News Beat
5 Best Sunday Roasts in County Durham and Darlington
We’ve sifted through the most recent reviews, comments and praised plates of 2025 to find out exactly where diners think the best Sunday dinners are right now, according to diners on TripAdvisor.
The Green Tree, Tudhoe (Spennymoor)
The Green Tree has had another strong year, with diners repeatedly praising its hearty portions and proper old-fashioned cooking.
One reviewer summed it up perfectly: “It’s the kind of roast you’d expect your gran to make, loads of veg, huge Yorkshire puddings and meat that just falls apart.”
Visitors throughout 2025 have echoed that sentiment, saying the pub consistently delivers roast dinners that feel home-cooked rather than mass-produced.
Another customer wrote: “Every time we go, the plates are full, the food is hot, and the staff treat you like regulars even if you’re not.”
The Green Tree’s friendly service is mentioned as often as its food, helping keep it one of the most well-loved Sunday spots in the region.
The Copper Beech, Neasham Road, Darlington
The Copper Beech remains one of Darlington’s most praised pubs for value, quality and atmosphere.
Diners continue to rave about its roasts, with one visitor calling it “the best Sunday dinner in Darlington for the price, nothing fancy, just cooked properly.”
Others have highlighted how well the venue handles busy Sundays, with a reviewer adding, “Even when it’s packed, the food comes out hot, and the staff don’t stop smiling.”
The pub’s Yorkshire puddings get a special mention in several 2025 reviews, with one customer admitting they were “nearly the size of the plate.”
Many families say it’s become their go-to Sunday tradition thanks to the warm welcome and reliable cooking that never feels rushed.
The Three Horseshoes, Running Waters (Durham)
Customers in 2025 have kept The Three Horseshoes near the top of the list, praising both the quality of the roast and the sense of tradition that comes with eating there.
One reviewer said, “It feels like stepping back into the proper pub Sundays of years ago, huge plates, loads of gravy and no corners cut.”
Another diner commented on the consistency, writing, “We’ve been four times this year and every roast has been just as good as the last. You always know what you’re getting, and that’s why we keep going back.”
Its rich history and homely interior only add to the experience, making it a favourite for families and locals looking for a dependable Sunday treat.
The Burtree Inn, Darlington
The Burtree Inn continues to stand out for its inclusive menu and generous portions, with customers repeatedly praising the way the pub caters for everyone.
One recent reviewer said, “The vegan roast was just as good as the meat one, you don’t feel like an afterthought here.”
Another commented that the pub “never fails on service, the staff go above and beyond even when it’s heaving.”
Several 2025 reviews highlight the value for money, with one diner writing, “Portions are massive, and the quality is top-notch, easily the best roast we’ve had in Darlington this year.”
The Burtree has become a favourite for big family get-togethers thanks to its consistency and warm atmosphere.
The Old Farmhouse, Darlington
The Old Farmhouse has become one of the most talked-about alternatives in 2025, especially for those wanting a slightly more polished Sunday experience.
Reviewers frequently praise its presentation, with one diner saying, “It looks restaurant-quality but still tastes like a proper pub roast.”
Another review highlighted the portion sizes and atmosphere: “We went with a big group, and everyone loved it. Loads of food, really tasty, and the staff couldn’t do enough for us.”
Customers also appreciate the venue’s warm, rustic look, with its layout making it an ideal choice for families and gatherings.
