Dog-friendly Durham: Restaurants, attractions, pubs & walks

Live in the North East’s historic university town with a pup, or thinking about house sitting as a pet sitter in Durham? Don’t move an inch! In this ultimate guide to dog-friendly Durham, explore the dog-friendly restaurants Durham has to offer, along with walks, attractions, beaches, pubs, cafes and more.

Dog-friendly restaurants in Durham

Whether you’re exploring Durham as a pet sitter or you’ve recently adopted a pup in the city, it’s always a good idea to have a few pet-friendly restaurants in your back pocket. Below, we’ll explore the dog-friendly restaurants Durham has to offer - just be sure to call ahead to check dogs are still welcome, and let staff know you’ll be bringing your canine companion.

Cosy Club

If you’re looking for places to eat in Durham city centre where the food will deliver each and every time, check out Cosy Club. Dogs are welcome in the bar area, where you can stop for breakfast, lunch or dinner and enjoy a global menu that locals love.

Location: Unit R9, The Riverwalk, Durham DH1 4SL

Tango

Self-confessed as Durham’s best burgers, Tango is the place to go in the city centre if you’re in the mood for an indulgent bite to eat made with local ingredients. Choose from simple patties to buns dipped in gravy, and just about any topping you can think of.

Location: 39 Saddler St, Durham DH1 3NU

Whitechurch

You don’t have to walk far to find another restaurant that prides itself on food made with fresh, local produce. Head to Whitechurch with your pup to enjoy farm-fresh vegetables, local meats, boutique roastery coffee, and homemade cakes.

Location: 29 Church Street Head, Durham DH1 3DN

The Curious Mr. Fox

For a restaurant in Durham that goes beyond just letting pups in, check out The Curious Mr. Fox, where your furry friend can enjoy a treat from the dog-friendly menu in the downstairs bar or Ivy Room.

Location: 35a, The Riverwalk, Durham DH1 4PW

Fat Hippo

If you’re on a mission to find the best burgers in Durham, you’ll also need to stop by Fat Hippo. Just up from the marketplace on Saddler Street, you’ll find Fat Hippo - a UK-based burger chain that’s popular with both meat eaters and vegans with a big appetite! Dogs are welcome on selected bar tables, but call ahead and speak to the manager to check they’re available.

Location: 36 Saddler St, Durham DH1 3NU

The Food Pit

In the mood for street food? Always! Head to Framwellgate Waterside to find The Food Pit, and choose from local kitchens that serve up Korean, Greek and American favourites.

Location: 1 Framwellgate Waterside, Durham DH1 4SL

Isla

Book a table downstairs at Isla on North Road - the perfect spot for (dog-loving) foodies to enjoy exciting breakfast dishes of hazelnut-topped French toast, and eclectic sharing plates perfect for dinner with friends. 

Location: 53 North Rd, Durham DH1 4SF

Dog-friendly cafes in Durham

A morning leisurely stroll just isn’t complete without your morning coffee in one hand, and your pup’s lead in the other! Below, explore some of the dog-friendly cafes Durham has to offer, and always check with a member of staff before taking a seat with your dog.

Barking Blends Coffee House

Barking Blends has to be one of the most dog-friendly coffee shops in Durham. A pet shop and cafe in one, stop by this centrally-located coffee house for treats that both you and your furry friend will love. From a dog-friendly afternoon tea to freshly-baked cookies safe for dogs, Barking Blends has pulled out all the stops to make both their human and furry customers feel welcome.

Location: 40 Canterbury Rd, Durham DH1 5PY

Riverview Kitchen

Looking for lunch with a view but don’t want to travel too far? Check out Riverview Kitchen where dogs are welcomed with open arms, and you can choose from hearty English breakfasts, loaded pancake stacks and toasted sandwiches.

Location: 20 Silver St, Durham DH1 3RB

Cafédral

Just a stone’s throw away from the castle is Cafédral - a cosy spot where you can enjoy toasted paninis, fresh scones, homemade cakes and more.

Location: 1 First floor, Owengate, Durham DH1 3HB

Vennels Café

Just up the road from Cafédral is Vennels - a dog-friendly cafe perfect for a pit stop with your furry friend. This adorable hole-in-the-wall eatery is tucked away in a 16th-century building, where you can enjoy freshly-baked scones, quiches, soup of the day and vegetable lasagne. 

Location: 71 Saddler St, Durham DH1 3NP

Chapters

Chapters in Durham is a locally-loved tea room where dogs are welcome in a designated seating area (ask staff where to sit). Pop along to enjoy quality time with your pooch, along with burgers, wraps, salads and of course, a coffee.

Location: 16 Elvet Bridge, Durham DH1 3AA

Broom House Farm Coffee Shop

Fancy getting out of the city for the day? Head to Broom House Farm to enjoy the dog-friendly forest walk, and relax at the outdoor seating area of Broom House Farm Coffee Shop for traditional breakfasts and cakes of the day. Just bear in mind that the coffee shop is closed on Mondays, and open until 3pm between Tuesday and Sunday.

Location: Broom House Farm, Durham DH7 6TR

Dog-friendly pubs in Durham

After a long walk along the River Wear, nothing quite beats a cosy pub, a bite to eat and the company of your furry friend. Below, explore the dog-friendly pubs Durham has to offer - and remember to always check the rules with staff before entering with your pup.

The Stonebridge Inn

After a short walk out of the city centre, you’ll find The Stonebridge Inn - just a stone’s throw away from Neville’s Cross. At this classic pub home to hearty classics and a family, pet-friendly atmosphere, you can enjoy stews, dumplings, pies, sandwiches - and more.

Location: 15 A690, Durham DH1 3RX

Rose Tree Inn

If you’ve been enjoying a stroll out of town along the River Wear, have no fear that a dog-friendly pub is likely around the corner. If your walk takes you anywhere near Shincliffe, veer onto Low Road to find Rose Tree Inn. This dog-friendly pub is nestled on the banks of the river, where you’ll choose from hearty pub classics of pies, leek dumplings and homemade curry.

Location: Low Rd, Shincliffe, Durham DH1 2LY

The Head of Steam 

Looking for somewhere in Durham that’s dog-friendly and trusted by locals for craft beer and ale? Check out The Head of Steam - just a stone's throw from the cathedral, it’s the perfect place to take a break from the hustle and bustle.

Location: 3 North Rd, Durham DH1 4RZ

Ye Old Elm Tree

For locally-brewed stouts, a dog-friendly beer garden and hearty Sunday roasts, head to Crossgate and find this locally-loved pub - Ye Old Elm Tree. 

Location: 12 Crossgate, St Margarets Garth, Durham DH1 4PS

The Half Moon Inn

Step back in time at The Half Moon Inn - a dog-friendly pub in one of Durham’s Grade I listed buildings. Located in the heart of Durham, it’s the ideal pit stop after a day of walkies and sightseeing.

Location: 86 New Elvet, Durham DH1 3AQ

The Woodman Inn

If the sun is shining and you’re in the mood for an afternoon well spent in a local, dog-friendly beer garden, then look no further than this locally-loved pub. In the heart of the city at the top of Claypath bank, it’s a lively spot that welcomes both humans and their furry friends.

Location: 23 Gilesgate, Durham DH1 1QW

The Shakespeare

In the heart of Durham you’ll find The Shakespeare - a charming, historic pub that welcomes dogs and serves up corned beef pie, homemade burgers and real ale. And naturally, beware of the ghost!

Location: 63 Saddler St, Durham DH1 3NU

Dog-friendly attractions in Durham

Durham is a city steeped in history, and you don’t have to miss out with a furry friend in tow. Below, explore some of the dog-friendly places in Durham, perfect for exploring with your pup. And remember - always double check up-to-date rules when planning a day out with your furry friend.

Crook Hall Gardens

On the edge of the city and with the backdrop of a medieval hall is Crook Hall Gardens. Exploring the gardens is one of the most popular dog-friendly things to do in Durham for history buffs. Now a National Trust site, the hall was originally built by Peter del Croke in the first half of the 14th century, and the gardens boast over 700 years of history alone. Explore the walled gardens with your furry friend, and warm up (or enjoy the sunshine) at the dog-friendly cafe. 

Location: Frankland Ln, Sidegate, Durham DH1 5SZ

Finchale Priory

If you’re planning a dog walk along the River Wear, go via Finchale Priory for a dose of local history. You’ll find the remains of a 13-century Benedictine priory - and the best part? Dogs are welcome to roam (on a lead) throughout this Grade I listed building.

Location: Finchale Ave, Framwellgate Moor, Durham DH1 5SH

Durham Cathedral

Did you know that dogs are now allowed inside Durham Cathedral? Yup - you can soak up the Norman architecture and shrine of St. Cuthbert with your furry friend by your side. Just make sure your pup is nice and quiet during any services, and be aware that they won’t be able to join you for a guided tour.

Location: Durham DH1 3EH

Palace Green

For quintessential city views, stroll along Palace Green with your furry friend on a lead, and enjoy iconic sites including Durham Cathedral and Castle - which together form a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Location: Bailey Ct, Durham DH1 3EP

Ushaw Historic House, Chapels and Gardens

Located just south of Langley Park is Ushaw Historic House, Chapels and Gardens. Founded in the early 1800s by priests fleeing the French Revolution, the site is now open to the public and their dogs. Pups are welcome on a lead with restrictions, so double check with a member of staff when planning your route.

Location: Woodland Rd, Durham DH7 9RH

Dog walks in Durham

Let’s face it - your dog just wants to walk! Below, explore some of the most popular dog walks Durham has to offer, and remember to always follow local signage, keeping your dog under control around local wildlife.

Durham Riverside

Walking in Durham with dogs isn’t complete without a stroll along the riverside. The River Wear runs through the city, so it’s perfect if you’re house sitting in Durham, and want to see the city sites while getting some quality time with your new pet pal.

Waldridge Fell Country Park

Just a 10-minute drive north of Durham city centre is Waldridge Fell Country Park - a 284-acre Site of Special Scientific Interest. Explore the wetlands, woodlands and lowland heath with your furry friend, and stick to the North Fell Loop if you prefer a circular walk.

Location: Waldridge, Chester-le-Street, DH2 3SX

Hardwick Park

For a dog walk peppered with local history, plan a day out at Hardwick Hall and explore the woodlands, keeping your eyes peeled for the historic ruins dotted about. Keep your dog on a lead while walking throughout the wider park, and head to the designated off-lead exercise area to let your pup properly stretch their legs.

Location: Sedgefield, Stockton-on-Tees TS21 2DN

North Pennines National Landscape

Explore the northernmost section of the Pennines with your furry friend to truly take a breath of the countryside’s fresh air. North Pennines National Landscape is just an hour’s drive west of Durham city centre - making it a popular day trip for local adventure seekers.

Location: 1 Martin Street, Stanhope, Bishop Auckland DL13 2UY

Hamsterley Forest

As the largest forest in County Durham, it’s clear to see why Hamsterley Forest is so popular with local pet parents. Follow the woodland trails and keep an eye out for The Gruffalo, along with red squirrels, roe deer and badgers. Naturally, keep your dog under control around local wildlife.

Location: Bedburn, Hamsterley, Durham, DL13 3NL

Rainton Meadows Nature Reserve

Just a 15-minute drive from the city centre is Rainton Meadows Nature Reserve - a site home to a network of pathways and over 200 bird species. Keep your dog on a lead to help protect local wildlife, and always pick up after them.

Location: Durham Wildlife Trust, Mallard Way, Chilton Moor, Houghton le Spring DH4 6PU

Dog-friendly beaches in Durham 

Durham’s Heritage Coast is lined with dog-friendly beaches, perfect for a blustery day out with your canine companion. Just be sure to follow the local rules and signage, and be aware that restrictions may change.

Seaham Beach

Blow the cobwebs away at Seaham Beach - an 800-metre stretch of sand located within Seaham Harbour known for its sea glass.

Location: 22 North Rd, Seaham SR7 7AB

South Crimdon Beach

This sandy beach in Hartlepool is loved by locals for its wide stretch of golden sand. Stop by with your furry friend for a scenic day by the coast, and keep your eyes peeled for the Little Tern, which migrates from West Africa.

Location: Hartlepool TS24 0AP

Hendon Beach

Within the historic county of Durham, you’ll find Hendon Beach - which is often associated with Durham Heritage Coast. Explore the rocky beach with your furry pal all year round, and join the English Heritage Coastal Path for a popular dog walking route near the coast.

Location: Promenade, Sunderland SR2 8QR

Tips for pet parents: Important things to know about Durham

• Follow local rules. If you’re new to pet parenting, it’s important to get clued-up on local rules. Ensure you always carry waste bags, pick up after your pup, and don’t let your dog roam off the lead unless you’re in a spot where restrictions don’t apply.
• Keep your dog under control. The county of Durham is home to rare birds, badgers, deer and more - so always keep your pup under close control to avoid disturbing them.
• Plan ahead for your holiday. Durham is bursting with things to do with pups, but what about when the time comes for a holiday? Well as vets agree pets are happier at home, consider connecting with an in-home pet sitter to keep them calm and cared for while you enjoy time away. Click below to learn more about how it works.

Tips for pet sitters

• Get to know the local history. There is a pocket of history everywhere you look in Durham - from the UNESCO World Heritage site, to lesser known gems in the countryside like Hardwick Park, the county’s past certainly isn’t one to be missed.
• Follow advice from pet parents. Keep the pup you’re caring for happy by following the walking and feeding schedule set by their pet parents.
• Dine out with your furry friend. In the city of Durham, there’s a dog-friendly cafe, restaurant or pub on almost every street. So, explore your new locals to get to know the neighbourhood, and always double check the dog rules before heading inside with your new pal.
• Explore Durham through house sitting. So, fancy seeing the historic sites that Durham has to offer with a furry tour guide for company? Sounds like it’s time to get your house sitting adventure started! Click below to find out how it works.

More dog-friendly travel guides near Durham

Thinking about house sitting near Durham, visiting a nearby town with your canine companion, or welcoming a pet sitter soon? Explore our travel guides below for dog-friendly places to visit, along with local tips and advice.

• A guide to dog-friendly Newcastle-upon-Tyne
• Dog-friendly York: Things to do in York with a dog
• A guide to dog-friendly Harrogate, UK
• Dog-friendly Leeds: Things to do in Leeds with a dog
• Dog-friendly Sheffield: Things to do in Sheffield with a dog