Background

Turtle Bay Durham: Vibrant Caribbean Flavours by the Riverwalk

Experience vibrant Caribbean flavours and tropical cocktails by the scenic Riverwalk in Durham’s lively Turtle Bay restaurant.

★★★★★4.9 (2693)

Turtle Bay Durham offers a lively Caribbean dining experience in a vibrant riverside setting. Located at The Riverwalk, this restaurant combines authentic island flavours with a fun, colourful atmosphere. Guests enjoy a diverse menu featuring jerk pit ribs, vegan options, and tropical cocktails, alongside attentive service and a buzzing social vibe. Ideal for casual meals, group celebrations, or a relaxed night out with friends, Turtle Bay Durham brings a taste of the Caribbean to the heart of Durham.

Plan your visit

A brief summary to Turtle Bay Durham

Opening times, essentials, and a few local tips gathered into one calmer, easier-to-scan planning section.

Plan your visit

📍
Unit R07 The Riverwalk, Durham, DH1 4SL, GB
💷
Mid ranged
🏛
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-12 am
Friday
11 am-1 am
Saturday
10 am-1 am
Sunday
11 am-10 pm

Explore places near Turtle Bay Durham

    See all →

    Unlock the Best of Turtle Bay Durham

    Find tickets, tours with entry, and experiences available for this location.

    Buy tickets

    No tickets available

    Book tours with entry

    No tours with entry available

    Book tours without entry

    No tours without entry available

    Getting There

    Public Transport

    From Durham Train Station, take a 10-15 minute walk along the river towards The Riverwalk shopping centre where Turtle Bay is located. Frequent bus services connect the station to city centre stops nearby. Walking routes are flat and accessible.

    Car

    Driving to Turtle Bay Durham is convenient with several public car parks near The Riverwalk. Expect to pay around £3-£6 for 2-3 hours parking. Note that city centre traffic can be busy during peak times.

    Taxi or Rideshare

    Local taxi services and rideshare options provide quick 5-10 minute rides from Durham city centre or train station. Fares typically range from £5 to £10 depending on time of day.

    For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you

    Restrooms
    Drink Options
    Food Options
    Seating Areas
    Information Boards

    Local tips

    Book ahead for weekend evenings or large groups to secure a spot, especially for the private D’Rum Room upstairs.
    Try the Island Festival Feast sharer for a generous taste of Caribbean favourites, perfect for sharing.
    Visit during happy hour to enjoy 2-for-1 cocktails and sample a variety of tropical drinks.
    Vegetarian and vegan diners will find clearly marked options and knowledgeable staff to assist with choices.
    Sunday Reggae Roasts offer a unique Caribbean twist on traditional Sunday lunches from noon to 6pm.

    Discover more about Turtle Bay Durham

    A Taste of the Caribbean in Durham's Riverside Hub

    Nestled on the banks of the River Wear at The Riverwalk, Turtle Bay Durham brings the spirit and flavours of the Caribbean to this historic city. The restaurant’s vibrant décor, colourful murals, and upbeat reggae tunes create an immersive island atmosphere that contrasts beautifully with Durham’s traditional architecture. Overlooking the river and offering views of Durham Cathedral, this location is perfect for those seeking a scenic dining experience with a tropical twist.

    Diverse Menu with Authentic and Inclusive Options

    Turtle Bay’s menu is a celebration of Caribbean cuisine, featuring signature dishes such as jerk pit ribs, curry goat hash, and jerk grilled halloumi. The restaurant caters thoughtfully to diverse diets, offering vegetarian and vegan options like the tofu buddha bowl and jerk tofu dishes. Sides such as sweet plantain and cheesy jerk fries complement the mains, while sticky ginger pudding with Caribbean rum ice cream rounds off the meal with a rich, indulgent dessert.

    Warm Hospitality and Lively Ambience

    Service at Turtle Bay Durham is known for being attentive, friendly, and fun, enhancing the overall dining experience. Staff members often engage warmly with guests, ensuring personalized recommendations and prompt attention. The restaurant’s lively yet relaxed vibe makes it a popular spot for university students, locals, and visitors alike, with a buzzing atmosphere that suits casual dining, cocktail nights, and group celebrations.

    Events and Private Spaces for Special Occasions

    For larger gatherings, Turtle Bay Durham offers a private upstairs area called the D’Rum Room, accommodating up to 30 guests with its own dedicated bar. This space is ideal for parties, corporate events, or festive celebrations, complete with vibrant reggae beats and a full cocktail menu. Regular promotions like bottomless brunches and late-night cocktail deals add to the venue’s appeal as a social hotspot.

    Signature Cocktails and Refreshing Drinks

    The bar at Turtle Bay Durham is well-stocked with tropical cocktails, including classics like the Zombie and a variety of spiced rums. The happy hour offers 2-for-1 cocktails daily until early evening, making it an attractive destination for cocktail enthusiasts. Non-alcoholic options are also plentiful, with mocktails and homemade soft drinks clearly marked for vegan and vegetarian guests.

    Location and Accessibility in Durham City

    Situated near Framwellgate Bridge and just a short walk from Durham train station, Turtle Bay is easily accessible for locals and visitors. Its proximity to The Riverwalk shopping centre and the Odeon Cinema makes it a convenient choice for pre- or post-movie dining. The vibrant setting and welcoming atmosphere ensure Turtle Bay Durham is a memorable stop for anyone exploring the city’s culinary scene.

    A brief summary to Turtle Bay Durham

    Use Tower Bridge as your starting point for nearby food, family ideas, nightlife, and more local discoveries.

    Plan around the quieter times

    A quick look at seasonal patterns and peak visiting hours.

    Busiest months of the year

    Seasonality

    Busiest hours of the day

    Footfall
    Mobile App
    Get the app

    Your all‑in‑one travel companion app

    Explore expert travel guides, compare and book tours, experiences, hotels, and more—all from the palm of your hand. Download now for seamless trip planning wherever your wanderlust takes you.

    File:Exterior of Durham Cathedral, Durham, UK, KW (15105740633).jpg -  Wikimedia Commons

    More about Durham

    Discover Durham: A city where history, culture, and natural beauty converge, offering a unique and enriching experience for every traveler.

    Tell me more about Durham

    Select Currency

    Choose the currency you want prices to display in.