The long way round

I spent a day exploring Durham, starting at The Waiting Room on the station platform, then moving between a mix of historic pubs and newer micropubs across the city. Each place had its own character, from centuries-old buildings like Ye Old Elm Tree and The Dun Cow to more recent additions like The Holy GrAle and Fram Ferment. Along the way, I enjoyed a range of well-kept ales and friendly welcomes. Whether tucked into quiet corners, lively bars or hidden spots by the river, every stop offered something different, making it a varied and enjoyable crawl through Durham’s rich pub scene. https://micropubadventures.co.uk/2026/04/18/18-04-26-durham/

A good collection of pubs compiled by Durham CAMRA. Beginning at the Bridge Hotel, visitors can explore Durham's riverside pub scene, with views of the historic city and its iconic cathedral. The Colpitts Hotel offers a traditional drinking experience, leading to the characterful Old Elm Tree, which has likely witnessed generations of Durham's social history. The Water House provides a contemporary contrast to the city's ancient architecture. The Head of Steam brings a modern railway-themed atmosphere, while the Market Tavern and Bishops' Mill continue the journey through Durham's diverse pub culture. The historic Half Moon Inn and Victoria Inn complete the crawl, each venue telling a different story of this remarkable city. From riverside views to ancient traditions, these pubs capture the essence of Durham - a place where medieval heritage and contemporary life blend seamlessly, all under the shadow of its magnificent cathedral and prestigious university. https://camraangle.sst.camra.org.uk/documents/DurhamCamrabrochure.pdf - thanks to camradurham.org.uk for the crawl - please note the Shakespeare Tavern now looks to be permanently closed

Starting at Bishops' Mill, visitors begin their journey through Durham, a city steeped in medieval history and academic charm. The Drunken Duck offers a playful contrast to the city's scholarly atmosphere, leading to the traditional Market Tavern where local life and university culture intersect. The Swan & Three Cygnets, with its heraldic name, provides a connection to Durham's rich symbolic heritage. The historic Half Moon Inn whispers stories of centuries past, while the Victoria Inn continues the theme of traditional British pub hospitality. The crawl concludes at the Dun Cow, a classic pub that embodies the spirit of Durham - where ancient stone buildings, the magnificent cathedral, and the prestigious university create a backdrop of unparalleled historical significance. The Old Elvet Bridge by David P Howard, CC BY-SA 2.0, https://commons.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?curid=119901853