For the second year running, a group of determined cyclists have taken on the challenge of cycling between all eight Deben Inns pubs in one day – completing an impressive 54-mile round trip through the Suffolk countryside.

The group first completed the challenge last year and enjoyed it so much that they decided to get back in the saddle and do it all over again!

Their route took them between The Butt & Oyster, The Maybush, The Fox Inn, The Coach & Horses, The Kings Head, Wilford Bridge, The Swan and The Ship Inn, collecting their Deben Inns Trail stamps along the way.

Of course, a Deben Inns cycling challenge wouldn’t be complete without a few refreshment stops – and after 54 miles, that final pint was certainly well deserved!

Could you take on the Deben Inns Eight-Pub Challenge?

We absolutely love seeing people finding different ways to visit all eight of our pubs, and we’d love to see more people take on the cycling challenge next year.

Whether you’re part of a cycling club, looking for a challenge with friends or simply fancy combining a day on the bike with some of Suffolk’s best countryside and pubs, it’s a brilliant way to experience the Deben Inns Trail.

You can collect a stamp at each Deben Inns pub as you make your way around the route – and there’s plenty of opportunity to stop for food, a drink or a quick rest along the way.

A huge well done to the guys for completing it for a second year. 🚴👏

Think you and your friends could complete all eight?

We’d love to hear from anyone thinking about giving it a go. Get in touch with us and start planning your own Deben Inns cycling challenge!

And to this year’s riders – we’ll see you again next year! 🍻

👨‍🍳 A Career in the Kitchen at Deben Inns 👨‍🍳

In today’s hospitality world, chefs have more choice than ever. So what makes somewhere stand out? It’s not just about the food you cook — it’s about the environment you work in, the people around you, and the opportunities to grow. At Deben Inns, we believe great pubs start with great people — and that includes every chef, from kitchen porter right through to head chef.

🍽️ A kitchen where you can actually cook

One of the biggest things that sets Deben Inns apart is the focus on fresh, locally sourced food.
This isn’t a “heat and serve” environment — it’s proper cooking. You’ll be working with quality ingredients, building dishes that people come back for, and being part of menus that genuinely reflect the seasons and the local area.
Even better, chefs are encouraged to bring their own ideas. Each pub has its own identity, and there’s real scope to put your own stamp on dishes and menus, rather than following a rigid, one-size-fits-all approach.

🌿 Eight pubs, all different

Deben Inns is made up of a group of individual pubs, each with its own personality, menu and style.

That means:
No two kitchens feel the same
Different styles of service and menus
Opportunities to move between sites and learn new things
Whether you prefer a busy riverside pub, a countryside setting, or something more food-led, there’s a place to fit your style.

📈 Real progression, not just a job

For chefs at any level, progression is key — and it’s something Deben Inns actively supports.
You’ll have access to training courses and development opportunities, with clear pathways from junior roles up to senior kitchen positions. Whether you’re just starting out or looking to step up, there’s a genuine opportunity to build a career, not just fill a role.

💰 Benefits that actually matter

Hospitality can be demanding, so the extras make a difference. At Deben Inns, benefits are designed to support both your work life and your life outside the kitchen.

These include:
Equal share of tips
Food and drink discounts across all sites
Bank holiday incentives
24/7 GP and wellbeing support
Discounted gym memberships
Retail and lifestyle discounts
Staff days out and team events

👥 A team that works together

Ask anyone in the group and one thing comes up again and again — the people. There’s a strong focus on team culture, with kitchens and front of house working closely together, and a management team that’s approachable and supportive. It’s a fast-paced environment, but one where you’re backed up by your team and given the tools to succeed.

🔥 For chefs who want more

Yes, it’s busy. Yes, it can be challenging. But that’s also where the rewards are. At Deben Inns, you’re not just another number in a kitchen — you’re part of a team building something people genuinely enjoy. From a quiet midweek service to a packed weekend, every shift brings something different. Whether you’re starting your career, looking to step up, or ready for a fresh challenge, there’s a place for you here. If you’re passionate about food, enjoy working with a great team, and want to be part of a company that values what you bring, Deben Inns is well worth a look.

Bank Holiday Weekend at Deben Inns

The next Bank Holiday weekend is the perfect excuse to slow things down, catch up with friends and family, and make the most of some extra time off — and at Deben Inns, we’ve got everything ready for you to do just that.

All of our pubs will be open right across the Bank Holiday weekend, serving food all day, every day, right through until 9pm. Whether you’re planning a relaxed lunch, an afternoon in the garden, or an easy-going evening meal, you’ll be able to settle in and enjoy it at your own pace.

There’s something special about a long weekend at the pub. It’s that mix of good food, a welcoming atmosphere, and the freedom to come and go as you please — no rushing, no set plans, just time well spent. From spontaneous catch-ups to planned get-togethers, our pubs are the perfect place to bring people together.

Our menus will be running as usual, packed with the dishes you know and enjoy. Expect hearty pub classics, seasonal favourites, and plenty of options whether you’re after something light or a proper meal. And with food served all day, there’s no need to watch the clock — just arrive when it suits you.

If the weather plays its part, many of our pubs have outdoor spaces and gardens that are ideal for making the most of a spring Bank Holiday. It’s the kind of setting that’s made for long, relaxed afternoons that turn into evenings without you even noticing.

Whether you’re a regular visitor or planning to join us for the first time, you can expect the same warm welcome across all Deben Inns pubs throughout the weekend.

So if you’re wondering where to spend your Bank Holiday, you know where to find us — open all weekend, food served all day until 9pm, and ready to welcome you.