Best Pubs & Clubs in Durham: Everything That You Need to Know

Top 15 Pubs & Clubs in Durham

Durham City is smaller than other cities in the UK, which is why most of the pubs and clubs in Durham are within walking distance. So, if you are planning to explore the best clubs and pubs, here is the list of the top 15 for you.

1. Duke of Wellington

The Duke of Wellington pub is one of Durham’s most popular bars near Notting Hill Gate and Ladbroke Grove Tube Stations, the closest parts of London. Among the 50+ Durham pubs, the Duke consists of a beautiful lounge filled with cozy seating and stunning dining rooms. Moreover, it is a popular roadside hostelry known for its relaxing environment, making it a great spot for diners and drinkers.

Cuisine: Brew Pub, British

Feature: Serves Alcohol, Table Service, Wheelchair Accessible, Free Wi-Fi, Free Off-street Parking

Meal Type: Lunch, Dinner, Brunch, Late Night

Special Diet: Vegetarian Friendly, Vegan Options, Gluten Free Options

Address: Darlington Road, Durham DH1 3QN England

2. The Water House

There are so many pubs in Durham city centre, and the Water House is one of the most vibrant, and relaxing for people. It offers a community-focused atmosphere with a wide selection of drinks, live entertainment, and features like shuffleboard, creating a place for people to unwind, socialize, and make beautiful memories. Among the amazing Durham city pubs, the Water House is better known for quick service, food, and drinks.

Cuisine: Bar, British, Pub

Feature: Serves Alcohol, Free Wi-Fi, Family Style, Table Service

Meal Type: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner, Brunch, Late Night, Drinks

Special Diet: Vegetarian Friendly, Vegan Options, Gluten Free Options

Address: 67-71 Princess Street, Manchester M2 4EG England

3. The Half Moon Inn

Many pubs in Durham city centre have been running for decades, and the Half Moon Inn is one of the traditional and historical ones. It offers a great atmosphere, featuring a riverside courtyard and a large beer garden, serving well-kept ales and craft beers. Moreover, the Half Moon is known for quality craft beers and also offers a selection of gins, cocktails, and other spirits.

Cuisine: Bar, British, Pub

Feature: Outdoor Seating, Reservations, Serves Alcohol

Meal Type: Lunch, Dinner, Drinks

Special Diet: Vegetarian Friendly, Vegan Options, Gluten Free Options

Address: Frog Lane, Clyst St Mary EX5 1BR England

4. The Station House

In the year of 2015, the Station House was first opened. In the list of top pubs in Durham, it is located very close to the train and bus stations, which creates a welcoming atmosphere for locals, travelers, students, and tourists alike. Particularly, the Station House is a selective pub for its real ales and ciders, catering to the tastes of beer and cider enthusiasts.

Cuisine: No Hot Food Serves

Feature: Micro-pub, Real Ales, Ciders, Gluten-Free Options

Meal Type: Drinks and Light Snacks

Special Diet: Vegan, Gluten-free

Address: Station House, North Rd, Durham DH1 4SE, United Kingdom

5. The Woodman Inn

If you want a family and friendly atmosphere then the Woodman Inn is the best pub in Durham. It was built in 1664, retains many of its original 16th-century features like wood beams, low ceilings, and fireplaces, and offers a modern, welcoming atmosphere for customers. The pub also hosts various events and activities, including quiz nights and live music performances.

Cuisine: Classic pub food

Feature: Beer Garden, Karaoke, Live Music, Bar Games, Pool Table

Meal Type: Food at Bar, Dine-in, Outdoor Seating

Special Diet: Breakfast, Seasonal Food, Sunday Roast with Tender Meats

Address: 23 Gilesgate, Durham DH1 1QW England

6. The Library Durham

In our list of Durham pubs, the Library Durham is another pub that is located in the city center, on the road of the cathedral, making it accessible for both locals and visitors. Moreover, the Library’s popularity is from its lively sports bar atmosphere, delicious food, drink options, and relaxed daytime and late-night vibes so that you can have a wonderful nightlife in the city.

Cuisine: Bar, British, Pub

Feature: Outdoor Seating, Serves Alcohol, Reservations, Television

Meal Type: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner, Brunch, Late Night, Drinks

Special Diet: Vegetarian Friendly, Vegan Options, Gluten Free Options

Address: 46 Saddler Street, Durham DH1 3 England

7. The Head of Steam Durham

People who want to experience an extensive beer, wine, and spirits range, quality live music, events, and various types of exciting performances must go to the Head of Steam Durham. Moreover, its extensive beer selection, real ales, vibrant atmosphere, and menu make it different, so people love to come here and try different food options like gourmet burgers, skinny fries, stone-baked pizzas, and more.

Cuisine: Brew Pub, Bar, British, Pub

Feature: Highchairs Available, Outdoor Seating, Serves Alcohol

Meal Type: Lunch, Dinner, Brunch, Drinks

Special Diet: Vegetarian Friendly, Vegan Options, Gluten Free Options

Address: 3 Reform Place, North Road, Durham DH1 4RZ England

8. The Market Tavern Durham

Many visitors and locals want a traditional pub experience when they visit Durham city and for that, the Market Tavern Durham is a great place. Most of its menu covers British pub food and drinks which includes dishes like hand-battered fish and chips, succulent burgers, pie, and mash. This is also a dog-friendly pub where you can get your pet and enjoy your food and drinks.

Cuisine: Bar, British, Pub

Feature: Outdoor Seating, Wheelchair Accessible, Wine and Beer, Family Style

Meal Type: Lunch, Dinner, Brunch, Drinks

Special Diet: Vegetarian Friendly, Vegan Options, Gluten Free Options

Address: 27 Market Place, Durham DH1 3NJ England

9. The Three Bridges Durham

In Durham City, the Three Bridges is the newest bar which offers a welcoming and relaxed atmosphere where people can spend time with their friends and loved ones. Moreover, Three Bridges offers a wide range of food and drinks at affordable prices. It’s most selective drinks are hand pulled ales with Allendale Penine Pale, Maxim Swedish Blonde, and Lilley’s Cider.

Cuisine: American, Bar, British, Pub

Feature: Live Music, Table Service, Sports Bars, Free Wi-Fi

Meal Type: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner, Brunch, Late Night, Drinks

Special Diet: Vegetarian Friendly, Vegan Options, Gluten Free Options

Address: 80-83 North Road, Durham DH1 4SQ England

10. The Newton Grange

The Newton Grange welcomes families, groups of friends, couples, and everyone, so if you want to join it with your loved ones, it is open for you. This pub provides an outdoor play area for all ages of people. You can also book your table in advance for different food, cocktails, lunch, breakfast, and special dishes like hand-stretched pizza and delicious burgers.

Cuisine: Bar, British, Pub

Feature: Outdoor Seating, Serves Alcohol, Full Bar, Reservations

Meal Type: Lunch, Dinner, Brunch, Late Night, Drinks

Special Diet: Vegetarian Friendly, Vegan Options, Gluten Free Options

Address: Brasside, Brasside, Durham DH1 5SA England

11. Babylon Hanging Garden Bar & Club

Among the bestnightclubs in Durham, Babylon Hanging Garden is the newest sports bar & club which is the perfect destination for watching sports and sipping on cocktails along with your family and friends. It is also famous for its event venue, which offers a unique experience with large screens, a strong mixology program, and a lively club atmosphere, that is all inspired by the ancient Hanging Gardens of Babylon. 

Cuisine: Pub, Cocktail Bar, Sports Bar

Feature: Sports Bars, Free Wi-Fi, Outdoor Seating, Serves Alcohol

Meal Type: Lunch, Dinner, Brunch, Drinks, Beer, Cocktails, Full Bar, Wine

Special Diet: Vegetarian Friendly, Vegan Options, Gluten Free Options

Address: 13-14 North Road, Durham, DH1 4SQ

12. Klute

Klute is one of the well-known club in Durham which is affordable and a favorite of students across the city. With a large garden area, here you will find three bars and VIP lounge areas where you can have fun with your friends. This club is nearest from many student accommodation in Durham therefore, it is favorite for both locals and students.

Cuisine: All Types of Drinks & General Food

Feature: Dancing, Alcohol, Beer, Cocktails, Food, Hard liquor, Wine

Meal Type: Drinks, Beer, Cocktails, Full Bar

Special Diet: Food and drinks

Address: Elvet Waterside, Durham DH1 3BW England

13. The Boat Club & Tomahawk Steakhouse

If you are in this city to visit and enjoy nightlife then the bestthings to do in Durham is experience the Boat Club & Tomahawk Steakhouse on the ground and first floor. This club is located near the riverside of the Wear, a unique location offering panoramic views, delicious food, and a lively atmosphere. Among all the Durham clubs, the Boat nightclub is also known for its Himalayan dry-aged steaks.

Cuisine: Steakhouse, Bar, British, Pub, Gastropub

Feature: Dog Friendly, Family Style, Gift Cards Available, Live Music, Reservations, Waterfront, Serves Alcohol

Meal Type: Lunch, Dinner, Brunch, After-hours, Drinks

Special Diet: Vegetarian Friendly, Vegan Options, Gluten Free Options

Address: Elvet Riverside, Durham DH1 3AF England

14. Jimmy Allens

Jimmy Allens is located in the vaulted cellars under the Elvet Bridge and one of the cheap and cheerful nightclubs in Durham which gives you free entry. One of the interesting thing about Jimmy Allens is that it’s housed in a building with a history as a prison, including the legend of a piper named Jimmy Allen who died there.

Cuisine: Beverages and drinks

Feature: Affordable, Good for Groups, Bar, Nightclub, Pub

Meal Type: Food and drinks

Special Diet: Vegetarian Friendly, Vegan Options, Gluten Free Options

Address: 19 Elvet Bridge, Durham DH1 3AA England

15. Loft Bar

There is only one underground clubs in Durham, which is Loft, located in the Northern Quarter of the city. Students and locals like this club the most because of the events and themed nights such as DNB, Jungle nights, and House Party nights with only £1 for entry and £1.50 for drinks. It provides an amazing lighting and sound system in Durham and hosts many student events, and themed parties so you can have a wonderful nightlife in Durham city.

Cuisine: Indian and International Snacks and Light Meals

Feature: Rooftop Setting, Bar Snacks and Light Meals, Modern and Stylish Ambiance

Meal Type: Appetizers, Main courses, Desserts

Special Diet: Vegetarian Friendly, Vegan Options, Gluten Free Options

Address: 15-17, North Rd, Durham DH1 4SH, United Kingdom

Why Durham Is a Great Place for Pub Lovers?

Due to the diverse selection of pubs, from traditional to trending cocktail bars, all the pubs and clubs in Durham provides an exceptional nightlife for locals, students, visitors, and travelers. Additionally, many pubs in this city offers a cozy atmosphere which is perfect for spending a lazy afternoon and chatting over drinks at night with your friends.

Best Areas for Nightlife in Durham

For a vibrant nightlife in Durham city center, the areas around Elvet Bridge and the northern quarter are the best areas where you can find many popular clubs and pubs like Klute, Osbournes, and Loft. Some of the other areas for nightlife are mentioned below.

1. Boxcar Bar + Arcade

2. Motorco Music Hall

3. Arcana Bar and Lounge

4. Old Tom's Gin Bar

5. The Dun Cow

6. The Velvet Hippo Bar & Lounge

7. Old Cinema Launderette

8. Shakespeare Tavern

9. Luna Nightclub

10. West End Wine Bar of Durham

Conclusion

To conclude, we have discussed popular clubs and pubs in Durham. We have also provided you with some essential details of cuisine, features, meal types, and special diets so that you can identify your choice and visit the place based on your interest. In the above information, you can also find the location of each pub and club that will help you navigate in Durham city and visit the best location. Apart from this, if you are living in student accommodation in UK, in Durham, then you must experience cheap locations, offering the best nightlife with a great experience.

FAQs

1. Is Durham Good for a Night Out?

Yes, Durham is generally considered a good place for a night out, particularly for students, providing a vibrant nightlife scene with numerous pubs, bars, and clubs, and even alternative options like live music venues and live performances.

2. Where to Go for Drinking in Durham?

Durham's most award-winning craft cocktail bars are mentioned below:

The Half Moon Inn

Old Tom's Gin Bar

The Holy GrAle

The Station House

33 Durham

The Library

3. Where Can I Find Live Music and Entertainment in Pubs Durham?

Loft, Klute, The Library, and Osbournes are some of the best places that offer DJs, live bands, and cocktails.

4. Where Can I Find the Best Pubs in Durham City Centre?

In Durham city centre, Durham Brewery, Half Moon Inn, The Dun Cow, The Magic Corner, 33 Durham, Tin of Sardines, and The Station House are some of the best pubs where you can have the perfect time with your loved ones.

5. Which Is the Best Pub in Durham for Food?

The following are the best pubs in Durham where you can find good food: The Three Bridges Durham, The Avenue, The Ship Gateshead, Havelock Arms, Cross Keys, and Prior.