The Court take over 150-year-old Durham boozer after makeover

The Court opens its doors on Friday, August 28, offering a “timeless, considered and built to last” hospitality experience seven days a week.

Located inside the former Court Inn, the venue will serve drinks from opening day, with a full food menu launching on September 11.

The team posted a collection of ‘first-look’ photos over the weekend.

A ‘first-look’ at the outside of the new Court Pub (Picture: ‘The Court’ on Facebook) (Image: ‘The Court’ on Facebook)

Taking to social media, The Court said: “The Court is our take on a traditional London establishment, right in the heart of Durham.”

“Dark oak, distressed leather, polished brass, back-lit marble, oil paintings and warm lighting—timeless, comfortable, unmistakably Durham, built to outlast us all.”

The post added: “This building has been home to some amazing businesses over the years and holds memories for the city.

“We wanted to respect that history rather than replace it—restoring, reimagining and elevating a Durham staple for its next chapter.”

The fresh space, in Court Lane, will offer “refined pub classics” and “touches of fine dining,” with a Sunday roast at the centre of its menu.

It will be open daily for drinks, with the kitchen launching two weeks after the grand opening.

The team behind The Court also operates Hibou Blanc, Grey Owl, Ye Old Elm Tree, The Drunken Duck, and The Black Rabbit.

A ‘first-look’ at the outside of the new Court Pub (Picture: ‘The Court’ on Facebook) (Image: ‘The Court’ on Facebook)

Final touches, including artwork, soft furnishings, and plants, are still being completed ahead of the opening.

The new spot has already gained a lot of traction, with residents sharing their excitement.

One user wrote: “Wow! I can’t believe it, what a transformation and a wonderful, traditional feel.

“I thought it was going to be more student accommodation but thank goodness it’s not.”

Another resident said: “Can’t wait to visit. Well done on the transformation.”

One other shared their excitement, stating: “Fantastic transformation, it’s been good to see how the work has developed from the initial strip back to the bare walls, floors and ceilings to the final fixtures, fittings and workmanship that’s gone into bringing it together.”

Another said: “Great news, always remember they used to do the best homemade chips in Durham, not to mention the great food choice. Best of luck.”