The Boat Club & Tomahawk Steakhouse, Durham
Historic riverside venue in Durham offering vibrant cocktails, Himalayan dry-aged steaks, and panoramic views of the River Wear and Elvet Bridge.
Nestled on the scenic Elvet Riverside in Durham, The Boat Club & Tomahawk offers a vibrant cocktail bar and a renowned steakhouse in a historic 500-year-old building. With panoramic views over the River Wear and medieval Elvet Bridge, this venue blends riverside charm with modern dining, featuring Himalayan dry-aged steaks and a lively beer garden atmosphere.
A brief summary to The Boat Club & Tomahawk Steakhouse
- Elvet Riverside, Durham, DH1 3AF, GB
- +441913866210
- Visit website
- Duration: 1 to 3 hours
- Mid ranged
-
Mixed
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
- Monday 12 pm-12 am
- Tuesday 12 pm-12 am
- Wednesday 12 pm-12 am
- Thursday 12 pm-12 am
- Friday 10 am-12 am
- Saturday 10 am-1 am
- Sunday 10 am-12 am
Local tips
- Try the Himalayan dry-aged steaks for a signature dining experience, especially the large sharing boards if visiting with a group.
- Visit during lunch hours Sunday to Friday to take advantage of the two-course lunch offer at a great value.
- Enjoy the heated riverside beer garden for a relaxed atmosphere with scenic views, ideal even in cooler weather.
- Reserve ahead for weekends or special events to ensure seating, as the venue can get busy especially during peak times.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Trash Bins
- Information Boards
The Boat Club & Tomahawk Steakhouse location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Rain / Wet Weather
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Clear Skies
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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about The Boat Club & Tomahawk Steakhouse
Historic Riverside Setting with Panoramic Views
Situated in a 500-year-old building on the banks of the River Wear, The Boat Club & Tomahawk Steakhouse boasts stunning panoramic views of Durham’s iconic medieval Elvet Bridge and the traditional cityscape. The riverside location provides a picturesque backdrop that enhances both the dining and social experience, making it a favored spot for locals and visitors alike. The venue’s heritage adds a unique character, blending historical ambiance with contemporary hospitality.Dual Concept Venue: Cocktail Bar and Steakhouse
The venue operates on two floors, with The Boat Club cocktail bar on the ground floor featuring a heated beer garden overlooking the river, perfect for relaxed socializing. Upstairs, the Tomahawk Steakhouse specializes in Himalayan dry-aged steaks, celebrated for their quality and flavor. The steakhouse offers a range of cuts including large sharing boards and more modest options like smash burgers, catering to diverse appetites. The menu balances indulgence with approachable dishes, complemented by attentive service.Atmosphere and Service
The Boat Club & Tomahawk is known for its lively yet relaxed atmosphere, enhanced by resident DJs and pleasant music that fills the space without overwhelming conversation. The interior is clean and stylish, with a welcoming vibe that suits both casual gatherings and special occasions. Service is generally attentive and friendly, with staff praised for their warmth and professionalism, contributing to an inviting overall experience.Dining Highlights and Offers
Signature dishes include expertly cooked steaks and a variety of sharing boards ideal for groups. The venue also offers popular bottomless brunches and a well-regarded Sunday lunch menu featuring two courses at a reasonable price. While some dishes can be on the pricier side, the quality and portion sizes generally satisfy most diners. The cocktail selection is extensive, pairing well with the food and the scenic riverside setting.Community and Cultural Significance
As a prominent fixture in Durham’s dining scene, The Boat Club & Tomahawk contributes to the city’s vibrant culinary culture. Its combination of historic charm, quality food, and lively social spaces makes it a key destination for both residents and tourists. The venue supports local hospitality employment and enhances the riverside’s appeal as a cultural and leisure hub.Practical Details and Visitor Experience
Open daily with extended hours on weekends, the venue accommodates a range of dining and social preferences. The heated outdoor beer garden allows year-round enjoyment of the riverside views. The location is accessible within Durham city center, making it an easy addition to any city exploration. Visitors can expect a dynamic experience blending history, gastronomy, and social vibrancy.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Durham Town Hall
0.2 km
Victorian civic landmark hosting culture, heritage, and community in Durham's historic heart.
Market place
0.2 km
Medieval marketplace meets Victorian grandeur—Durham's beating heart of commerce, culture, and community.
Framwellgate Bridge
0.3 km
Durham’s oldest stone bridge, a medieval marvel offering iconic views of the cathedral and river, steeped in history and timeless charm.
Durham British Israel Fellowship
0.5 km
Discover the Durham British Israel Fellowship: A historical church offering community spirit, stunning architecture, and a glimpse into Durham's rich heritage.
Kathedra
0.6 km
Explore the Kathedra in Durham, a stunning gothic stone chair by the river, perfect for history lovers and photography enthusiasts alike.
Durham Band Stand
0.7 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 Viaduct
0.7 km
A majestic Victorian railway viaduct soaring over Durham’s River Wear, blending engineering excellence with stunning historic city views.
Durham
0.7 km
Explore Durham Cathedral, a Norman architectural masterpiece and spiritual sanctuary with stunning views, sacred relics, and rich medieval heritage.
Durham Obelisk
1.0 km
A hidden 90-foot sandstone tower concealed by woodland, marking Durham's forgotten astronomical heritage.
Maiden Castle Earthwork
1.1 km
Explore Durham’s ancient Iron Age promontory fort with its impressive earthworks nestled in tranquil woodland overlooking the River Wear.
Maiden's Bower
1.1 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
8.1 km
A rare 15th-century pele tower standing as a testament to medieval border fortifications
The High Level Bridge
21.4 km
A pioneering double-deck Victorian bridge uniting rail and road across the River Tyne, symbolizing Newcastle’s industrial heritage.
Tyne Bridge
21.4 km
An iconic steel arch bridge spanning the River Tyne, symbolising NewcastleGateshead’s industrial heritage and modern spirit.
Quayside
21.4 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
Escape Rooms Durham
0.1 km
Immersive puzzle adventures in Durham's historic centre—from spy missions to gothic mysteries.
Umbrella alley
0.1 km
A vibrant canopy of colorful umbrellas brightening Durham’s Millburngate Shopping Centre with artful charm and urban whimsy.
No 59 Old Elvet
0.1 km
An intimate evening bistro on historic Old Elvet street, blending local heritage with contemporary dining in the heart of Durham.
Department of History • Durham University
0.2 km
Explore history where Durham’s rich past meets vibrant academic excellence at the University’s historic North Bailey location.
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.
Durham Market Hall
0.2 km
Victorian market hall where 40+ independent traders celebrate Durham's heritage and local character.
The House of Eden
0.2 km
Discover handmade treasures and personalised gifts in this charming boutique nestled in Durham Market Hall’s vibrant heart.
Durham Pointers
0.2 km
Your welcoming gateway to explore Durham’s rich heritage, cultural events, and local insights from the heart of Market Place.
The Vintage Shop
0.2 km
Discover timeless treasures and vintage charm in the heart of Durham at The Vintage Shop in Market Tavern.
Durham Big Sing
0.2 km
A joyful community choral event in Durham celebrating inclusive singing and vibrant local music culture.
Durham Castle
0.2 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.
Indoor Market
0.2 km
Discover Durham Market Hall, a lively Victorian indoor market where history, local crafts, and vibrant community spirit come together under one roof.
Durham Museum
0.3 km
Medieval heritage and local history in the heart of historic Durham, near the cathedral.
World Heritage Site Visitor Centre
0.3 km
Free gateway to understanding Durham's UNESCO World Heritage Site and medieval treasures
Department of Classics and Ancient History • Durham University
0.3 km
Classical scholarship in a medieval setting: Durham's premier centre for ancient languages, philosophy, and Mediterranean studies.
Essential places to dine
The Boat Club & Tomahawk Steakhouse
0.0 km
Discover exquisite steaks and crafted cocktails at The Boat Club & Tomahawk Steakhouse on Elvet Riverside - where taste meets tranquility.
Restaurant 17
0.1 km
Boutique dining below Elvet Bridge offering world-inspired dishes in an intimate, candlelit setting with fresh local ingredients.
19Twenty Bar & Grill
0.1 km
Modern grill and cocktail bar on Durham’s Elvet Bridge, serving gourmet burgers and steaks with scenic riverside views.
Notch Durham
0.1 km
Slow-cooked American barbecue and craft cocktails in Durham's vibrant city centre.
Tapas Factory
0.1 km
Authentic Spanish tapas and Mediterranean flavors in Durham's vibrant city center.
Tango Durham
0.1 km
Lively American-style burgers, fresh local produce, and creative cocktails in Durham’s vibrant city centre with riverside terrace dining.
Fat Hippo Durham
0.1 km
Savor bold, inventive burgers in a quirky multi-level venue on historic Saddler Street, Durham’s heart of casual dining.
Zizzi - Durham
0.1 km
Modern Italian dining in the heart of Durham – wood-fired pizzas, fresh pasta, and a relaxed atmosphere just steps from the cathedral.
Flat White Kitchen
0.1 km
Experience Durham’s finest coffee and brunch in a cozy 17th-century townhouse with a modern rustic vibe and welcoming atmosphere.
The Cellar Door
0.1 km
Historic riverside dining with seasonal Modern European cuisine and scenic terraces in the heart of Durham.
Turkish Kitchen Meze and grill
0.1 km
Authentic Turkish grilling and meze in Durham's vibrant city centre, where tradition meets modern hospitality.
La Spaghettata
0.1 km
Durham’s longest-standing independent Italian restaurant, serving authentic, hearty Italian dishes in a cozy, welcoming setting since 1996.
Lebaneat
0.2 km
Experience authentic Lebanese flavors with generous portions and diverse dietary options in the heart of historic Durham.
Tia’s
0.2 km
Authentic Mexican and Mediterranean flavors with a dedicated vegan menu and friendly service in the heart of Durham.
Uno Momento
0.2 km
Generous Italian portions and vibrant atmosphere in the heart of historic Durham’s Silver Street.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
TJ Hughes
0.1 km
Durham’s trusted discount department store offering top brands in home, fashion, and electronics at unbeatable prices.
Oxfam Shop
0.1 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
0.1 km
Durham’s vibrant shopping centre blending high street brands, local boutiques, and award-winning facilities in the city’s historic heart.
Discovering Durham CIC
0.1 km
Empowering Durham’s local producers through unique crafts, gifts, and community-driven retail on historic High Street.
Elvet & Bailey
0.1 km
Discover unique handmade gifts and local artisan treasures at Elvet & Bailey, Durham’s beloved boutique in Prince Bishops Shopping Centre.
Rohan Durham - Outdoor Clothing & Walking Gear
0.1 km
Discover Rohan Durham, your premier destination for high-quality outdoor clothing and gear, perfect for every adventurer in the beautiful English countryside.
Waceland Durham
0.1 km
Discover handpicked vintage gems and streetwear essentials in a family-run boutique at the heart of Durham’s Saddler Street.
The Mugwump
0.1 km
Discover Durham’s iconic boutique blending vintage fashion, unique gifts, and local art in a charming historic setting.
Circle Vintage Durham
0.1 km
Discover Durham’s largest curated vintage clothing collection in a charming historic boutique on Saddler Street.
The Boathouse
0.1 km
Discover unique clothing and accessories at The Boathouse in Durham, a charming shop showcasing local designs and a welcoming atmosphere.
BEAR BOTTOM
0.1 km
Discover unique gifts, collectibles, and local craftsmanship at Bear Bottom, Durham’s beloved indoor market shop.
People's Bookshop Durham
0.1 km
Discover Durham’s vibrant radical bookshop, a volunteer-run haven for second-hand books and community stories.
The Edinburgh Woollen Mill
0.1 km
Discover timeless Scottish knitwear and heritage fabrics at The Edinburgh Woollen Mill in Durham’s historic Saddler Street.
The Georgian Window
0.1 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
0.1 km
Discover elegant Italian fashion in Durham’s historic Georgian window boutique, blending timeless style with personalized service.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Tin Of Sardines Gin Bar - Durham
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Discover Durham’s tiniest gin bar with a colossal selection, expert service, and an intimate, unforgettable atmosphere on Elvet Bridge.
Swan & Three Cygnets
0.1 km
Traditional riverside pub with a no-technology policy, affordable drinks, and cosy charm beside Durham’s historic Elvet Bridge.
Osbournes
0.1 km
A vibrant, intimate bar and club in Durham known for its lively music nights, extensive gin selection, and welcoming local vibe.
Blue Eye
0.1 km
Durham’s stylish cocktail bar with creative drinks, lively vibes, and a welcoming atmosphere on historic Elvet Bridge.
The Library
0.1 km
A lively pub and social hub in Durham offering quality drinks, creative vegan dishes, and a quirky, welcoming atmosphere from morning till late.
The Shakespeare
0.1 km
A historic and quirky Durham pub famed for its real ales, theatrical roots, and ghostly tales in a cosy 12th-century setting.
The Half Moon Inn
0.1 km
Historic Tudor pub on Durham’s riverside offering award-winning ales, scenic courtyard views, and a warm local atmosphere.
The Drunken Duck
0.2 km
A welcoming and lively British pub in Durham's heart, offering quality drinks and a classic atmosphere for locals and visitors alike.
Champagne Bar
0.3 km
Sophisticated vintage champagnes and crafted cocktails in Durham’s vibrant Walkergate, blending chic style with welcoming warmth.
Slug & Lettuce - Durham
0.3 km
Lively cocktail bar and restaurant in Durham’s city center, perfect for social drinks, tasty meals, and vibrant events year-round.
Dun Cow Durham
0.3 km
Historic Durham pub famed for traditional ales, Tudor Revival interiors, and a warm, authentic local atmosphere.
Old Toms Gin Bar
0.3 km
Discover Durham’s riverside gem with over 250 gins, artisan boards, and expert Ginologists crafting unforgettable cocktails.
The Fighting Cocks
0.4 km
A lively, affordable pub in Durham’s city centre, perfect for casual drinks and socializing in a friendly, unpretentious setting.
The Three Bridges
0.4 km
A lively British pub in Durham blending traditional charm with modern dining, drinks, and sports in a welcoming atmosphere.
24 North Bailey Club
0.4 km
Durham students’ beloved late-night bar and social club, blending historic charm with lively events on the iconic North Bailey.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Klute
0.1 km
Durham’s iconic, unapologetically rough nightclub famed for nostalgic beats, cheap drinks, and a legendary student party atmosphere.
Jimmy Allens
0.1 km
Dive into Durham’s iconic vaulted nightclub where free entry, cheap drinks, and lively crowds create unforgettable nights beneath Elvet Bridge.
Fabio's Bar
0.1 km
Durham’s lively student nightclub and live music bar above the iconic La Spaghettata, buzzing with events and authentic local charm.
Bohemia Durham
0.3 km
Bohemia Durham pulses with vibrant nightlife energy, offering dynamic music and a lively social scene in the heart of historic Durham.
Loft Durham
0.5 km
Discover Loft Durham, the ultimate nightlife destination offering vibrant music, energetic dancing, and a chic atmosphere in the heart of Durham.
7even Nightclub
18.6 km
Sunderland’s alternative nightclub with two floors of indie, soul, and rock music, hosting themed parties and vibrant late-night events.
Warehouse Night Club(SR44)
21.4 km
Experience Newcastle’s vibrant underground gay nightclub scene at Warehouse Night Club (SR44), where eclectic music and lively parties come alive.
Digital
21.5 km
Experience cutting-edge nightlife with superior sound and vibrant energy at Digital, Newcastle’s premier clubbing destination in Times Square.
Powerhouse
21.6 km
Newcastle’s iconic four-floor nightclub blending rich LGBTQ+ history with vibrant, inclusive nightlife and dynamic music scenes.
TheCUT Newcastle
21.7 km
Discover Newcastle’s vibrant alternative nightclub with themed indie, rock, and disco nights in a cozy, unpretentious setting.
Tup Tup Palace
21.7 km
Experience Newcastle’s vibrant nightlife in style at Tup Tup Palace, a luxurious club blending exotic décor with pulsating beats until the early hours.
The Social Club
21.7 km
Experience Newcastle’s vibrant nightlife at The Social Club, where music, cocktails, and dancing come alive until the early hours.
Bohemia Newcastle
21.7 km
Neon-lit cocktail bar and compact club with graffiti murals, a mezzanine dance space and a sheltered courtyard terrace for late-night socialising.
TROPICANA NEWCASTLE
21.7 km
Experience Newcastle’s vibrant nightlife at Tropicana, a lively nightclub blending cocktail sophistication with energetic club beats in the city’s heart.
Loca Loca | Newcastle
21.7 km
A compact, neon-lit nightclub on Groat Market serving late-night dance, chart and urban sets in an intimate city-centre setting.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Lively
- Relaxing
- Scenic
- Fun-filled
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Modern Designs
- Rustic Designs
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- Parks & Gardens
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Waterfront
- Sunset Spots
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Selfie Spots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Locally Managed
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Weekend Getaway
- Festival / Event Nearby
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