County Durham: 7 of the best beer gardens with a view

Summer has well and truly arrived with many more heat waves expected to take over the region in the next few months.

But what is better than getting outside to make the most of the sunshine across County Durham after a long gloomy winter, and yet still being able to keep hydrated?

From walled gardens to sea views, it’s time to grab your family and friends and head down to some of the finest hospitality offering ice-cold beverages and sparkling fizz to quench your thirst.

To help you decide where to venture next, here are a selection of some of the best beer gardens with a view in the county, according to their Google reviews – each location has a minimum rating of 4.0.

Great British Life: Whether it's by the River Wear or County Durham countryside, there's many places to enjoy a pint Whether it's by the River Wear or County Durham countryside, there's many places to enjoy a pint (Image: Getty)

Some of the best beer gardens with a view in County Durham

The Rose and Crown

Location: Romaldkirk, Barnard Castle, DL12 9EB

Rating: 4.6

A visitor left this review: “A delightful lunch outside on the garden tables. Met with friends. Booking advised. Dogs welcome outside and in the bar.

“I had bream and chips and mushy peas. Delicious. Caring owners (I believe) who served us. Friendly and attentive. We shall definitely be back for dinner one evening.”

Read more reviews on Google.

The Bay Horse

Location: 45 The Green, Hurworth-on-Tees, Darlington, DL2 2AA

Rating: 4.7

One customer wrote: “We know this is a popular bar/restaurant, but called in on the off chance of a table. We were seated in the garden and chose two course from the market menu. Wood pigeon snd remoulade, followed by pork tenderloin and black pudding.

“So satisfying and delicious. No room for dessert. Wish we weren't driving as the only thing that could have improved it was a glass of fleurie. The yummy homemade bread was perfect.”

Read more reviews on Google.

Black Horse Beamish

Location: Red Row, Stanley, DH9 0RW

Rating: 4.3

This person wrote: “Went to a wedding here in the marquee. Really nice place, stunning views all round.

“Beer garden is nice to sit in too, get served at your table so can just relax.

“Didn't have any food from the restaurant but some others did and the fish was massive and smelled really nice!”

Read more reviews on Google.

Hardwick Hall Hotel

Location: Hardwick Hall Hotel, Sedgefield, TS21 2EH

Rating: 4.4

A pleased reviewer commented: “Absolutely beautiful! Stunning views and lovely grounds. Owners are welcoming and the staff are very professional. Peaceful and tranquil.”

Read more reviews on Google.

The Crow’s Nest

Location: East Shore Village, North Road, Seaham, SR7 7XR

Rating: 4.1

This user said: “This is an amazing pub! We found it by chance last year and now it is one of our favorites. Good food, lovely staff, and the unforgettable view of the North Sea. From the friends from Italy, Marco and Thatiana.”

Read more reviews on Google.

South Causey Inn

Location: South Causey Inn, Stanley, DH9 0LS

Rating: 4.5

This person posted: “This was my 1st visit today. Weather was glorious, so we sat outside for a quick drink. Beautiful location. Felt like I was in the middle of nowhere and on holiday. Will definitely be back soon.”

Read more reviews on Google.