Best Bars near Durham Obelisk

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.

Nestled on Neville Street, 33 Durham is a sophisticated speakeasy-style cocktail bar offering expertly crafted drinks in a cozy, vintage-inspired setting. With a secretive entrance and a focus on classic and innovative cocktails, it provides an exclusive nightlife experience in Durham’s city center. Open evenings until late, it’s perfect for those seeking a stylish, intimate atmosphere.

Babylon Durham is a lively bar and nightclub located at 15 North Road in Durham, known for its bustling dance floor, affordable drinks, and energetic atmosphere. Popular among students and night owls, it offers a quintessential local nightlife experience with a mix of music, crowded spaces, and a well-staffed bar. Though sometimes described as a bit grubby, it remains a favored spot for late-night socializing and weekend parties.

The Three Bridges is a vibrant pub located on North Road in Durham, offering a welcoming atmosphere with a blend of modern and traditional British pub culture. Known for its extensive menu featuring British classics and burgers, it also boasts a great selection of hand-pulled ales, craft beers, and cocktails. The pub’s spacious interior, recent refurbishment, and lively ambiance make it a popular spot for casual dining, socializing, and watching sports.

Located at 53 Crossgate in Durham, The Angel is a traditional British pub known for its warm atmosphere, local ales, and hearty meals. With a cozy interior featuring punk-inspired decor, live music nights, and a welcoming vibe, it offers a quintessential pub experience blending history and vibrant social life in the heart of the city.

Nestled on 57 Crossgate in the historic city of Durham, The Holy GrAle is a vibrant craft beer bar known for its extensive selection of local and international brews. Housed in a former board-games café, this open-plan venue offers a quirky, relaxed atmosphere with vaulted basement live music sessions and a well-stocked bottle shop. It’s a must-visit for beer enthusiasts seeking quality cask ales and craft beers in a friendly, welcoming setting.

Ye Old Elm Tree is a traditional pub located at 12 Crossgate, Durham, known for its cozy, friendly vibe and rich history dating back to at least 1600. It offers a well-curated selection of real ales, a lively yet comfortable interior with exposed stone walls and wooden beams, and a dog-friendly environment. Popular among locals, students, and visitors, it features an L-shaped bar, a separate upstairs room, and a heated outdoor patio, making it a versatile spot for socialising and enjoying quality drinks.

Old Toms Gin Bar, located at 33 Riverwalk in Durham, is a vibrant and stylish spot famed for its extensive gin selection, artisan cheese and charcuterie boards, and expert bartenders known as Ginologists. With riverside views and a welcoming atmosphere, it offers a perfect blend of historic gin heritage and contemporary mixology, ideal for relaxed afternoons or lively evenings.

The Fighting Cocks is a popular pub located at 4 South Street in Durham, known for its lively atmosphere, affordable drinks, and friendly vibe. Open daily with extended hours on weekends, it offers a casual setting ideal for socializing and enjoying reasonably priced food and drinks in the heart of the city.

Slug & Lettuce Durham is a lively cocktail bar and restaurant located at 7 Walkergate, Durham. Known for its vibrant atmosphere, diverse menu including vegetarian and vegan options, and popular cocktail offerings, it serves as a perfect spot for socializing, casual dining, and late-night drinks. With a welcoming beer garden for summer weekends and regular events like Flamingo Bingo Fridays, it blends contemporary style with a fun, inclusive vibe.