Our story
300 years in the making
Ffolkes has proudly stood in Hillington, Norfolk, for over 300 years, blending historic charm with modern flair. Originally built in the 18th century as a coaching inn, it was part of a network of vital resting points that formed the backbone of Europe’s inland transport system. Before the arrival of the railway, coaching inns provided travellers and their horses with essential rest, refreshment, and shelter during long journeys. Ffolkes’ carstone walls and Georgian brickwork reflect its origins as a key stop for those journeying across the region.
The Ffolkes family acquired the inn in the 18th century, weaving their history into the building. Martin Ffolkes, a notable ancestor, served as attorney general to Queen Catherine, widow of Charles II. By 1909, the coaching inn had transitioned into a hotel known for its warm hospitality and lively celebrations. In 2016, Iain and Clair Wilson reimagined Ffolkes, transforming it into a vibrant destination while honouring its historic roots. Bold design, playful touches, and fresh style breathe new life into the old coaching inn. Ffolkes isn’t just a place to stay; it’s where history, character, and creativity collide to create an experience like no other.
Ffolkes today
A place to feast, stay, and spa
At Ffolkes, we’ve taken our roots and grown something bold, colourful, and exciting. Every detail has been designed to bring joy, from our funky new spa on the way to street food feasts, quirky rooms, and fun-filled activities. We’re not your average pub. And that’s just how we like it.
Ffolkespa
We always knew Ffolkes was made for more. Since opening, we’ve revamped our rooms, reimagined FEAST, and thrown in some madness with Container Golf. Now, we’re going all in with FFOLKESPA.
Opening September 2025, this is wellness done the Ffolkes way. Think neon lights, bold colours, and 12 epic thermal experiences, from a giant hot tub and a plunge pool to our one-of-a-kind Global Sauna. It’s colourful, it’s social, it’s everything you didn’t know a spa could be.
16 of our rooms include spa access, so you can head straight from your room to the spa without missing a beat. And if you’re staying in one of our Coaching Rooms, you’ll have the option to add FFOLKESPA’s thermal experience to your stay. You’re going to love it. Trust us.
Feast
Food at Ffolkes is an experience to enjoy. Start your day with our Unlimited Brunch Feast, where you can pile your plate high with freshly made pancakes, eggs, and omelettes or help yourself to a selection of hot and cold dishes. By evening, the flavours keep coming with our rotating street food traders, bringing something new to the table every night. Tuck into Asian-inspired flavours from Oishii Street Kitchen one night, then spice things up with bold Indian dishes from Ruchi the next. With a different vendor each evening, no two nights (or bites) are the same.
- FEAST, STAY, SPA
- FEAST, STAY, SPA
- FEAST, STAY, SPA
- FEAST, STAY, SPA
- FEAST, STAY, SPA
- FEAST, STAY, SPA
Stay
Our 22 colourful rooms are bursting with personality, offering a stay far from ordinary. Every space is designed to make your stay memorable, from a Courtyard Room featuring a playful outdoor bath and dartboard to a Spa Cabin complete with a hot tub and sauna. Every stay includes our Unlimited Brunch FEAST, served until late daily. From September 2025, 16 of our rooms will include access to FFOLKESPA’s thermal experience.
Staying in a Coaching Room? You’ll have the option to add spa access to your stay.
GOLF
Container Golf
This 9-hole mini golf course is built inside bright, graffiti-covered shipping containers. With features like loop-the-loops, mazes and a golf ball vortex, Container Golf is a fun extra for anyone looking for a bit of friendly competition.
