Since the 1850s, the Alma Inn and Dining Rooms have been serving ale to residents, sailors, soldiers and farmers.

The historic inn now offers six rooms and one suite, and a delicious food menu seven days a week.

Situated just a stone’s throw from the quay in King’s Head Street, the dining rooms also feature a cosy beer garden and a new sister-restaurant next door, called Lambard’s Salt House.

After stepping into the warm glow of the room, visitors are greeted by the bar and a large wall of drinks on offer.

Historic - The Inn enjoys over a century of history to its name and an inviting atmosphere Historic - The Inn enjoys over a century of history to its name and an inviting atmosphere (Image: Newsquest) Specials and desserts of the day are neatly written on a chalk board in the corner, with the inn offering locally caught fish which varies from day to day.

On my visit, there was a choice of haddock or nuss as the day’s battered fish, with specials including Harwich whole crab, chips and salad, venison stew and bread, skate wing, seabeet butter, salad and new potatoes, and squash curry and rice.

Take a seat in the plush booth by the window or at one of the comfortable and well-aged tables and chairs while taking in the panelled walls and historic bar, washed in the warm glow of the lights.

Local - The Inn is a staple in the town and celebrates local culture Local - The Inn is a staple in the town and celebrates local culture (Image: Newsquest) After ordering the Alma sausages with mash, greens and gravy, easy listening music meandered through the room encouraging relaxation and conversation.

Guests enjoyed the warmth and historic atmosphere of the dining room, with many getting up to check the specials board.

The waiters brought out each dish with a smile, and the grey weather of the day encouraged many hot meals.

Alma’s sausages have their very own spice mix which is given to the local butcher before being returned in the sausages and certainly bursts on the tastebuds.

Delicious - The sausages hold Alma's own spice mix, with flavourful mash and fresh greens Delicious - The sausages hold Alma's own spice mix, with flavourful mash and fresh greens (Image: Newsquest) The mash potato was heartening and flavourful, perfectly blended with mustard and offering a light cushion for the sausages on the plate.

Tenderstem broccoli and garden peas were fresh and vibrant, while the sausages were deliciously firm and yet soft on the inside, full and rich in flavour.

The Alma Inn and Dining Rooms offer a homely and comfortable dining experience, steeped in history and local culture.

Anyone looking to enjoy some fresh caught fish, or hearty English meals will not be disappointed.