The Norseman

The Norseman is situated on Cranwell Road within a purpose built shopping/leisure development. It was originally part of the Viking Hotel complex which was constructed circa 1983 on the site of Driffield's former Majestic Cinema. The cinema (open since 1939) was sadly demolished to make way for the Viking Centre and in fact the complex is now largely altered with the Hotel having ceased to trade and a gymnasium replacing it. This however has been good news for the Norseman which now has annexed to it a nightclub known as Mavericks which is open on Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays.

Many locals rue the disappearance of the cinema which had stood on the site for many years. However the Norseman bar which partly replaced it has become one of Driffield's busiest and liveliest pubs with a predominantly younger clientele.

Andrew Watkins has been the landlord for the last 5 years. Driffield born Mr Watkins has a simple philosophy when it comes to running a successful pub.

"Although the range of drinks available and the general appearance of the establishment are very important factors of any licensed premises they are in themselves not sufficient to guarantee an enjoyable atmosphere. The term 'pub' is of course derived from the word public and in my opinion it is the public itself which is the most crucial factor in determining the success or failure of the establishment."

Popular with his customers Mr Watkins has maintained the pub's tradition of providing the townsfolk with a friendly and relaxed atmosphere within which to drink and enjoy the many facilities which the pub has to offer.