Three County Durham pubs and bars, including one that is in a "hidden" spot are among 250 “highly commended” across the UK, all of which have been shortlisted in the National Pub & Bar Awards 2026.
The annual celebration in the hospitality industry showcases a wide range of venues from across the whole of the country by naming 94 sites as the best in their respective counties.
Now, the 2026 county winners, regional winners and overall National Pub & Bar of the Year will be revealed at the grand final taking place on June 10 in London.
Tristan O’Hana, editor of Pub & Bar magazine, which hosts the event, commented: “Our bigger and better format that debuted in 2025 was such a success, we can’t wait to roll it out again this year.
“The fact that the celebrations last from the long Easter weekend, when we celebrate this year’s County Nominees, right up until the awards night at the beginning of summer is no less than this wonderful industry deserves.
“We just want to do what we can to spread the word about these brilliant businesses.”
3 County Durham pubs and bars among best in the UK
The three pubs across the county shortlisted at the National Pub & Bar Awards 2026 are:
- Slug & Lettuce, Durham - Walkergate
- The Head of Steam - North Road
- The Royal George - Peterlee
On its website, The Head of Steam details: “Hiding in Reform Place, just off North Road is the Oasis that is the Head of Steam Durham.
“Just a stone’s throw from the famous Durham Cathedral and the popular Riverwalk it’s the perfect spot after a day of site seeing.
“The Head of Steam’s celebrated selection of exceptional local craft beer and real ale as well as boasting breweries from all around the world, an array of cocktails, spirits and environmentally conscious wine as well as hot drinks. “
For foodies, The Head of Steam offers a “wide variety” of menu options, from pizzas and gyros to “amazing” branded burgers.
Guests can also choose from a variety of loaded fries such as cheeseburger or chilli cheese and sharing plates including nachos, corn ribs and mozzarella sticks.
The pub continues: “We are proud to be recognised and affiliated with Vegan Friendly UK.
“The venue has a beautiful outside balcony and terrace area, which is the perfect place to enjoy your favourite tipple, away from the hustle and bustle of the city.”
But what do customers think? The Head of Steam currently boasts a “very good” 4.3/5 Tripadvisor rating based on more than 300 reviews.
A recent visitor commented: “We always enjoy Head of Steam because the beer is good and the bar is very inviting, most of all the service is 5 star especially from Emily and will!”
“Looking forward to my next visit.”
Another praised: “The Head of Steam Durham is hands down one of the best spots in the city.
“Great atmosphere, brilliant selection of cask and craft beers (plus loads of Belgian options), and always something new to try.
“The food is spot on as well — perfect with a pint. Staff are friendly and on the ball, even when it’s busy.
“Free pool on Mondays and Tuesdays is a bonus too. Always a solid choice in Durham.”
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Other North East pubs named among best in the UK for 2026
Other pubs across the North East, including in Northumberland and Tyne and Wear, also nominated in this year’s National Pub and Bar Awards, are:
Northumberland
- The Highlander Ponteland
- The Kirkstyle Inn and Sportsman's Rest
- The Pele Tower Corbridge
Tyne and Wear
- Fire
- Flight Club Newcastle
- Manahatta
Is your local shortlisted among the UK’s best pubs and bars? Let us know in the comments below which venue you are rooting for.
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