The Dun Cow Durham: Historic Pub with Traditional Charm and Excellent Ales
Historic Durham pub famed for traditional ales, Tudor Revival interiors, and a warm, authentic local atmosphere.
Nestled on Old Elvet in Durham, The Dun Cow is a historic pub renowned for its traditional character, excellent cask ales, and welcoming atmosphere. This Grade II listed building dates back to the 15th century and features period interiors including Tudor Revival bar fittings. Visitors enjoy a cozy setting with a rich heritage, complemented by a selection of well-kept ales and a friendly local vibe.
A brief summary to Dun Cow Durham
- 37 Old Elvet, Durham, DH1 3HN, GB
- +441913869219
- Duration: 1 to 3 hours
- Mid ranged
-
Indoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
- Monday 3 pm-11:15 pm
- Tuesday 3 pm-11:15 pm
- Wednesday 3 pm-11:15 pm
- Thursday 3 pm-11:15 pm
- Friday 12 pm-11:15 pm
- Saturday 11 am-11:15 pm
- Sunday 12 pm-11:15 pm
Local tips
- Try the Castle Eden Ale, the pub’s specialty and a celebrated local brew.
- Visit on Friday evenings for the free buffet of cold bar snacks.
- Explore the historic Tudor Revival bar fittings and period woodwork inside.
- Enjoy the cozy snug area for a more intimate pub experience.
- Combine your visit with nearby Durham landmarks like the Cathedral and Castle.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
Dun Cow Durham 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 Dun Cow Durham
A Storied Heritage Rooted in Durham's History
The Dun Cow Durham stands as one of the city’s oldest pubs, with parts of the building tracing back to the 15th century. Its name recalls a local legend involving Lindisfarne monks and a milkmaid searching for her lost cow, symbolizing the deep historical ties to the region. The pub’s Grade II listed status highlights its architectural and cultural significance, preserving features that connect visitors to centuries of local tradition.Architectural Character and Interior Ambience
The pub’s interior boasts rich period details, including a Tudor Revival four-sectioned bar back with mirrored panels, a Victorian panelled bar counter, and a carved wood fireplace surround. Full-height wall panelling and a match-boarded ceiling add to the authentic atmosphere. A small snug at the front and a larger lounge at the rear create intimate spaces for patrons to relax. The blend of historic fittings with modern touches offers a warm and inviting environment.Ale Selection and Local Brewing Heritage
The Dun Cow is celebrated for its excellent cask ales, particularly Castle Eden Ale, which it sells in the highest volume across the North East. The pub typically offers a changing guest beer alongside regular selections, all maintained in excellent condition. This dedication to quality brewing attracts both locals and visitors eager to experience authentic North East ale culture.Welcoming Atmosphere and Community Spirit
Known for its friendly staff and local clientele, The Dun Cow provides a genuine North East pub experience. The atmosphere is cozy and unpretentious, making it a favored spot for both casual drinkers and ale enthusiasts. Occasional live events and a vibrant social scene enhance its role as a community hub.Location and Surroundings
Situated on Old Elvet, a lively street filled with pubs, bars, and restaurants, The Dun Cow benefits from a central location within Durham’s historic core. It is close to landmarks such as Durham Cathedral and Durham Castle, making it an ideal stop for visitors exploring the city’s heritage. The pub’s traditional charm contrasts with the bustling surroundings, offering a peaceful retreat.Dining and Service Highlights
While primarily a pub, The Dun Cow offers bar snacks and occasional buffets, with a focus on quality and generous portions. The service is generally friendly and attentive, contributing to the overall positive experience. The venue’s mix of historic ambiance, quality ales, and welcoming service makes it a must-visit for those seeking an authentic taste of Durham’s pub culture.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Durham Band Stand
0.4 km
A peaceful riverside bandstand with one of Durham’s most iconic cathedral views, perfect for quiet moments and photography by the River Wear.
Durham Town Hall
0.5 km
Victorian civic landmark hosting culture, heritage, and community in Durham's historic heart.
Market place
0.5 km
Medieval marketplace meets Victorian grandeur—Durham's beating heart of commerce, culture, and community.
Framwellgate Bridge
0.6 km
Durham’s oldest stone bridge, a medieval marvel offering iconic views of the cathedral and river, steeped in history and timeless charm.
Kathedra
0.8 km
Explore the Kathedra in Durham, a stunning gothic stone chair by the river, perfect for history lovers and photography enthusiasts alike.
Maiden Castle Earthwork
0.8 km
Explore Durham’s ancient Iron Age promontory fort with its impressive earthworks nestled in tranquil woodland overlooking the River Wear.
Durham British Israel Fellowship
0.8 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
1.0 km
A majestic Victorian railway viaduct soaring over Durham’s River Wear, blending engineering excellence with stunning historic city views.
Durham
1.0 km
Explore Durham Cathedral, a Norman architectural masterpiece and spiritual sanctuary with stunning views, sacred relics, and rich medieval heritage.
Durham Obelisk
1.3 km
A hidden 90-foot sandstone tower concealed by woodland, marking Durham's forgotten astronomical heritage.
Maiden's Bower
1.5 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
7.8 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
No 59 Old Elvet
0.2 km
An intimate evening bistro on historic Old Elvet street, blending local heritage with contemporary dining in the heart of Durham.
Elvet Waterside
0.2 km
Scenic riverside charm meets historic Durham city life at Elvet Waterside, a tranquil urban retreat by the iconic Elvet Bridge.
Elvet Bridge
0.3 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.
The Durham Cow
0.3 km
Step into Durham’s oldest pub, The Dun Cow, where Tudor charm and legendary tales blend with excellent ales in a cozy historic setting.
Department of History • Durham University
0.4 km
Explore history where Durham’s rich past meets vibrant academic excellence at the University’s historic North Bailey location.
Escape Rooms Durham
0.4 km
Immersive puzzle adventures in Durham's historic centre—from spy missions to gothic mysteries.
Durham Museum
0.4 km
Medieval heritage and local history in the heart of historic Durham, near the cathedral.
Department of Classics and Ancient History • Durham University
0.4 km
Classical scholarship in a medieval setting: Durham's premier centre for ancient languages, philosophy, and Mediterranean studies.
Umbrella alley
0.4 km
A vibrant canopy of colorful umbrellas brightening Durham’s Millburngate Shopping Centre with artful charm and urban whimsy.
Durham Castle
0.5 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.
World Heritage Site Visitor Centre
0.5 km
Free gateway to understanding Durham's UNESCO World Heritage Site and medieval treasures
Palace Green
0.5 km
Historic green heart of Durham, framed by Norman cathedral and castle, blending medieval power with academic heritage.
Museum of Archaeology • Durham University
0.5 km
Explore northeast England’s ancient past in a historic university library at the heart of Durham’s UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Durham Market Hall
0.5 km
Victorian market hall where 40+ independent traders celebrate Durham's heritage and local character.
Palace Green Library
0.5 km
Explore Durham’s historic Palace Green Library, a treasure trove of rare books, exhibitions, and heritage in the heart of a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Essential places to dine
The Townhouse Restaurant
0.0 km
A chic and intimate spot in Durham serving modern British cuisine with a stylish, welcoming atmosphere.
Marco Pierre White Steakhouse Bar & Grill Durham
0.1 km
Historic charm meets exquisite steakhouse dining in Durham’s unique circular room at Marco Pierre White Steakhouse Bar & Grill.
Zen
0.1 km
Experience authentic Asian fusion cuisine in a stylish Durham setting, blending traditional flavours with modern flair.
Notch Durham
0.3 km
Slow-cooked American barbecue and craft cocktails in Durham's vibrant city centre.
The Boat Club & Tomahawk Steakhouse
0.3 km
Discover exquisite steaks and crafted cocktails at The Boat Club & Tomahawk Steakhouse on Elvet Riverside - where taste meets tranquility.
The Rabbit Hole
0.3 km
A 1920s Shanghai supper club with live jazz, Cantonese fusion cuisine, and intimate vintage elegance.
19Twenty Bar & Grill
0.4 km
Modern grill and cocktail bar on Durham’s Elvet Bridge, serving gourmet burgers and steaks with scenic riverside views.
Zizzi - Durham
0.4 km
Modern Italian dining in the heart of Durham – wood-fired pizzas, fresh pasta, and a relaxed atmosphere just steps from the cathedral.
Restaurant 17
0.4 km
Boutique dining below Elvet Bridge offering world-inspired dishes in an intimate, candlelit setting with fresh local ingredients.
Lebaneat
0.4 km
Experience authentic Lebanese flavors with generous portions and diverse dietary options in the heart of historic Durham.
The Cellar Door
0.4 km
Historic riverside dining with seasonal Modern European cuisine and scenic terraces in the heart of Durham.
Tango Durham
0.4 km
Lively American-style burgers, fresh local produce, and creative cocktails in Durham’s vibrant city centre with riverside terrace dining.
Flat White Kitchen
0.4 km
Experience Durham’s finest coffee and brunch in a cozy 17th-century townhouse with a modern rustic vibe and welcoming atmosphere.
Fat Hippo Durham
0.4 km
Savor bold, inventive burgers in a quirky multi-level venue on historic Saddler Street, Durham’s heart of casual dining.
Tapas Factory
0.4 km
Authentic Spanish tapas and Mediterranean flavors in Durham's vibrant city center.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
7 Day Store
0.2 km
Discover authentic Asian flavors and ingredients at Durham’s vibrant 7 Day Store, open daily for your culinary adventures.
TJ Hughes
0.4 km
Durham’s trusted discount department store offering top brands in home, fashion, and electronics at unbeatable prices.
Oxfam Shop
0.4 km
Discover pre-loved books, music, and more at Durham’s Oxfam Shop—where every purchase supports global poverty relief and sustainability.
Prince Bishops Place
0.4 km
Durham’s vibrant shopping centre blending high street brands, local boutiques, and award-winning facilities in the city’s historic heart.
Circle Vintage Durham
0.4 km
Discover Durham’s largest curated vintage clothing collection in a charming historic boutique on Saddler Street.
The Georgian Window
0.4 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
0.4 km
Discover elegant Italian fashion in Durham’s historic Georgian window boutique, blending timeless style with personalized service.
Discovering Durham CIC
0.4 km
Empowering Durham’s local producers through unique crafts, gifts, and community-driven retail on historic High Street.
Rohan Durham - Outdoor Clothing & Walking Gear
0.4 km
Discover Rohan Durham, your premier destination for high-quality outdoor clothing and gear, perfect for every adventurer in the beautiful English countryside.
The Mugwump
0.4 km
Discover Durham’s iconic boutique blending vintage fashion, unique gifts, and local art in a charming historic setting.
Waceland Durham
0.4 km
Discover handpicked vintage gems and streetwear essentials in a family-run boutique at the heart of Durham’s Saddler Street.
Elvet & Bailey
0.4 km
Discover unique handmade gifts and local artisan treasures at Elvet & Bailey, Durham’s beloved boutique in Prince Bishops Shopping Centre.
The Boathouse
0.5 km
Discover unique clothing and accessories at The Boathouse in Durham, a charming shop showcasing local designs and a welcoming atmosphere.
People's Bookshop Durham
0.5 km
Discover Durham’s vibrant radical bookshop, a volunteer-run haven for second-hand books and community stories.
BEAR BOTTOM
0.5 km
Discover unique gifts, collectibles, and local craftsmanship at Bear Bottom, Durham’s beloved indoor market shop.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Dun Cow Durham
0.0 km
Historic Durham pub famed for traditional ales, Tudor Revival interiors, and a warm, authentic local atmosphere.
The Half Moon Inn
0.2 km
Historic Tudor pub on Durham’s riverside offering award-winning ales, scenic courtyard views, and a warm local atmosphere.
Swan & Three Cygnets
0.3 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
0.4 km
Discover Durham’s tiniest gin bar with a colossal selection, expert service, and an intimate, unforgettable atmosphere on Elvet Bridge.
The Library
0.4 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
0.4 km
A vibrant, intimate bar and club in Durham known for its lively music nights, extensive gin selection, and welcoming local vibe.
Blue Eye
0.4 km
Durham’s stylish cocktail bar with creative drinks, lively vibes, and a welcoming atmosphere on historic Elvet Bridge.
The Shakespeare
0.4 km
A historic and quirky Durham pub famed for its real ales, theatrical roots, and ghostly tales in a cosy 12th-century setting.
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 Drunken Duck
0.5 km
A welcoming and lively British pub in Durham's heart, offering quality drinks and a classic atmosphere for locals and visitors alike.
24 North Bailey Club
0.5 km
Durham students’ beloved late-night bar and social club, blending historic charm with lively events on the iconic North Bailey.
Champagne Bar
0.6 km
Sophisticated vintage champagnes and crafted cocktails in Durham’s vibrant Walkergate, blending chic style with welcoming warmth.
Slug & Lettuce - Durham
0.6 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
0.7 km
Discover Durham’s riverside gem with over 250 gins, artisan boards, and expert Ginologists crafting unforgettable cocktails.
The Fighting Cocks
0.7 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
- Lively
- 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
- Locally Managed
- 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
- LGBT Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Pet Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Solo Female Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly
