Durham Castle · Best Bars · Curated · Updated 2026

Best Bars near Durham Castle

Discover the best bars near Durham Castle. Find inspiration for your trip with our curated list of top-rated spots, local favorites, and hidden gems.

The 10 best bars near Durham Castle

united-kingdom/durham/bar/the-shakespeare

The Shakespeare

A historic and quirky Durham pub famed for its real ales, theatrical roots, and ghostly tales in a cosy 12th-century setting.

63 Saddler St, Durham DH1 3NU
4.3 Very Good 766 reviews
united-kingdom/durham/bar/the-library

The Library

A lively pub and social hub in Durham offering quality drinks, creative vegan dishes, and a quirky, welcoming atmosphere from morning till late.

46 Saddler St, Durham DH1 3NU
4.2 Very Good 2,081 reviews
united-kingdom/durham/bar/blue-eye

Blue Eye

Durham’s stylish cocktail bar with creative drinks, lively vibes, and a welcoming atmosphere on historic Elvet Bridge.

25 Elvet Bridge, Durham DH1 3AA
4.1 Very Good 102 reviews
united-kingdom/durham/bar/osbournes

Osbournes

A vibrant, intimate bar and club in Durham known for its lively music nights, extensive gin selection, and welcoming local vibe.

21A Elvet Bridge, Durham DH1 3AA
4 Very Good 147 reviews
united-kingdom/durham/bar/revolution-durham

Revolution Durham

Dynamic cocktail bar and restaurant in Durham city centre with scenic rooftop views and vibrant nightlife.

1-4 North Rd, Durham DH1 4PW
3.9 Good 678 reviews
united-kingdom/durham/bar/tin-of-sardines-gin-bar-durham

Tin Of Sardines Gin Bar - Durham

Discover Durham’s tiniest gin bar with a colossal selection, expert service, and an intimate, unforgettable atmosphere on Elvet Bridge.

18 Elvet Bridge, Durham DH1 3AA
4.6 Excellent 352 reviews
united-kingdom/durham/bar/old-toms-gin-bar

Old Toms Gin Bar

Discover Durham’s riverside gem with over 250 gins, artisan boards, and expert Ginologists crafting unforgettable cocktails.

33 Riverwalk, Durham DH1 4SL
4.4 Very Good 485 reviews
united-kingdom/durham/bar/the-fighting-cocks

The Fighting Cocks

A lively, affordable pub in Durham’s city centre, perfect for casual drinks and socializing in a friendly, unpretentious setting.

4 South St, Durham DH1 4PP
4.1 Very Good 977 reviews
united-kingdom/durham/bar/the-boat-club-tomahawk-steakhouse

The Boat Club & Tomahawk Steakhouse

Historic riverside venue in Durham offering vibrant cocktails, Himalayan dry-aged steaks, and panoramic views of the River Wear and Elvet Bridge.

Elvet Riverside, Durham DH1 3AF
4.2 Very Good 1,281 reviews
united-kingdom/durham/bar/swan-three-cygnets

Swan & Three Cygnets

Traditional riverside pub with a no-technology policy, affordable drinks, and cosy charm beside Durham’s historic Elvet Bridge.

Elvet Bridge, Durham DH1 3AF
4.2 Very Good 1,096 reviews

More to explore near Durham Castle

Jump into the most useful discovery pages nearby, from experiences and heritage highlights to food, stays, shopping, and evening ideas.

photo
Destination guide

More about Durham Castle

Explore over 1000 years of history in this Norman castle, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and vibrant university residence in the heart of Durham.

Tell me more about Durham Castle
Mobile App
Get the app

Your all‑in‑one travel companion app

Explore expert travel guides, compare and book tours, experiences, hotels, and more—all from the palm of your hand. Download now for seamless trip planning wherever your wanderlust takes you.

Select Currency

Choose the currency you want prices to display in.