The Station House: Durham's Artisan Real Ale Pub
Discover Durham’s artisan real ale gem with a cozy communal vibe and award-winning ciders served straight from the barrel.
The Station House is a distinctive pub in Durham known for its excellent selection of real ales and ciders served straight from barrels. With a welcoming artisan atmosphere, communal seating, and a unique no-bar hatch service, it offers a relaxed and sociable environment just a short walk from the city centre. Awarded CAMRA North East Region Pub of the Year, it is a must-visit for beer enthusiasts seeking quality and character.
A brief summary to The Station House
- Station House, North Rd, Durham, DH1 4SE, GB
- Visit website
- Duration: 1 to 3 hours
- Mid ranged
-
Indoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
- Tuesday 4 pm-10:30 pm
- Wednesday 4 pm-10:30 pm
- Thursday 4 pm-10:30 pm
- Friday 2 pm-11 pm
- Saturday 12 pm-11 pm
- Sunday 4 pm-10:30 pm
Local tips
- Try sampling multiple ales in thirds of pints to experience a wider variety of the pub’s excellent selection.
- Visit during local events like the Miners' Gala to enjoy a lively atmosphere and community spirit.
- Upstairs seating offers a quieter space and additional comfort during busy periods.
- Board games are available to enjoy while you sip your drinks, adding to the relaxed vibe.
- The pub opens earlier on weekends, making it a great spot for afternoon gatherings.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
The Station House location weather suitability
-
Any Weather
-
Rain / Wet Weather
-
Mild Temperatures
Discover more about The Station House
A Unique Pub Experience in the Heart of Durham
Nestled on North Road, The Station House offers a refreshing departure from typical pubs with its artisan vibe and intimate setting. The exterior may appear modest, but inside, the space opens up with communal long tables and stools alongside more traditional seating, including rocking chairs. This layout encourages a friendly, social atmosphere where visitors can share conversations over expertly served drinks.Exceptional Real Ales and Ciders
The pub is celebrated for its outstanding range of real ales and ciders, all served directly from barrels to ensure freshness and quality. Patrons can sample multiple varieties in thirds of pints, allowing a broad tasting experience. The Station House also offers a selection of single malts and savoury pastries, complementing the drinks perfectly. This dedication to quality has earned it several accolades, including CAMRA’s North East Region Pub of the Year in 2022 and Cider and City Pub of the Year awards in 2025.Atmosphere and Ambience
The Station House exudes a relaxed, artisan charm with a laid-back, welcoming vibe. Its communal seating fosters a sense of camaraderie, making it a popular spot for locals and visitors alike. The pub’s interior design is simple yet thoughtfully arranged to create a cozy environment. Board games are available to pass the time, and the staff are known for their friendliness and helpfulness, enhancing the overall experience.Historical and Cultural Significance
Though not a traditional railway station anymore, The Station House retains a connection to Durham’s rich industrial past. It has become a cultural hub during local events such as the Miners’ Gala, serving as a favored gathering place. The pub’s name and ambiance pay homage to the city’s heritage, blending history with contemporary craft brewing culture.Visitor Experience and Practical Details
Open from midday on Saturdays and from mid-afternoon on weekdays, The Station House suits both casual drop-ins and planned visits. Its proximity to Durham city centre makes it easily accessible. Multiple toilets and upstairs seating provide comfort even during busy times. The pub’s moderate pricing and quality offerings make it an excellent choice for both locals and tourists seeking authentic real ale experiences.A Destination for Beer Lovers
The Station House stands out as a gem for those passionate about real ales and ciders. Its focus on quality, community, and atmosphere creates a unique pub experience in Durham. Whether sampling a porter, brown ale, or a Shuggy Boat blonde from a local brewery, visitors enjoy a memorable and authentic taste of the region’s brewing excellence.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Durham Viaduct
0.1 km
A majestic Victorian railway viaduct soaring over Durham’s River Wear, blending engineering excellence with stunning historic city views.
Durham British Israel Fellowship
0.2 km
Discover the Durham British Israel Fellowship: A historical church offering community spirit, stunning architecture, and a glimpse into Durham's rich heritage.
Durham
0.4 km
Explore Durham Cathedral, a Norman architectural masterpiece and spiritual sanctuary with stunning views, sacred relics, and rich medieval heritage.
Durham Obelisk
0.4 km
A hidden 90-foot sandstone tower concealed by woodland, marking Durham's forgotten astronomical heritage.
Framwellgate Bridge
0.4 km
Durham’s oldest stone bridge, a medieval marvel offering iconic views of the cathedral and river, steeped in history and timeless charm.
Maiden's Bower
0.4 km
Explore Maiden's Bower, a serene Bronze Age cairn nestled in Durham's Flass Vale, where ancient history meets tranquil woodland beauty.
Market place
0.5 km
Medieval marketplace meets Victorian grandeur—Durham's beating heart of commerce, culture, and community.
Durham Town Hall
0.5 km
Victorian civic landmark hosting culture, heritage, and community in Durham's historic heart.
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.
Durham Band Stand
1.4 km
A peaceful riverside bandstand with one of Durham’s most iconic cathedral views, perfect for quiet moments and photography by the River Wear.
Maiden Castle Earthwork
1.8 km
Explore Durham’s ancient Iron Age promontory fort with its impressive earthworks nestled in tranquil woodland overlooking the River Wear.
Ludworth Tower
8.8 km
A rare 15th-century pele tower standing as a testament to medieval border fortifications
The High Level Bridge
21.1 km
A pioneering double-deck Victorian bridge uniting rail and road across the River Tyne, symbolizing Newcastle’s industrial heritage.
Tyne Bridge
21.1 km
An iconic steel arch bridge spanning the River Tyne, symbolising NewcastleGateshead’s industrial heritage and modern spirit.
Quayside
21.1 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
Dun Holm House - Student Accommodation Durham
0.3 km
Modern riverside student living in Durham with top amenities, vibrant community, and unbeatable access to university and city life.
The Riverwalk
0.3 km
A vibrant riverside shopping and leisure destination in Durham, blending retail, dining, entertainment, and scenic charm.
Beechnut park
0.4 km
A quiet, family-friendly green space in central Durham, perfect for picnics, play, and peaceful walks among trees and lawns.
St Margaret of Antioch Church
0.4 km
Discover Durham’s historic St Margaret of Antioch Church, a Norman gem blending centuries of architecture, art, and vibrant worship near the World Heritage site.
Revolution Durham
0.4 km
Lively lounge and restaurant on Durham’s riverside offering creative cocktails, seasonal British fare, and rooftop views of historic landmarks.
Riverside walk
0.5 km
Explore Durham’s scenic 3-mile riverside loop with historic bridges, cathedral views, and tranquil green spaces along the River Wear.
Indoor Market
0.5 km
Discover Durham Market Hall, a lively Victorian indoor market where history, local crafts, and vibrant community spirit come together under one roof.
The Vintage Shop
0.5 km
Discover timeless treasures and vintage charm in the heart of Durham at The Vintage Shop in Market Tavern.
The House of Eden
0.5 km
Discover handmade treasures and personalised gifts in this charming boutique nestled in Durham Market Hall’s vibrant heart.
Durham Pointers
0.5 km
Your welcoming gateway to explore Durham’s rich heritage, cultural events, and local insights from the heart of Market Place.
The Jubilee Walk
0.5 km
Experience the natural beauty and tranquility of The Jubilee Walk in Aykley Heads, Durham, a perfect escape for nature lovers and families alike.
Flass Vale Local Nature Reserve
0.5 km
A serene ancient woodland reserve on Durham’s edge, rich in wildlife and layered with local history.
Durham Market Hall
0.5 km
Victorian market hall where 40+ independent traders celebrate Durham's heritage and local character.
Durham Castle
0.5 km
Explore over 1000 years of history in Durham Castle, a Norman fortress turned vibrant university college at the heart of a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Umbrella alley
0.6 km
A vibrant canopy of colorful umbrellas brightening Durham’s Millburngate Shopping Centre with artful charm and urban whimsy.
Essential places to dine
The Kingslodge Inn
0.2 km
A traditional inn offering cozy rooms, hearty dining, and warm hospitality just steps from Durham’s historic heart.
coarse
0.3 km
Michelin-recognized modern British tasting menus in a cozy Durham setting, blending seasonal flavors with playful presentations.
The Food Pit
0.3 km
Durham’s first street food hall offering diverse global flavors, local vendors, and stunning views of the Castle and Cathedral in a lively, casual setting.
Nadon Thai - Durham
0.3 km
Experience authentic northern Thai flavors and warm hospitality in the heart of Durham’s historic Crossgate.
TGI Fridays - Durham
0.3 km
Lively American dining with classic flavors and cocktails in Durham’s historic Riverwalk district.
Turtle Bay Durham
0.3 km
Experience vibrant Caribbean flavours and tropical cocktails by the scenic Riverwalk in Durham’s lively Turtle Bay restaurant.
Pizza Punks Durham
0.4 km
Unleash your creativity with unlimited toppings on award-winning sourdough pizzas in a vibrant riverside setting at Pizza Punks Durham.
Estabulo Rodizio Bar & Grill - Durham
0.4 km
Savor unlimited flame-grilled Brazilian meats carved tableside in a vibrant, welcoming atmosphere on Durham’s scenic River Walk.
The Curious Mr Fox
0.4 km
A stylish riverside restaurant and cocktail bar in Durham, famed for fresh British dishes, quirky décor, and expertly crafted drinks.
Collage Restaurant
0.4 km
A modern, relaxed hotel restaurant in Durham serving hearty British breakfasts and classic dinner dishes in a bright, contemporary setting.
Akarsu Turkish Restaurant & Grill
0.5 km
Authentic Turkish flavors and vibrant dining in the heart of historic Durham with stunning river and landmark views.
Rio Brazilian Steakhouse
0.5 km
Authentic Brazilian Churrasco with tableside carving, jungle-inspired ambience, and award-winning service in Durham city centre.
Gussto Tapas Bar - Durham
0.5 km
Authentic Spanish tapas in a historic riverside setting at the heart of Durham.
PESTO ITALIANO
0.5 km
Experience authentic Italian cuisine with warm hospitality in the heart of historic Durham at Pesto Italiano.
Uno Momento
0.5 km
Generous Italian portions and vibrant atmosphere in the heart of historic Durham’s Silver Street.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
company shop
0.1 km
Durham’s Company Shop offers exclusive membership access to discounted surplus groceries, blending savings with sustainability.
Scarlet Ribbons
0.2 km
Discover unique, locally inspired fashion and accessories at Scarlet Ribbons, a charming boutique in the heart of Durham’s vibrant city centre.
Hidden Boutique at Age UK County Durham
0.2 km
Discover unique vintage and designer fashion supporting Age UK’s mission in the heart of Durham’s vibrant city centre.
St News Durham
0.2 km
Discover local delights and essentials at St News Durham, your ultimate convenience store in the heart of the city.
Collected
0.4 km
A warm, independent bookshop in Durham with curated reads, coffee, cakes, and a lively events programme on The Riverwalk.
Cloth
0.5 km
Discover Durham’s hidden basement gem for costumes, vintage clothing, fabrics, and party supplies all in one quirky, creative boutique.
The Cutting Edge
0.5 km
Discover unique handmade gifts and local crafts in the historic heart of Durham at The Cutting Edge.
The Record Shed Durham
0.5 km
Discover Durham’s vinyl paradise in the heart of Market Place, where music lovers find rare records, retro games, and expert media services.
WHSmith
0.5 km
Books, stationery, and local treasures in Durham's vibrant Market Place.
Whittard of Chelsea Durham
0.5 km
Premium tea, coffee, and gifts in Durham's historic Market Place—where expertise meets elegance.
Gateway World Shop
0.5 km
A charming craft shop in Durham’s historic gateway, offering fair trade pottery, jewellery, textiles, and handmade gifts from around the world.
The Edinburgh Woollen Mill
0.6 km
Discover timeless Scottish knitwear and heritage fabrics at The Edinburgh Woollen Mill in Durham’s historic Saddler Street.
BEAR BOTTOM
0.6 km
Discover unique gifts, collectibles, and local craftsmanship at Bear Bottom, Durham’s beloved indoor market shop.
People's Bookshop Durham
0.6 km
Discover Durham’s vibrant radical bookshop, a volunteer-run haven for second-hand books and community stories.
The Boathouse
0.6 km
Discover unique clothing and accessories at The Boathouse in Durham, a charming shop showcasing local designs and a welcoming atmosphere.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
The Station House
0.0 km
Discover Durham’s artisan real ale gem with a cozy communal vibe and award-winning ciders served straight from the barrel.
33 Durham
0.2 km
Discover 33 Durham, a cozy speakeasy cocktail bar blending vintage charm with expertly crafted drinks in the heart of Durham city.
Babylon Durham
0.2 km
A buzzing, budget-friendly bar and nightclub in Durham offering lively nights, packed dance floors, and a true local nightlife experience.
The Angel
0.3 km
A cozy and vibrant traditional pub in Durham, offering local ales, hearty meals, and lively events in a welcoming atmosphere.
The Three Bridges
0.3 km
A lively British pub in Durham blending traditional charm with modern dining, drinks, and sports in a welcoming atmosphere.
The Holy GrAle
0.3 km
Discover Durham’s vibrant craft beer scene at The Holy GrAle, a quirky bar with local brews, live music, and a welcoming atmosphere.
Ye Old Elm Tree
0.3 km
Historic Durham pub blending centuries-old charm with a lively, welcoming atmosphere and excellent real ales.
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.
Old Toms Gin Bar
0.4 km
Discover Durham’s riverside gem with over 250 gins, artisan boards, and expert Ginologists crafting unforgettable cocktails.
Champagne Bar
0.5 km
Sophisticated vintage champagnes and crafted cocktails in Durham’s vibrant Walkergate, blending chic style with welcoming warmth.
Slug & Lettuce - Durham
0.5 km
Lively cocktail bar and restaurant in Durham’s city center, perfect for social drinks, tasty meals, and vibrant events year-round.
Blue Eye
0.6 km
Durham’s stylish cocktail bar with creative drinks, lively vibes, and a welcoming atmosphere on historic Elvet Bridge.
The Shakespeare
0.6 km
A historic and quirky Durham pub famed for its real ales, theatrical roots, and ghostly tales in a cosy 12th-century setting.
The Drunken Duck
0.6 km
A welcoming and lively British pub in Durham's heart, offering quality drinks and a classic atmosphere for locals and visitors alike.
Osbournes
0.6 km
A vibrant, intimate bar and club in Durham known for its lively music nights, extensive gin selection, and welcoming local vibe.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Loft Durham
0.2 km
Discover Loft Durham, the ultimate nightlife destination offering vibrant music, energetic dancing, and a chic atmosphere in the heart of Durham.
Bohemia Durham
0.5 km
Bohemia Durham pulses with vibrant nightlife energy, offering dynamic music and a lively social scene in the heart of historic Durham.
Fabio's Bar
0.6 km
Durham’s lively student nightclub and live music bar above the iconic La Spaghettata, buzzing with events and authentic local charm.
Jimmy Allens
0.6 km
Dive into Durham’s iconic vaulted nightclub where free entry, cheap drinks, and lively crowds create unforgettable nights beneath Elvet Bridge.
Klute
0.7 km
Durham’s iconic, unapologetically rough nightclub famed for nostalgic beats, cheap drinks, and a legendary student party atmosphere.
7even Nightclub
18.8 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)
21.1 km
Experience Newcastle’s vibrant underground gay nightclub scene at Warehouse Night Club (SR44), where eclectic music and lively parties come alive.
Digital
21.2 km
Experience cutting-edge nightlife with superior sound and vibrant energy at Digital, Newcastle’s premier clubbing destination in Times Square.
Powerhouse
21.3 km
Newcastle’s iconic four-floor nightclub blending rich LGBTQ+ history with vibrant, inclusive nightlife and dynamic music scenes.
TheCUT Newcastle
21.4 km
Discover Newcastle’s vibrant alternative nightclub with themed indie, rock, and disco nights in a cozy, unpretentious setting.
Tup Tup Palace
21.4 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
21.4 km
Experience Newcastle’s vibrant nightlife at The Social Club, where music, cocktails, and dancing come alive until the early hours.
Bohemia Newcastle
21.4 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
21.4 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
21.4 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
- Relaxing
- Tranquil
- Lively
- Unique
- Casual
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Rustic Designs
- Vintage Styles
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Heritage Neighborhoods
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Selfie Spots
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
- Adult Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Senior Friendly
