10 of the best pubs are in County Durham according to this new guide

The stats don’t lie — 10 of the top 500 pubs in the country are right here in Durham

3 hours ago

Turns out Durham isn’t just famous for its cathedral and cobbled streets – it’s also a heavyweight in the pub game, boasting 10 of the best in the entire country. The Telegraph has released its list of the top 500 pubs in England — and 10 of them are in County Durham, including three in the DH1 area. Here’s a look at the featured pubs and why they made the cut, according to The Telegraph’s pub expert Will Hawkes.

The Grey Horse — ‘best in county’

Via Google Maps

This historic and famously welcoming pub brews its own award-winning beers on-site with Consett Ale Works. A favourite with locals and cyclists, it offers cosy rooms, live music, a beer garden, and frequent Thursday night street food. Pets are welcome, and CAMRA loves it — with good reason.

The Britannia Inn

Via Google Maps

This historic ale-house in Darlington makes the list for serving “perhaps the best beer in town.” Serving traditional north-eastern ales, the pub is close to the town centre and is celebrated for its atmosphere as “an oasis of calm.”

The Victoria Inn

Via Google Maps

This is one of the three pubs in DH1. Located on Hallgarth Street, The Victoria Inn makes The Telegraph’s list for its great beers, family-friendly atmosphere, and historic vibe. Plus, there are pet-friendly spaces and, of course, the option for an overnight stay.

Colpitts Hotel

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Via Google Maps

Located close to Durham city centre, the Colpitts Hotel is a historic pub run by Sam Smiths Brewery. It features traditional décor with bench seating, small round tables, and atmospheric lighting. Like The Swan, the pub enforces a no mobile phone policy to encourage conversation, and has a relaxed atmosphere. Plus, we can confirm that they have a great pub quiz too!

Ye Olde Elm Tree

Via Google Maps

Another lively and historic pub near the city centre, Crossgate’s Ye Olde Elm Tree is a prime spot for student meet-ups, post-society pints, or just a relaxed evening. It offers great beers, live music, and a welcoming atmosphere. And it has a lovely, spacious beer garden.

The Pot & Glass

Via Google Maps

Located in Stockton-on-Tees, this village pub earns its spot for its beer garden and history. As well as offering great beers, The Pot & Glass also serves Thai food. And if anyone fancies trekking all the way there, the menu looks absolutely banging to be fair.

The Sun Inn

Via Google Maps

Another entry in Stockton-on-Tees, this lively pub is known for its quirky way of serving Bass (“banked” – foam first, then topped up). The Sun Inn is a great spot for anyone curious about local beer traditions. Expect a relaxed vibe, live music, a beer garden, and a mix of regulars.

Perhaps we need to do a Stockton-on-Tees bar crawl.

The Frog & Ferret

Via Google Maps

Odd name, serious vibes. This pub is a little out of the way, located on the outskirts of Spennymoor. The Frog & Ferret is a friendly place, known for its great cask ales and regular live music. It’s said that Saturdays are a guaranteed good time, with extra live music and acts often on Thursdays and Sundays too. And it has a beer garden if the sun ever decides to show up.

The Butchers Arms

Via Google Maps

A laid-back pub in Chester-le-Street, just off the walk between the station and the cricket ground, The Butchers Arms is perfect for a beer garden pint. This pub is known for its good beer, a solid pub football team, and regular events that keep things lively. Plus, there’s often live music on.

Chester-le-Street is well worth visiting if you like going to charity shops (there are loads!), so this could be a cute post-shopping pitstop.

The Three Horseshoes

Via Google Maps

Located in Leamside, about four miles out of town, this semi-rural spot is part restaurant, part traditional pub. Alongside great beers, a beer garden, and overnight stays, The Three Horseshoes offers a wide range of affordable food, including traditional Sunday lunches and a cute afternoon tea.

After reading this extensive list and hearing why each pub made the cut, one question still remains: where on earth is The Bishop’s Mill??

May Thomson | Guides