Fran ‘Loves’ Her Job, Her Kitchen & Her Diners

Fran Hartshorne is star quality. She has progressed through the business starting as Commis Chef and is now celebrating 20 years having worked her way up in the kitchen to Executive Chef at The White Horse, Brancaster Staithe, a restaurant renowned as one of Norfolk's most iconic and sought after restaurants. 

Two other major accolades have come her way this year, Fran was awarded winner of the ‘Unsung Hero’ Award by Suffolk & Norfolk Tourism Awards 2025 and she was voted Chef's Chef  2025 by the whole of ACI (Anglian Country Inns), chef teams.

Says Fran, ‘I am passionate about local provenance and seasonality of ingredients, and I love exploring what's out there especially on our doorstep. It’s pure joy meeting with suppliers, to bring the best to my kitchen and ultimately the diners at the table. I feel the luckiest Chef in Norfolk, creating my menus in a kitchen that faces out across the stunning tidal marsh and serving my menu in the conservatory restaurant that overlooks this most glorious panoramic view. I have a fabulous team of chefs, and I would say, it can’t get much better.’

Fran studied at Stamford College which culminated in a diploma in Hospitality & Catering. She enjoyed work experience at Michelin Star Morston Hall, Norfolk and then took a 2-year placement in the USA cooking in New York’s Long Island and Florida West Palm Beach, both exclusive members’ clubs where she gained amazing experience.  But she always knew that her beloved Norfolk would beckon her home.

Said Rob Williamson, ‘what can I say, Fran is a legend and a powerhouse in the business, we all respect and admire her. She is an extremely valued colleague and friend to The White Horse team, a real diamond in disguise. Congratulations on your 20year anniversary, Fran’

Together with her husband Phil they also runs Staithe Smokehouse which is situated on the premises of The White Horse.