The Boat Club

Located along the banks of the River Wear, the Boat Club pub offers visitors to Durham a quintessential English pub experience with a picturesque twist. This historic establishment has been a beloved watering hole for locals and tourists alike for over a century, and its charming atmosphere continues to draw in crowds from far and wide.

As you approach the Boat Club, you’ll be greeted by the sight of its traditional exterior, complete with hanging baskets overflowing with vibrant blooms in the summer months. Step inside, and you’ll find yourself in a cozy, wood-paneled interior adorned with rowing memorabilia, a nod to the pub’s close ties to the Durham University Boat Club.

One of the biggest draws of the Boat Club is its prime riverside location. On warm, sunny days, visitors flock to the pub’s beer garden, where they can soak up the sunshine and take in the stunning views of the River Wear and the iconic Durham Cathedral looming in the background. It’s the perfect spot to enjoy a refreshing pint of locally brewed ale or a glass of crisp white wine while watching the rowers glide by on the water.

For those seeking a more substantial experience, the Boat Club’s menu offers a range of mouth-watering pub classics, including hearty steak and ale pies, beer-battered fish and chips, and juicy burgers. The kitchen sources many of its ingredients from local suppliers, ensuring that each dish is bursting with fresh, seasonal flavors.

But the Boat Club isn’t just a summertime destination. In the colder months, visitors can cozy up beside one of the pub’s roaring fireplaces, sipping on a warming mulled wine or a rich, full-bodied ale. The atmosphere is always welcoming, with friendly staff and a lively mix of locals and tourists alike.

Whether you’re a Durham resident looking for a relaxing spot to unwind or a visitor seeking an authentic English pub experience, the Boat Club is sure to charm you with its unique blend of history, scenery, and good old-fashioned hospitality. So, next time you find yourself in Durham, be sure to add this riverside gem to your itinerary – you won’t be disappointed.