Category Archives: County Durham

18/04/26 – Durham

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.

6/7/24 – Darlington and Shildon

I commenced the day in Shildon, renowned as the Cradle of the Railways, where the world’s inaugural steam-powered public railway was established. My visit included a stop at George Samuel Brewery. Subsequently, I proceeded to Darlington, distinguished in the 18th century for its linen manufacturing and as the place where the first Quaker was granted a seat in Parliament. Throughout the day, I explored various establishments in the town dedicated to real ale and craft beer.

10/11/23 – Thornaby, Stockton, Norton, Billingham and Hartlepool

A day out running alongside the rail route from Thornaby to Hartlepool. Starting out visiting “Little Acre Micropub”, moving onto Stockton visiting “Tipsy Turtle”, “Golden Smog” and “Kopper Keg”, a short ride out to Norton calling into “Hydes Bar”, and onto Billingham for the “Village Crossing Bar” and “Crafty Cock”. The last call of the day was in Hartlepool to “Rat Race Ale House”, the first Micropub in the area.