The Dun Cow: Durham’s Historic Tudor Pub
Step into Durham’s oldest pub, The Dun Cow, where Tudor charm and legendary tales blend with excellent ales in a cozy historic setting.
The Dun Cow in Durham is a charming, centuries-old pub known for its historic Tudor Revival interior and traditional ales. Dating back to the 15th century, it offers a cozy, authentic atmosphere with original wood paneling, a carved fireplace, and a snug bar. This Grade II listed building connects visitors to Durham’s rich heritage and local legends, making it a must-visit for lovers of history and classic British pubs.
A brief summary to The Durham Cow
- QCGP+6M, Durham, Durham, GB
- Duration: 0.5 to 2 hours
- Mid ranged
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Indoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
Local tips
- Try the locally brewed Castle Eden Ale, a specialty served in excellent condition.
- Visit the small snug bar for a more intimate and traditional pub experience.
- Take time to appreciate the Tudor Revival interior details, including the carved wooden fireplace and plasterwork ceiling.
- The pub can be busy during evenings; visiting earlier in the day offers a quieter atmosphere.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
Getting There
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Bus
Take the local bus services from Durham Bus Station to the city centre, with a 10-15 minute journey. Buses run frequently, and a single ticket costs around £2.50. The pub is a short walk from the bus stop, but note that evening services may be less frequent.
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Walking
From Durham city centre, The Dun Cow is accessible within a 10-minute walk along mostly flat, paved streets. The route is suitable for most mobility levels and offers a pleasant stroll through historic parts of the city.
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Taxi
Local taxis can reach The Dun Cow from anywhere in Durham in about 5-10 minutes depending on traffic. Typical fares range from £5 to £10. This option is convenient for groups or late-night visits when public transport is limited.
The Durham Cow location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Rain / Wet Weather
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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about The Durham Cow
Historic Roots and Legendary Origins
The Dun Cow is one of Durham’s oldest pubs, with parts of its structure dating back to the 15th century. Its name is steeped in local legend, linked to the story of Lindisfarne monks who, guided by a holy vision, carried the coffin of St Cuthbert to the area known as Dun Holm—now Durham. According to tradition, a milkmaid searching for her lost cow directed the monks to this site, inspiring the pub’s evocative name. This connection to medieval history and religious pilgrimage imbues the pub with a unique cultural significance.Architectural Charm and Interior Details
The building itself is a Grade II listed structure featuring Tudor Revival design elements that create a timeless atmosphere. Inside, visitors find a small front snug with a sliding door leading into the bar, which boasts a finely crafted four-sectioned Tudor Revival bar-back with mirrored panels. The Victorian panelled bar counter and a carved wooden fireplace surround add to the historic ambiance. The lounge area, an amalgamation of older rooms, features an ornate plasterwork ceiling with decorative friezes, blending historic charm with modern comforts.Ale and Atmosphere in a Traditional Setting
The Dun Cow is renowned for its excellent selection of cask ales, including locally brewed Castle Eden Ale, which it reportedly sells more of than any other pub in the northeast. The pub maintains a traditional approach to beer service, ensuring ales are served in excellent condition. The atmosphere is warm and welcoming, with friendly staff and a clientele that appreciates the authentic, old-fashioned pub experience. The intimate size of the pub fosters a cozy and sociable environment.Location and Cultural Significance
Situated close to Durham’s city centre, The Dun Cow offers a quiet retreat from the bustle of modern life. Its historic character and connection to local folklore make it a cultural landmark as well as a social hub. The building’s half-timbered exterior and interior details provide a tangible link to Durham’s past, inviting visitors to step back in time while enjoying contemporary hospitality.Preservation and Visitor Experience
As a protected building, The Dun Cow preserves many original features that contribute to its special national historic interest. The pub’s layout, fittings, and decorative elements have been carefully maintained, allowing visitors to experience an authentic Tudor-style pub environment. Whether stopping by for a single ale or spending an afternoon soaking in the ambiance, guests are treated to a blend of history, tradition, and community spirit.Local Legends and Stories
Beyond its architectural and historical appeal, The Dun Cow is wrapped in local stories, including the monks’ journey and the milkmaid’s guidance. These tales enrich the visitor experience, connecting the pub to Durham’s spiritual and cultural heritage. The pub stands as a living monument to the city’s medieval past, inviting reflection on the layers of history embedded within its walls.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Durham Band Stand
0.1 km
A peaceful riverside bandstand with one of Durham’s most iconic cathedral views, perfect for quiet moments and photography by the River Wear.
Maiden Castle Earthwork
0.7 km
Explore Durham’s ancient Iron Age promontory fort with its impressive earthworks nestled in tranquil woodland overlooking the River Wear.
Durham Town Hall
0.8 km
Victorian civic landmark hosting culture, heritage, and community in Durham's historic heart.
Market place
0.8 km
Medieval marketplace meets Victorian grandeur—Durham's beating heart of commerce, culture, and community.
Framwellgate Bridge
0.9 km
Durham’s oldest stone bridge, a medieval marvel offering iconic views of the cathedral and river, steeped in history and timeless charm.
Kathedra
1.1 km
Explore the Kathedra in Durham, a stunning gothic stone chair by the river, perfect for history lovers and photography enthusiasts alike.
Durham British Israel Fellowship
1.1 km
Discover the Durham British Israel Fellowship: A historical church offering community spirit, stunning architecture, and a glimpse into Durham's rich heritage.
Durham Viaduct
1.4 km
A majestic Victorian railway viaduct soaring over Durham’s River Wear, blending engineering excellence with stunning historic city views.
Durham
1.4 km
Explore Durham Cathedral, a Norman architectural masterpiece and spiritual sanctuary with stunning views, sacred relics, and rich medieval heritage.
Durham Obelisk
1.6 km
A hidden 90-foot sandstone tower concealed by woodland, marking Durham's forgotten astronomical heritage.
Maiden's Bower
1.8 km
Explore Maiden's Bower, a serene Bronze Age cairn nestled in Durham's Flass Vale, where ancient history meets tranquil woodland beauty.
Ludworth Tower
7.5 km
A rare 15th-century pele tower standing as a testament to medieval border fortifications
The High Level Bridge
21.5 km
A pioneering double-deck Victorian bridge uniting rail and road across the River Tyne, symbolizing Newcastle’s industrial heritage.
Tyne Bridge
21.6 km
An iconic steel arch bridge spanning the River Tyne, symbolising NewcastleGateshead’s industrial heritage and modern spirit.
Quayside
21.6 km
Quayside is a dynamic riverside district where iconic bridges meet vibrant culture, blending industrial heritage with modern art and lively waterfront life.
Unmissable attractions to see
Elvet Waterside
0.5 km
Scenic riverside charm meets historic Durham city life at Elvet Waterside, a tranquil urban retreat by the iconic Elvet Bridge.
Durham Big Sing
0.5 km
A joyful community choral event in Durham celebrating inclusive singing and vibrant local music culture.
No 59 Old Elvet
0.5 km
An intimate evening bistro on historic Old Elvet street, blending local heritage with contemporary dining in the heart of Durham.
Elvet Bridge
0.6 km
A medieval stone arch bridge over the River Wear, now a lively pedestrian walkway with cafes, restaurants and stunning views of Durham Cathedral and the city’s dramatic river gorge.
Old Durham Gardens
0.7 km
A peaceful 17th-century walled garden and orchard beside the River Wear, open 24/7 with special afternoons in the upper garden from April to September.
Department of History • Durham University
0.7 km
Explore history where Durham’s rich past meets vibrant academic excellence at the University’s historic North Bailey location.
Escape Rooms Durham
0.7 km
Immersive puzzle adventures in Durham's historic centre—from spy missions to gothic mysteries.
Durham Museum
0.7 km
Medieval heritage and local history in the heart of historic Durham, near the cathedral.
Umbrella alley
0.7 km
A vibrant canopy of colorful umbrellas brightening Durham’s Millburngate Shopping Centre with artful charm and urban whimsy.
Department of Classics and Ancient History • Durham University
0.8 km
Classical scholarship in a medieval setting: Durham's premier centre for ancient languages, philosophy, and Mediterranean studies.
Durham Market Hall
0.8 km
Victorian market hall where 40+ independent traders celebrate Durham's heritage and local character.
Dragon Park
0.8 km
Experience the beauty of Dragon Park in Durham, where nature, tranquility, and community come together in a stunning urban oasis.
Durham Castle
0.8 km
Explore over 1000 years of history in this Norman castle, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and vibrant university residence in the heart of Durham.
The House of Eden
0.8 km
Discover handmade treasures and personalised gifts in this charming boutique nestled in Durham Market Hall’s vibrant heart.
Durham Pointers
0.8 km
Your welcoming gateway to explore Durham’s rich heritage, cultural events, and local insights from the heart of Market Place.
Essential places to dine
The Townhouse Restaurant
0.3 km
A chic and intimate spot in Durham serving modern British cuisine with a stylish, welcoming atmosphere.
Little Sicily
0.4 km
Authentic Sicilian Italian restaurant in Durham offering fresh, affordable dishes in a warm, family-friendly atmosphere.
Marco Pierre White Steakhouse Bar & Grill Durham
0.4 km
Historic charm meets exquisite steakhouse dining in Durham’s unique circular room at Marco Pierre White Steakhouse Bar & Grill.
Zen
0.4 km
Experience authentic Asian fusion cuisine in a stylish Durham setting, blending traditional flavours with modern flair.
The Rabbit Hole
0.6 km
A 1920s Shanghai supper club with live jazz, Cantonese fusion cuisine, and intimate vintage elegance.
Bistro Italiano
0.6 km
Authentic Italian flavors served with warmth and charm in the heart of Durham’s historic district.
Notch Durham
0.6 km
Slow-cooked American barbecue and craft cocktails in Durham's vibrant city centre.
The Boat Club & Tomahawk Steakhouse
0.6 km
Discover exquisite steaks and crafted cocktails at The Boat Club & Tomahawk Steakhouse on Elvet Riverside - where taste meets tranquility.
Tia’s
0.7 km
Authentic Mexican and Mediterranean flavors with a dedicated vegan menu and friendly service in the heart of Durham.
19Twenty Bar & Grill
0.7 km
Modern grill and cocktail bar on Durham’s Elvet Bridge, serving gourmet burgers and steaks with scenic riverside views.
Restaurant 17
0.7 km
Boutique dining below Elvet Bridge offering world-inspired dishes in an intimate, candlelit setting with fresh local ingredients.
Zizzi - Durham
0.7 km
Modern Italian dining in the heart of Durham – wood-fired pizzas, fresh pasta, and a relaxed atmosphere just steps from the cathedral.
The Cellar Door
0.7 km
Historic riverside dining with seasonal Modern European cuisine and scenic terraces in the heart of Durham.
Tango Durham
0.7 km
Lively American-style burgers, fresh local produce, and creative cocktails in Durham’s vibrant city centre with riverside terrace dining.
Tapas Factory
0.7 km
Authentic Spanish tapas and Mediterranean flavors in Durham's vibrant city center.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
7 Day Store
0.6 km
Discover authentic Asian flavors and ingredients at Durham’s vibrant 7 Day Store, open daily for your culinary adventures.
TJ Hughes
0.6 km
Durham’s trusted discount department store offering top brands in home, fashion, and electronics at unbeatable prices.
Prince Bishops Place
0.7 km
Durham’s vibrant shopping centre blending high street brands, local boutiques, and award-winning facilities in the city’s historic heart.
Oxfam Shop
0.7 km
Discover pre-loved books, music, and more at Durham’s Oxfam Shop—where every purchase supports global poverty relief and sustainability.
Discovering Durham CIC
0.7 km
Empowering Durham’s local producers through unique crafts, gifts, and community-driven retail on historic High Street.
Circle Vintage Durham
0.7 km
Discover Durham’s largest curated vintage clothing collection in a charming historic boutique on Saddler Street.
Rohan Durham - Outdoor Clothing & Walking Gear
0.7 km
Discover Rohan Durham, your premier destination for high-quality outdoor clothing and gear, perfect for every adventurer in the beautiful English countryside.
Elvet & Bailey
0.7 km
Discover unique handmade gifts and local artisan treasures at Elvet & Bailey, Durham’s beloved boutique in Prince Bishops Shopping Centre.
The Georgian Window
0.7 km
Discover stylish ladies’ fashion, unique gifts, and elegant accessories in the heart of Durham at The Georgian Window.
Italian Clothes Room Inside Georgian Window
0.7 km
Discover elegant Italian fashion in Durham’s historic Georgian window boutique, blending timeless style with personalized service.
Waceland Durham
0.7 km
Discover handpicked vintage gems and streetwear essentials in a family-run boutique at the heart of Durham’s Saddler Street.
The Mugwump
0.7 km
Discover Durham’s iconic boutique blending vintage fashion, unique gifts, and local art in a charming historic setting.
The Boathouse
0.8 km
Discover unique clothing and accessories at The Boathouse in Durham, a charming shop showcasing local designs and a welcoming atmosphere.
BEAR BOTTOM
0.8 km
Discover unique gifts, collectibles, and local craftsmanship at Bear Bottom, Durham’s beloved indoor market shop.
People's Bookshop Durham
0.8 km
Discover Durham’s vibrant radical bookshop, a volunteer-run haven for second-hand books and community stories.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Dun Cow Durham
0.3 km
Historic Durham pub famed for traditional ales, Tudor Revival interiors, and a warm, authentic local atmosphere.
The Woodman Inn - Durham
0.4 km
A traditional Durham pub with a spacious beer garden, diverse drinks, and a welcoming atmosphere for locals and visitors alike.
The Half Moon Inn
0.6 km
Historic Tudor pub on Durham’s riverside offering award-winning ales, scenic courtyard views, and a warm local atmosphere.
Swan & Three Cygnets
0.6 km
Traditional riverside pub with a no-technology policy, affordable drinks, and cosy charm beside Durham’s historic Elvet Bridge.
Tin Of Sardines Gin Bar - Durham
0.7 km
Discover Durham’s tiniest gin bar with a colossal selection, expert service, and an intimate, unforgettable atmosphere on Elvet Bridge.
The Library
0.7 km
A lively pub and social hub in Durham offering quality drinks, creative vegan dishes, and a quirky, welcoming atmosphere from morning till late.
Osbournes
0.7 km
A vibrant, intimate bar and club in Durham known for its lively music nights, extensive gin selection, and welcoming local vibe.
The Drunken Duck
0.7 km
A welcoming and lively British pub in Durham's heart, offering quality drinks and a classic atmosphere for locals and visitors alike.
Blue Eye
0.7 km
Durham’s stylish cocktail bar with creative drinks, lively vibes, and a welcoming atmosphere on historic Elvet Bridge.
The Shakespeare
0.7 km
A historic and quirky Durham pub famed for its real ales, theatrical roots, and ghostly tales in a cosy 12th-century setting.
24 North Bailey Club
0.8 km
Durham students’ beloved late-night bar and social club, blending historic charm with lively events on the iconic North Bailey.
Champagne Bar
0.8 km
Sophisticated vintage champagnes and crafted cocktails in Durham’s vibrant Walkergate, blending chic style with welcoming warmth.
Slug & Lettuce - Durham
0.8 km
Lively cocktail bar and restaurant in Durham’s city center, perfect for social drinks, tasty meals, and vibrant events year-round.
Old Toms Gin Bar
1.0 km
Discover Durham’s riverside gem with over 250 gins, artisan boards, and expert Ginologists crafting unforgettable cocktails.
The Fighting Cocks
1.0 km
A lively, affordable pub in Durham’s city centre, perfect for casual drinks and socializing in a friendly, unpretentious setting.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Relaxing
- Tranquil
- Scenic
- Unique
- Casual
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Vintage Styles
- Rustic Designs
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Architectural Shots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Weekend Getaway
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Pet Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Friendly
