Finding a place for some good hearty food and a thirst-quenching drink can be difficult if you want to bring your dog along.

But we all know that when our fluffy companions are welcome in a local pub (as we tuck into a Sunday lunch or stop off for a pint on an evening walk), it’s a great trip out for all involved.

That’s why we have chosen a selection of dog-friendly pubs to visit in County Durham according to their Tripadvisor reviews – each rating has a minimum of 4.0.

Some of the best dog-friendly pubs in County Durham

Rose Tree Inn

Location: Low Road West, Shincliffe, DH1 2LY

Rating: 4/5

One person left this review on Tripadvisor: "What can I say what a lovely dog friendly pub. If you want to eat in a pub where your dogs are made to feel as welcome as we were. Went for my sons birthday a party of 7 with 2 dogs. Booked the night before. Excellent table service which is a rarity these days. Food was lovely, drinks as you want them staff very attentive. Great find and will be back keep up the good work."

Ye Old Elm Tree

Location: 12 Crossgate, Durham, DH1 4PS

Rating: 4.5/5

The Northern Echo: Is your local pub in County Durham dog-friendly?Is your local pub in County Durham dog-friendly? (Image: Getty)

This visitor wrote: “What a brilliant place, a must-if in Durham. Superb staff, excellent service, dog friendly, cosy and welcoming. An excellent choice of beers and other drinks.”

Cross Keys Country Pub

Location: Hamsterley, Bishop Auckland, DL13 3PX

Rating: 4.5/5

A customer said: “Excellent family friendly pub, we had Sunday lunch and it was beautiful.

“We had our 2 dogs with us and they were more than welcome. Warm welcome by friendly staff. We will defiantly Be back.”

The Kingslodge Inn

Location: Waddington Street, Flass Vale, Durham, DH1 4BG

Rating: 4/5

One user posted: “I stayed for three nights and ate at the pub several times during my stay. The staff is super friendly and the food was delicious.

“My room was clean, bed was comfy, and the location close to city center is superb.

“Dogs are allowed and I enjoyed seeing other patrons’ pups while I was there.”

The Green Tree

Location: 41 Tudhoe Village, Spennymoor, DL16 6LE

Rating: 4.5/5

This person commented: “Looked on searchforsites for a dog-friendly motorhome stopover for the night.

“What a find. Food was excellent, proper portions as well. Staff were excellent and very dog friendly.

“Staff could not do enough. Food was very reasonably priced. Locals were very friendly as well. Could not fault the place.”

The Duke of York

Location: Fir Tree, Crook, DL15 8DG

Rating: 4.5/5

This visitor wrote: "Great find, arrived late afternoon and found they served food all day. Had burgers with onion rings, absolutely delicious. Staff very friendly and welcoming, dog friendly too. Will be back."

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Derwent Walk Inn

Location: Ebchester Hill, Consett, DH8 0SX

Rating: 4/5

This customer shared: “Pub was nice and clean. Large wooden floor area with tables where I could take my dog.

“Lovely woman behind the bar recommended the Cantonese crispy chicken and it was really nice. Food came quickly.

“Reasonable price. I liked it.”