The Boathouse
Historic riverside steakhouse and cocktail bar with panoramic views of medieval Elvet Bridge.
The Boathouse is a stylish riverside restaurant and cocktail bar located in a historic 500-year-old building on the banks of the River Wear in Durham city centre. Housed across two floors, it features The Boat Club cocktail bar on the ground level and the Tomahawk Steakhouse upstairs, both offering panoramic views of the medieval Elvet Bridge. Known for expertly cooked steaks, vibrant bottomless brunches, and exceptional cocktails, the venue combines fine dining with a relaxed, lively atmosphere. The heated outdoor terrace provides an ideal spot to enjoy riverside views year-round.
A brief summary to The Boathouse
- 59 Saddler St, Durham, DH1 3NP, GB
- +441913866210
- Visit website
- Duration: 1.5 to 3.5 hours
- Mid ranged
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Mixed
- Mobile reception: 5 out of 5
Local tips
- Visit on Sunday evenings around 6 PM for a more relaxed atmosphere with shorter waits, ideal for enjoying the riverside views without peak-time crowds.
- Take advantage of cocktail happy hour deals starting at £7.50, available during designated times, to experience the bar's craft cocktails at better value.
- Book the outdoor terrace in advance during pleasant weather months to secure the best riverside views of Elvet Bridge, particularly for sunset dining.
- The bottomless brunch includes steak and fries with unlimited cocktails; arrive early on weekends as this popular offering draws significant crowds.
- Request seating on the balcony area overlooking the river when weather permits, as this location provides the most impressive views of the medieval bridge and water.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Sheltered Areas
The Boathouse location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Clear Skies
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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about The Boathouse
A Historic Riverside Setting
The Boathouse occupies a distinguished 500-year-old building positioned directly on the banks of the River Wear, one of Durham's most picturesque locations. The venue commands panoramic views of the medieval Elvet Bridge, a UNESCO World Heritage Site structure that frames the dining experience with authentic historical character. This riverside setting provides a natural focal point for the restaurant, with the outdoor heated terrace offering an exceptional vantage point for observing the river's flow and the city's architectural heritage throughout the seasons.Two-Tier Concept and Culinary Focus
The Boathouse operates as a dual-concept venue spread across two floors, each serving distinct purposes within the broader dining experience. The ground floor houses The Boat Club, a sophisticated cocktail bar offering craft drinks and a vibrant social atmosphere. The first floor features the Tomahawk Steakhouse, where the kitchen focuses on premium cuts of Himalayan dry-aged beef prepared to exacting standards. This vertical separation allows guests to experience either casual cocktail enjoyment or formal fine dining, or to combine both within a single visit. The steakhouse has earned particular recognition for the quality and consistency of its meat preparation, with diners frequently describing the steaks as exceptional.Signature Offerings and Dining Experiences
The venue has developed a reputation for several standout offerings that define its culinary identity. The bottomless brunch experience has become notably popular, combining unlimited cocktails with a carefully curated food selection that includes steak and fries alongside other shareable dishes. The cocktail program extends beyond brunch, with happy hour promotions offering drinks from £7.50 and a selection of flavored vodkas and gins that appeal to diverse palates. Small plates such as Korean fish bites demonstrate the kitchen's range beyond its steakhouse specialization. The menu reflects both traditional steakhouse classics and contemporary additions, providing variety for different dining occasions and preferences.Atmosphere and Social Character
The Boathouse cultivates a deliberately balanced atmosphere that accommodates both relaxed social gatherings and more formal dining occasions. The ground-floor cocktail bar maintains a lively, energetic environment suited to evening socializing, while the upstairs steakhouse provides a more refined setting for special occasions and business dining. The outdoor terrace, heated for year-round use, creates an intermediate space that captures the riverside setting's natural appeal while remaining comfortable during cooler months. The venue's riverside location and bridge views contribute significantly to its atmospheric appeal, with many guests citing the visual environment as integral to their experience.Service and Hospitality Standards
The venue has established a service culture that emphasizes attentiveness and genuine hospitality. Staff members are trained to make guests feel welcomed from arrival, with particular attention paid to creating memorable experiences during special occasions such as anniversaries and celebrations. The team demonstrates flexibility in accommodating group dining and manages the logistical challenges of a busy kitchen with generally positive outcomes. Service consistency appears strongest during off-peak periods, with some acknowledgment that peak times occasionally create minor organizational challenges typical of high-volume venues.Practical Considerations for Visitors
The Boathouse operates extended hours throughout the week, opening at 10:00 AM daily and remaining open until 23:00 on Sundays and Mondays, midnight on Wednesdays and Thursdays, and 01:00 on Fridays and Saturdays. This schedule accommodates everything from daytime brunch service through late-evening socializing. The venue welcomes dogs on its outdoor terrace, making it accessible to guests traveling with pets. Wi-Fi is available throughout the premises, supporting both leisure and business visitors. The riverside location in Durham city centre provides convenient access to other attractions while maintaining a sense of separation from the busier commercial streets.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Market place
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Durham Town Hall
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Framwellgate Bridge
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Kathedra
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Durham Viaduct
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Durham
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Durham Band Stand
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Durham Obelisk
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Maiden's Bower
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Maiden Castle Earthwork
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Ludworth Tower
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The High Level Bridge
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Tyne Bridge
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Quayside
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Unmissable attractions to see
Escape Rooms Durham
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Durham Market Hall
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The Vintage Shop
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The House of Eden
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Indoor Market
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Durham Castle
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Explore over 1000 years of history in this Norman castle, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and vibrant university residence in the heart of Durham.
Elvet Bridge
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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.
Department of History • Durham University
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Explore history where Durham’s rich past meets vibrant academic excellence at the University’s historic North Bailey location.
World Heritage Site Visitor Centre
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Palace Green
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Palace Green Library
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Museum of Archaeology • Durham University
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The Riverwalk
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Essential places to dine
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Restaurant 17
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Zizzi - Durham
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PESTO ITALIANO
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Gussto Tapas Bar - Durham
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The Boat Club & Tomahawk Steakhouse
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Spice Lounge
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
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BEAR BOTTOM
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Waceland Durham
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Rohan Durham - Outdoor Clothing & Walking Gear
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Elvet & Bailey
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Whittard of Chelsea Durham
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The Mugwump
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Oxfam Shop
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Discovering Durham CIC
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Circle Vintage Durham
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WHSmith
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Gateway World Shop
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Prince Bishops Place
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Blue Eye
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The Shakespeare
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The Three Bridges
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The Holy GrAle
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For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Romantic
- Lively
- Entertaining
- Scenic
- Casual
- Boutique
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Historic
- Modern Designs
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- Waterfront
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Waterfront
- Panoramas
- Sunset Spots
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Aesthetic Corners
- Architectural Shots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Locally Managed
- Public-Transport Accessible
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Day Trip
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- LGBT Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Pet Friendly
- Business Friendly
