The 7 best pubs and bars in Durham

Durham may be a small city, but its pub scene is surprisingly varied. There are centuries-old inns for a quiet pint, craft beer bars hidden down side streets, and live music venues where “just one drink” can turn into an evening of discovering new music with friends.

The best part? Many of them are close enough together that you can find your favourite without trekking across the city. Whether you need somewhere for post-lecture drinks, a pub quiz with your housemates, or a proper night out that doesn’t involve a club, these are some of the best pubs in Durham for students.

The Dun Cow

Found on Old Elvet, The Dun Cow is the sort of pub that makes Durham feel every bit as historic as the prospectus promised. Pitched as Durham City’s oldest pub, parts of the Grade II-listed building date back to the 15th century. Inside, small front snug, wooden beams and traditional interiors have remained refreshingly untouched.

This is not the place for flashing lights or an extensive cocktail menu. Instead, come here for real ale, homemade bar snacks and a quieter catch-up with friends. Its proximity to the university also makes it convenient for post-lecture drinks. And you don’\t get all that history without a few ghost stories too; the Dun Cow is one of Durham’s most haunted buildings. Spooky.

Ghouls and ghosts aside, if you’re looking for somewhere cosy, characterful, and completely unpretentious, look no further than the Dun Cow.

The Shakespeare

Located on Saddler Street, The Shakespeare sits right in the middle of Durham’s busiest student streets. Yet, once you step inside, it feels far removed from the cafés and shops surrounding it.

The pub is known for its low ceilings, wooden floors, and secretive spirits bar on the second floor. So-called the Shakespeare because it was the favourite drinking spot of actors in the 19th Century, it is allegedly Durham’s most haunted pub. Whether you believe the ghost stories or not, there are certainly a fair few “Spirits” behind the bar! … Sorry.

The Shakespeare attracts a mixture of students, locals, and tourists. They serve a changing selection of cask ales, currently host a popular Sunday quiz. It’s a good choice when you want somewhere central without sacrificing the atmosphere of a proper pub.

The Half Moon Inn

The Half Moon Inn is already well known among Durham students, and with good reason. Sitting on New Elvet, close to Elvet Bridge, and the university, it is ideally placed for spontaneous drinks after seminars, or informal society meetings.

Inside, the Grade I-listed Tudor building retains plenty of traditional character. Outside, however, is where the pub really comes into its own. Its large courtyard stretches towards the River Wear, and has several screens showing live sport, making it particularly popular on match days.

The atmosphere is usually lively without feeling too polished, and the mix of students and locals prevents it from becoming another generic student bar. Just remember that it is a drinks-led venue, and does not currently serve food. Eat beforehand unless you want crisps to become dinner.

The Holy GrAle

If your knowledge of beer begins and ends with ordering whichever lager is cheapest, The Holy GrAle might change that. Tucked away on Crossgate, this independent craft beer bar has rotating taps alongside fridges filled with cans and bottles. The selection changes regularly, so there is usually something new to try, whether you already know your IPAs from your stouts, or need to ask the friendly bar staff for help.

Despite its specialist drinks menu, the Holy GrAle avoids feeling exclusive or overly serious. The atmosphere is welcoming, the staff know their beer, and the vaulted basement hosts occasional live music. Fancy performing yourself? The holy GrAle hosts very popular monthly open mic nights, too. It’s ideal for a smaller night out when you want to try something different; a true hidden gem.

The Head of Steam

Hidden in Reform Place, just off North Road, The Head of Steam is another strong option for craft beer fans. Alongside local real ales, its bar includes draught and bottled beers from breweries around the world, as well as cocktails, wine and spirits for those who prefer.

Unlike several traditional Durham pubs, The Head of Steam also has a substantial food menu. Burgers, pizzas and gyros make it the perfect spot for society socials or house meals, while its affiliation with Vegan Friendly UK means plant-based diners aren’t limited to chips.

Spread across two floors, with an outdoor balcony and terrace, it works equally well for lunch, casual drinks, or a full evening. They have something going on all year round, too. Catch their monthly pub quizzes, student fundraisers, or even a low-key theatre production from the comfort of your table.

Ye Old Elm Tree

Further up Crossgate, Ye Old Elm Tree is one of Durham’s oldest inns, dating back to at least 1600. Fortunately, the welcome is considerably warmer than its age might suggest.

With traditional décor, a log fire and a sheltered outdoor patio, it is particularly inviting during Durham’s colder months, which, realistically, covers most of the academic year. The pub attracts locals, visitors, and students alike, creating a relaxed community atmosphere that can be difficult to find in busier city-centre venues.

There is also a popular Wednesday quiz, alongside acoustic music nights, and a strong selection of ales. Ye Old Elm Tree was named the local CAMRA City Pub of the Year in both 2023 and 2024, so its safe to say that its appeal comes highly recommended.

The Angel

Does your playlist lean towards rock, punk or alternative music? If so, then The Angel deserves a place on your list.

Also located on Crossgate, The Angel is Durham’s resident alternative music pub. It has live bands on Saturday nights, a jukebox, pool table, and a large beer garden hidden behind the building. There are also quizzes and other events throughout the week, so it is worth checking the pub’s social media before visiting.

The music may be loud, but the atmosphere is famously friendly. It is a welcome change from venues built around the same chart playlist and offers a genuine home for Durham’s alternative crowd.

So that completes the list: seven of the best pubs in Durham for students. From riverside sport at The Half Moon, to live music at The Angel, the city has much more to offer than one generic student night out. The difficult part is no longer finding a good pub, but convincing everyone in the group chat to agree on just one!