The Bridge Inn, Santon Bridge

A wonderful pub with first class food (the lamb Jennings was superb) and excellent beer, if a tad expensive (�2.90 for the guest ale) but well worth it. Beautiful location next to a river and a handy campsite round the corner. Staff were attentive and helpful even when the place was packed.

15 Jul 2008 13:51

The Victoria Hotel, Durham

I agree with all the positive sentiments posted before, if only to add that this pub is the best place in Durham to get a decent whisky after several decent beers. It is a lovely cosy place where time stands still.

4 Jul 2008 21:38

The Steamboat, South Shields

This is a fabulous pub and well worth the visit. Being in the minority (an under 30 and southern) at this establishment it could have gone the way of many "traditional" pubs I have been in, but everyone there was very welcoming and the bar staff especially. I now use this as my "local", despite being several miles away. The beer is well kept and always tasty, with a variety of guest ales changing regularly and an occasional mini festival to spice things up. Joe the landlord and his dog Betty are always on hand, and the manager Cath has an amazing knowledge of her beers - she has never failed to impress when recommending a beer to me.

4 Jul 2008 21:18