The Woodman Inn – Charming Traditional Pub in Durham
A traditional Durham pub with a spacious beer garden, diverse drinks, and a welcoming atmosphere for locals and visitors alike.
The Woodman Inn is a traditional pub located on 23 Gilesgate in Durham, offering a welcoming atmosphere with a well-stocked bar featuring lagers, real ales, gins, and malt whiskies. Known for its spacious beer garden and friendly vibe, it serves as a popular local spot for casual dining and drinks, open daily from noon until 11pm.
A brief summary to The Woodman Inn - Durham
- 23 Gilesgate, Durham, DH1 1QW, GB
- +441916975369
- Visit website
- Duration: 1 to 3 hours
- Budget
-
Indoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
- Monday 12 pm-11 pm
- Tuesday 12 pm-11 pm
- Wednesday 12 pm-11 pm
- Thursday 12 pm-11 pm
- Friday 12 pm-11 pm
- Saturday 12 pm-11 pm
- Sunday 12 pm-11 pm
Local tips
- Visit during warmer months to enjoy the spacious beer garden, perfect for groups and families.
- Try the selection of real ales and malt whiskies for an authentic British pub experience.
- Arrive early in the evening to enjoy live entertainment and avoid peak crowd times.
- The pub opens daily at noon and closes at 11pm, suitable for lunch, afternoon, or evening visits.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Trash Bins
- Information Boards
The Woodman Inn - Durham location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Clear Skies
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Rain / Wet Weather
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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about The Woodman Inn - Durham
A Historic Pub with a Warm Welcome
Nestled in the heart of Durham on Gilesgate, The Woodman Inn presents a classic British pub experience. It combines traditional charm with a modern touch, creating a cozy and inviting environment. The pub’s interior features tasteful décor that respects its heritage while providing comfort and style. It stands as a favored spot among locals and visitors alike, offering a relaxed setting to enjoy a pint or a meal.Extensive Drink Selection and Quality Fare
The Woodman Inn boasts a broad selection of beverages, including several real ales, lagers, and an impressive range of spirits such as gins and malt whiskies. This variety caters to diverse tastes, ensuring every guest finds something to enjoy. Alongside drinks, the pub serves well-prepared food that complements the drink menu, making it suitable for both casual snacks and more substantial meals.Spacious Beer Garden and Social Atmosphere
One of the pub’s standout features is its large beer garden, ideal for warmer months. The garden provides ample space for families and groups, with a lively yet laid-back atmosphere. It is a popular place to unwind, offering a safe and pleasant environment for children to play while adults socialize. The garden’s size and design contribute significantly to the pub’s reputation as a community hub.Accessibility and Operating Hours
The Woodman Inn operates daily from 12 noon to 11pm, making it accessible for lunch, afternoon drinks, and evening gatherings. Its location on Gilesgate places it within reach of Durham’s city center without being directly in the busiest part, offering a quieter alternative. The pub is known for being accommodating to various guests, including those with mobility considerations.Community and Events
The Woodman Inn often hosts live entertainment and events that enhance its friendly and lively atmosphere. These occasions provide opportunities for visitors to engage with local culture and music, enriching the overall experience. The staff and management emphasize creating a welcoming environment where patrons feel valued and comfortable.Reputation and Visitor Experience
While the pub enjoys a strong local following and positive feedback for its ambiance and drink selection, some visitors have noted occasional inconsistencies in service. Nonetheless, the overall impression remains one of a well-loved establishment that balances quality, value, and conviviality in a historic setting.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Durham Band Stand
0.5 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
0.6 km
Victorian civic landmark hosting culture, heritage, and community in Durham's historic heart.
Market place
0.6 km
Medieval marketplace meets Victorian grandeur—Durham's beating heart of commerce, culture, and community.
Framwellgate Bridge
0.8 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
0.9 km
Discover the Durham British Israel Fellowship: A historical church offering community spirit, stunning architecture, and a glimpse into Durham's rich heritage.
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 Viaduct
1.1 km
A majestic Victorian railway viaduct soaring over Durham’s River Wear, blending engineering excellence with stunning historic city views.
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.
Durham
1.2 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
21.1 km
A pioneering double-deck Victorian bridge uniting rail and road across the River Tyne, symbolizing Newcastle’s industrial heritage.
Tyne Bridge
21.2 km
An iconic steel arch bridge spanning the River Tyne, symbolising NewcastleGateshead’s industrial heritage and modern spirit.
Quayside
21.2 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
The Durham Cow
0.4 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.
No 59 Old Elvet
0.4 km
An intimate evening bistro on historic Old Elvet street, blending local heritage with contemporary dining in the heart of Durham.
Durham Big Sing
0.5 km
A joyful community choral event in Durham celebrating inclusive singing and vibrant local music culture.
Elvet Bridge
0.5 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.
Umbrella alley
0.6 km
A vibrant canopy of colorful umbrellas brightening Durham’s Millburngate Shopping Centre with artful charm and urban whimsy.
Escape Rooms Durham
0.6 km
Immersive puzzle adventures in Durham's historic centre—from spy missions to gothic mysteries.
National Trust - Crook Hall Gardens
0.6 km
Explore Durham’s historic Crook Hall Gardens, a tranquil National Trust haven blending medieval heritage with stunning gardens and city views.
Durham Market Hall
0.6 km
Victorian market hall where 40+ independent traders celebrate Durham's heritage and local character.
The House of Eden
0.6 km
Discover handmade treasures and personalised gifts in this charming boutique nestled in Durham Market Hall’s vibrant heart.
Durham Pointers
0.6 km
Your welcoming gateway to explore Durham’s rich heritage, cultural events, and local insights from the heart of Market Place.
The Vintage Shop
0.6 km
Discover timeless treasures and vintage charm in the heart of Durham at The Vintage Shop in Market Tavern.
Indoor Market
0.6 km
Discover Durham Market Hall, a lively Victorian indoor market where history, local crafts, and vibrant community spirit come together under one roof.
Department of History • Durham University
0.6 km
Explore history where Durham’s rich past meets vibrant academic excellence at the University’s historic North Bailey location.
Durham Castle
0.7 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.
Durham Museum
0.7 km
Medieval heritage and local history in the heart of historic Durham, near the cathedral.
Essential places to dine
Little Sicily
0.3 km
Authentic Sicilian Italian restaurant in Durham offering fresh, affordable dishes in a warm, family-friendly atmosphere.
Bistro Italiano
0.3 km
Authentic Italian flavors served with warmth and charm in the heart of Durham’s historic district.
Tia’s
0.4 km
Authentic Mexican and Mediterranean flavors with a dedicated vegan menu and friendly service in the heart of Durham.
The Townhouse Restaurant
0.4 km
A chic and intimate spot in Durham serving modern British cuisine with a stylish, welcoming atmosphere.
Marco Pierre White Steakhouse Bar & Grill Durham
0.5 km
Historic charm meets exquisite steakhouse dining in Durham’s unique circular room at Marco Pierre White Steakhouse Bar & Grill.
The Boat Club & Tomahawk Steakhouse
0.5 km
Discover exquisite steaks and crafted cocktails at The Boat Club & Tomahawk Steakhouse on Elvet Riverside - where taste meets tranquility.
Notch Durham
0.5 km
Slow-cooked American barbecue and craft cocktails in Durham's vibrant city centre.
Zen
0.5 km
Experience authentic Asian fusion cuisine in a stylish Durham setting, blending traditional flavours with modern flair.
Restaurant 17
0.5 km
Boutique dining below Elvet Bridge offering world-inspired dishes in an intimate, candlelit setting with fresh local ingredients.
19Twenty Bar & Grill
0.5 km
Modern grill and cocktail bar on Durham’s Elvet Bridge, serving gourmet burgers and steaks with scenic riverside views.
Tapas Factory
0.6 km
Authentic Spanish tapas and Mediterranean flavors in Durham's vibrant city center.
ASK Italian
0.6 km
Experience authentic Italian flavors with a modern twist in Durham’s vibrant city centre, featuring vegan options and local Durham Gin.
Fat Hippo Durham
0.6 km
Savor bold, inventive burgers in a quirky multi-level venue on historic Saddler Street, Durham’s heart of casual dining.
Spice Lounge
0.6 km
Award-winning Indian cuisine with authentic homestyle curries in Durham’s charming Market Place.
Tango Durham
0.6 km
Lively American-style burgers, fresh local produce, and creative cocktails in Durham’s vibrant city centre with riverside terrace dining.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
TJ Hughes
0.5 km
Durham’s trusted discount department store offering top brands in home, fashion, and electronics at unbeatable prices.
Prince Bishops Place
0.5 km
Durham’s vibrant shopping centre blending high street brands, local boutiques, and award-winning facilities in the city’s historic heart.
7 Day Store
0.5 km
Discover authentic Asian flavors and ingredients at Durham’s vibrant 7 Day Store, open daily for your culinary adventures.
Discovering Durham CIC
0.5 km
Empowering Durham’s local producers through unique crafts, gifts, and community-driven retail on historic High Street.
Oxfam Shop
0.5 km
Discover pre-loved books, music, and more at Durham’s Oxfam Shop—where every purchase supports global poverty relief and sustainability.
Elvet & Bailey
0.5 km
Discover unique handmade gifts and local artisan treasures at Elvet & Bailey, Durham’s beloved boutique in Prince Bishops Shopping Centre.
Gateway World Shop
0.6 km
A charming craft shop in Durham’s historic gateway, offering fair trade pottery, jewellery, textiles, and handmade gifts from around the world.
Rohan Durham - Outdoor Clothing & Walking Gear
0.6 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
0.6 km
Discover handpicked vintage gems and streetwear essentials in a family-run boutique at the heart of Durham’s Saddler Street.
BEAR BOTTOM
0.6 km
Discover unique gifts, collectibles, and local craftsmanship at Bear Bottom, Durham’s beloved indoor market shop.
The Mugwump
0.6 km
Discover Durham’s iconic boutique blending vintage fashion, unique gifts, and local art in a charming historic setting.
Circle Vintage Durham
0.6 km
Discover Durham’s largest curated vintage clothing collection in a charming historic boutique on Saddler Street.
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.
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 Edinburgh Woollen Mill
0.6 km
Discover timeless Scottish knitwear and heritage fabrics at The Edinburgh Woollen Mill in Durham’s historic Saddler Street.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
The Woodman Inn - Durham
0.0 km
A traditional Durham pub with a spacious beer garden, diverse drinks, and a welcoming atmosphere for locals and visitors alike.
Dun Cow Durham
0.4 km
Historic Durham pub famed for traditional ales, Tudor Revival interiors, and a warm, authentic local atmosphere.
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.
Swan & Three Cygnets
0.5 km
Traditional riverside pub with a no-technology policy, affordable drinks, and cosy charm beside Durham’s historic Elvet Bridge.
The Half Moon Inn
0.5 km
Historic Tudor pub on Durham’s riverside offering award-winning ales, scenic courtyard views, and a warm local atmosphere.
Tin Of Sardines Gin Bar - Durham
0.5 km
Discover Durham’s tiniest gin bar with a colossal selection, expert service, and an intimate, unforgettable atmosphere on Elvet Bridge.
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.
Champagne Bar
0.6 km
Sophisticated vintage champagnes and crafted cocktails in Durham’s vibrant Walkergate, blending chic style with welcoming warmth.
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.
Blue Eye
0.6 km
Durham’s stylish cocktail bar with creative drinks, lively vibes, and a welcoming atmosphere on historic Elvet Bridge.
The Library
0.6 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
0.6 km
A historic and quirky Durham pub famed for its real ales, theatrical roots, and ghostly tales in a cosy 12th-century setting.
Old Toms Gin Bar
0.8 km
Discover Durham’s riverside gem with over 250 gins, artisan boards, and expert Ginologists crafting unforgettable cocktails.
The Fighting Cocks
0.8 km
A lively, affordable pub in Durham’s city centre, perfect for casual drinks and socializing in a friendly, unpretentious setting.
24 North Bailey Club
0.9 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
0.5 km
Durham’s iconic, unapologetically rough nightclub famed for nostalgic beats, cheap drinks, and a legendary student party atmosphere.
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.
Bohemia Durham
0.6 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.
Loft Durham
0.9 km
Discover Loft Durham, the ultimate nightlife destination offering vibrant music, energetic dancing, and a chic atmosphere in the heart of Durham.
7even Nightclub
18.1 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)
21.2 km
Experience Newcastle’s vibrant underground gay nightclub scene at Warehouse Night Club (SR44), where eclectic music and lively parties come alive.
Digital
21.3 km
Experience cutting-edge nightlife with superior sound and vibrant energy at Digital, Newcastle’s premier clubbing destination in Times Square.
Powerhouse
21.4 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
21.5 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
21.5 km
Experience Newcastle’s vibrant nightlife at The Social Club, where music, cocktails, and dancing come alive until the early hours.
Bohemia Newcastle
21.5 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
21.5 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
21.5 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
- Lively
- Casual
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Vintage Styles
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Parks & Gardens
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
For the social media creator & influencer
- Photo Spots
- Selfie Spots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Weekend Getaway
- Day Trip
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