THOUSANDS of people living in the North East will be celebrating their Irish roots for St Paddy's Day on Thursday.

St Patrick's Day, an annual event that honours Saint Patrick and Irish heritage, takes place on Thursday, March 17.

The religious day marks the traditional death date of Saint Patrick, the foremost patron saint of Ireland.

From sporting shamrock themed attire to playing traditional Irish tunes, it's a great reason to support one of the many Irish bars in the North East and enjoy a pint of Guinness.

Here's a small guide to Irish bars and pubs across Teesside and County Durham. 

Teesside

O'Harkers Irish Bar, 3 Macmillan Chambers, Prince Regent Street, Stockton

This Irish bar in Stockton serves a mix of drinks including draught ale and whiskeys from Ireland.

One reviewer from Liverpool, home to one of the largest Irish communities in England, said: "Really good little bar, great pints and a very friendly bar man."

The Dubliners, Bridge Street, Thornaby

This cosy, traditional pub in Thornaby has been told it serves "the best Guinness in Teesside", according to the owners.

As part of its St Patrick's Day offer, customers can buy 3 pints of Guinness and get a fourth one for free.

Alternatively you can try out the pub's baby Guinness shots at three for £5.

O'Connells, 29-41 Bedford Street, Middlesbrough

This Irish tavern not only serves traditional British pub food and drink but has live bands, karaoke, open-mic nights and TV sports.

Describing the atmosphere at O'Connells, one customer said: "Traditional Irish pub beer and food at a good price."

Sherlocks, 7 Baker Street, Middlesbrough

This is a small bar specialising in real ale, wines, craft beers and fine spirits.

Expect anything from Belgian or fruity beers to flavoured ciders.

One customer said: "Great micropub. Good cask and keg selection, cosy interior, good atmosphere and friendly staff."

County Durham

JM Foley's Irish Bar, 16 North Road, Durham

This Irish bar in Durham is celebrating St Paddy's Day with live music from the O’Blimey’s, food and pints. It claims to have "the best Irish Whiskey menu in town".

One review reads: "Excellent live music, brilliant atmosphere. Give it a try."

Finnian's, 7 Trafalgar Street, Consett

The owners of Finnians describe their venue as a "friendly, lively bar in Consett" with cheap drinks and a good atmosphere.

Reviewing their experience, one customer said: "Big range of beers and cracking juke box."

--

Keep up to date with all the latest news on our website, or follow us on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.

You can also follow our dedicated County Durham Facebook page for all the latest in the area by clicking here.

For all the top news updates from right across the region straight to your inbox, sign up to our newsletter here.

Have you got a story for us? Contact our newsdesk on newsdesk@nne.co.uk or contact 01325 505054