Darlington Dr Inks re-opened beer garden after major revamp

Dr Inks, on Coniscliffe Road, has reopened its outdoor space under new ownership, with a dramatic redesign featuring bold colours, upgraded facilities and new entertainment features.

The garden has been completely reworked following the removal of a dividing wall to create one large outdoor area, with the space levelled and fitted with pink Astroturf.

Look inside the brand new beer garden that has re-opened at Dr Inks following a major revamp (Image: DR INKS DARLINGTON)

New furniture has been installed and painted in blue, alongside blue and pink décor throughout the venue.

The revamp also includes a new sound system, additional televisions, improved lighting with floodlights and festoon lighting, upgraded heaters, and brand new guest WiFi both inside and outside.

Look inside the brand new beer garden that has re-opened at Dr Inks following a major revamp (Image: DR INKS DARLINGTON)

A large Dr.inks mural has also been added to the space, described by the owners as a key visual feature that must be seen in person.

Scott Barratt and Tom Cullen owners of Dr.inks which has reopened (Image: SARAH CALDECOTT)

The reopening comes after Scott Barratt, 27, from Darlington, and Thomas Cullen, 26, originally from Richmond, took over the venue earlier this year in March and began an extensive refurbishment shortly after gaining the keys.

Dr Inks first opened in 2018 and quickly became a popular nightlife spot known for its vibrant atmosphere and beer garden. However, in recent years, its popularity had declined and the venue was placed on the market.

A before and after in the Dr Inks Darlington beer garden following the major revamp (Image: DR INKS DARLINGTON)

Look inside the brand new beer garden that has re-opened at Dr Inks following a major revamp (Image: DR INKS DARLINGTON)

Look inside the brand new beer garden that has re-opened at Dr Inks following a major revamp (Image: DR INKS DARLINGTON)

Speaking about the reopening and plans for the venue, Scott Barratt said: “When I used to work here, I thought I would always want to run it, but left for better opportunities. When I saw the price slash for it on sale, I knew now was the time to start.”

He added: “We want to take it back to how it was a couple of years ago. We are completely closing the garden to fully renovate it so that in the near future we can have garden parties.”

Scott also said: “We want people to come back and give us a try as it will be a completely different vibe now.”