or even just to order, and the seating arrangements might not always hit the mark, with tables shoved a bit too close or not matching what you booked. Still, with such a solid overall rating, it's clear the good bits shine through for most, so if you're popping by, maybe aim for a quieter slot to dodge the queues and really soak up the atmosphere. All in all, it's a solid choice for a casual night out, as long as you go in with eyes open to the occasional hiccup.

Pros and Cons

Pros
  • The Sunday roasts are absolutely spot on – plenty of folks rave about the flavours and generous portions, making it a real treat for a traditional pub meal.
  • The beer garden is a winner, especially with those disco tunes playing, creating a lively and fun atmosphere that keeps things upbeat.
  • It's got a welcoming vibe overall, with friendly service in many cases and a classic pub feel that's perfect for catching up with mates.
Cons
  • Seating can feel a bit too cosy for comfort, with tables packed close together, which might leave you feeling hemmed in during busier times.
  • Service can be on the slow side, like long waits to order or for food to arrive, which puts a dampener on the experience.
  • Bookings don't always live up to expectations, with some ending up at tiny or unsuitable tables despite what was promised.

Contact Information

50 Earlham Rd, Norwich NR2 3DE
+441603630880
Pub
Open Now

Opening Hours

Monday11:30 - 23:00
Tuesday09:30 - 23:00
Wednesday09:30 - 23:00
Thursday09:30 - 23:00
Friday (Today)09:30 - 23:00
Saturday09:30 - 23:00
Sunday09:30 - 23:00

Location

Recent Reviews

We got there on a Friday evening. The table was booked in advance online. We found seating too close together. I could touch my neighbour seating by just raising my arms to the side, which made me feel uncomfortable. It took a long while to ask if we were ready to order our food. Food took too long to prepare, approximately 50 minutes wait, then my food had to go back to the kitchen and be remade as it didn't come as ordered. Also,when I ordered the food, I requested an upgrade to sweet potato fries, and the waitress did tell me that might not be possible. I was expecting her to come and let me know before I received my meal, but that never happened. The atmosphere was okay but too hot and the music was not a relaxed volume to sit and enjoy our meal. The food was mediocre and not worth waiting nearly an hour for. I wouldn't return again due to the cost and level of service we received. The place needs air conditioning, taking out one set of table and chairs so it would be more comfortably spaced and more private.
AT
Amy T
10 stars out of 5!!! Beer garden, Sunday roasts, disco tunes and a free dog roast! Am I in heaven now? WOW!
S2
Suzie 2poos
Five of us went on Mother’s Day for a roast dinner. The food was very good although two of the party reported slightly firm roast potatoes. We sat inside where the service and atmosphere were good. Haven’t been here for over 30 years and it’s still a great pub.
JT
John Turner
We arrived early for our Sunday roast booking and were told to order drinks while we waited. When finally seated, we were given a tiny walk-in table, despite being told on the phone we’d have a sofa or high table. (We choose on the phone The high table.) When confronted with the altercations , The manager was dismissive and just plain rude, saying that “was literally the only table they have. “ , outright denying what was said—insulting our intelligence despite two of us hearing the call on loudspeaker and the fact there was numerous table around us empty with no reservations, as clearly shown on my photos and Meanwhile, other guests beside us were given a “choice of seating”, yet we were ignored. Needless to say we left here rather confused and disappointed “. They had more than enough time to rectify , I will not be returning and a new front of house manager would be advised. Response to you’re message: Thank you for your response. I’d like to clarify a few points regarding our experience: Firstly, when we spoke with your manager, she stated that she handled the call and even accused us of dishonesty. Now, you (the boss) claiming to be the person who in fact took the call—offer a completely different account. This contradiction is concerning and again dishonest. Secondly, we want to be clear that at no point were we disrespectful or asked to leave as you’ve suggested. We remained patient throughout our visit, and finished the drinks that we ordered, and did not act in any way that would justify the claims made in your message. In fact, the only two customers present as clearly shown in the photo i took at the time mentioned, something was truly amiss, and they too would have logged a complaint. This further supports our account that we behaved appropriately and were not the source of any rudeness. And Additionally, our review was written as an honest expression of our experience at Blackhorse Pub. The term “childish” used to describe our feedback is both dismissive again rude and unhelpful. Our review is honest fair from a genuinely odd dining experience. I’d like to add we managed to get a table at Templebar Pub, a 2 minute walk from yours where we received prompt, professional service and were treated with the respect we expected and give. This stark contrast in our dining experiences further highlights the shortcomings in how we were handled at Blackhorse Pub. We hope you will consider these points and address the inconsistencies in your account. Thank you for your attention to this matter.
GP
Georgia Pochin
We booked a table at The Black Horse for a roast, expecting a smooth and enjoyable experience. Instead, we were left waiting to be seated despite having a reservation. When we were finally shown to our table, it was a tiny table for two—completely unsuitable for our group. When we raised our concerns, the manager couldn’t have cared less. There was no apology, no attempt to fix the situation, just a dismissive attitude that made it clear customer satisfaction wasn’t a priority. Terrible service, a complete lack of hospitality, and an overall disappointing experience. We won’t be returning.
CD
Courtney Day

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