Shakespeare Tavern

About Shakespeare Tavern

The Shakespeare Tavern is one of Durham's most characterful old pubs, tucked into a narrow, centuries-old building on Saddler Street as it climbs from the Market Place towards the cathedral. Small, dimly lit and full of atmosphere, it was historically a haunt of nineteenth-century theatre actors and patrons, which gave it its name, and it trades heavily on its reputation as the most haunted pub in the city, with plenty of ghost stories attached to its snug rooms. It is a proper drinkers' pub rather than a dining venue, with well-kept real ales and a fiercely loyal local following.

Its tiny footprint and historic feel make it a favourite for anyone wanting old Durham character rather than modern polish, and it can fill up quickly on evenings and weekends. It is very central, moments from the cathedral and castle, so it slots easily into a wander around the peninsula. Opening hours can vary, so it is worth checking before a special trip.

Featured in These Guides

Blog posts and guides that feature Shakespeare Tavern.

Quiz Nights in Durham: Where to Test Your Trivia

A neighbourly guide to Durham's pub quizzes, from smartphone rounds on Saddler Street to snug little £1 nights. Quiz nights move, so always confirm the current time with the pub.

The Oldest Pubs in Durham

Durham's historic pubs run from a 15th-century inn to a famously haunted tavern and a Victorian time capsule. A tour of the oldest and most characterful pubs in the city.