Tripadvisor’s best spots for Sunday dinner in County Durham

Based on thousands of first-hand customer reviews, diners consistently praise tender meats, crisp roast potatoes, rich homemade gravy and generous portions, all served in relaxed, often characterful surroundings.

From historic market towns to rural village pubs, these are the County Durham Sunday roasts customers say are well worth planning your weekend around.

The Joiners Arms, Hunwick

Location: 13 South Vw, Hunwick, Crook DL15 0JW

Opening Times: Thursday: 5-11pm | Friday 12-3pm & 5-11pm | Saturday: 12-11pm | Sunday 12-10.30pm

Rating: 4.7

The Joiners Arms in Hunwick is frequently highlighted by Tripadvisor users as one of the county’s standout spots for a traditional Sunday roast.

Holding a rating of around 4.6 out of five, diners regularly praise the quality and consistency of the food, with roast beef and pork both described as “perfectly cooked” and “full of flavour”.

One reviewer said it was “one of the best Sunday dinners we’ve had in County Durham”, pointing to crisp roast potatoes, generous Yorkshire puddings and rich, well-seasoned gravy.

The friendly service and welcoming village pub atmosphere are also commonly mentioned, with many customers recommending booking ahead due to its popularity.

The Three Horseshoes, Barnard Castle

Location: 7 Galgate, Barnard Castle DL12 8EQ

Opening Times: Monday – Sunday: 10am-midnight

Rating: 4.8

In the heart of Barnard Castle, The Three Horseshoes has built a loyal following for its Sunday roasts, earning strong praise from Tripadvisor reviewers.

Customers frequently highlight the quality of the ingredients, with one reviewer calling it “a proper Sunday roast done right”.

Crispy roast potatoes, generous portions and rich gravy are recurring themes in reviews, alongside friendly staff and a warm, traditional pub atmosphere.

Its central location also makes it a popular choice for visitors spending a Sunday exploring the historic market town.

The Bay Horse Middridge

Location: 42 South Side, Middridge, Newton Aycliffe, DL5 7JD

Opening times: Monday – Sunday: 12pm-10.30pm

Rating: 4.5

The Bay Horse in Middridge is another venue frequently praised by Tripadvisor reviewers for delivering a consistently excellent Sunday roast.

Diners regularly highlight the quality of the meat, with roast beef and lamb both described as “tender” and “full of flavour”, while crisp roast potatoes and generous Yorkshire puddings are also commonly mentioned.

Several reviews single out the rich, homemade gravy and well-cooked seasonal vegetables, noting that portions are generous without compromising on quality.

The relaxed village pub setting and friendly, attentive service add to its appeal, with many customers describing it as a reliable choice for a traditional Sunday lunch worth travelling for.

The Rose & Crown, Romaldkirk

Location: Romaldkirk, Barnard Castle DL12 9EB

Opening Times: Monday – Sunday: 12-2.30pm & 6-8.30pm

Rating: 4.2

Often described as a “hidden gem”, The Rose & Crown in Romaldkirk attracts glowing Tripadvisor reviews for its Sunday lunch offering.

With a rating of around 4.6 out of five, diners regularly comment on the consistency and quality of the food.

One reviewer praised the roast lamb as “perfectly cooked and packed with flavour”, while others highlight homemade Yorkshire puddings and carefully prepared vegetables.

The traditional setting and attentive service are also frequently mentioned, making it a popular choice for special occasions as well as relaxed family meals.

Other County Durham favourites

Several other venues across the county continue to impress Tripadvisor users with their Sunday roasts.

The Black Bull in Frosterley is often praised for its generous portions and traditional cooking, receiving regular compliments for its roast beef and welcoming atmosphere.

Elsewhere, reviewers have also highlighted The King’s Head in Lanchester and The Fox & Hounds in Cotherstone as reliable choices for a well-executed Sunday dinner.