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Unsurprisingly for a county with such an extensive coastline, Norfolk produces a large quantity of seafood and shellfish every year, much of which makes its way to the top restaurants in London or even further afield.

The clean waters around the Norfolk coast, especially in the north of the county make it an ideal location for fishing for shellfish such as lobsters, crab and mussels. Crab was historically important in towns like Cromer. In the past crab were only caught in the summer months, but they are now fished year round. The industry has declined from its peak and there are now only around a dozen boats laying crab pots off the Cromer coast. The crabs that are found in this area are of exceptional quality and have a large proportion of white meat so are very much in demand. The best way of buying crab is direct from the fisherman after they land their catch on the quayside, so search for fishermen in the Norfolk business directory and find out how to go about getting yourself a delicious dinner.

Lobster is equally important to the Norfolk economy, so much so that there is an annual Lobster Festival held in the towns of Sheringham and Cromer to celebrate the fish and its importance locally. Pubs and restaurants along the coast pride themselves on the availability of good quality local shellfish, and you won’t have to look far to find somewhere serving up tasty lobster, crab sandwiches or mussels and chips. By choosing to eat locally caught and cooked produce you are supporting not only local jobs but a local way of life that has been going for centuries.

Mussels and oysters are also produced in Norfolk, especially in the area of Brancaster Staithe Harbour. Mussels from this area are well known in foodie circles due to their quality. Some are farmed and some are wild, but all conform to the strictest limits of water quality and are deliciously tasty. Norfolk mussels are said to be in season when there is an R in the month, although this can vary slightly according to the temperature of the sea. Most small producers are happy to sell to individuals as well as to wholesalers. To track one down close to you, look for their listing in a Norfolk business directory and give them a call. Mussels are also often found on the menus of some of the smartest eating places in the county, but if you want to prepare them yourself the simplest way is to steam them with garlic and serve with a simple white wine sauce and lots of chunks of bread for dipping.