The Drunken Duck, Durham – 43 Verified Student Reviews 🍻

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infoImage credit: Photo via Google Maps

The Drunken Duck -

Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking

Based on 43 user ratings

91A, Claypath, Durham DH1 1RG, UK

🕐 Opening Hours

Monday: 2:00 PM – 12:00 AM, Tuesday: 2:00 PM – 12:00 AM, Wednesday: 2:00 PM – 12:00 AM, Thursday: 2:00 PM – 12:00 AM, Friday: 12:00 PM – 12:00 AM, Saturday: 12:00 PM – 1:00 AM, Sunday: 12:00 PM – 12:00 AM

💬 What Students Say

The Drunken Duck, located conveniently on Claypath in Durham, is a lively venue that has quickly become a favorite among students from the University of Durham. Known for its welcoming atmosphere and vibrant crowd, it serves as an excellent spot for both casual hangouts and energetic nights out. The venue strikes a perfect balance between being lively and laid-back, making it suitable for a wide range of students looking to unwind after a long day of classes. With a solid reputation for good music, friendly service, and a diverse crowd, The Drunken Duck is a must-visit for anyone seeking a memorable night out in Durham.

When you step into The Drunken Duck, you’re greeted by an inviting atmosphere that feels both relaxed and energetic. Many students rave about the chill vibe that allows for easy conversations while still providing an exciting backdrop for dancing and socializing. The décor adds a stylish touch, enhancing the overall experience without feeling overly pretentious. It’s a place where you can feel comfortable whether you’re there to catch up with friends over drinks or to let loose on the dance floor. Reviewers frequently mention the friendly crowd and the sense of inclusivity, making it a welcoming space for newcomers and regulars alike.

Music is a significant highlight at The Drunken Duck, with many students noting that the tunes are always on point. The venue features a mix of genres that keeps the energy high and the crowd moving. Whether you’re a fan of the latest hits or classic anthems, there’s usually something playing that gets people dancing. The consistent quality of the music contributes to the overall enjoyment of the night, making it a place where students can truly let go and have fun. Many reviews emphasize that the lively atmosphere is complemented by a great selection of drinks, ensuring that there’s something for everyone.

Speaking of drinks, The Drunken Duck is praised for its reasonable pricing. Students appreciate that they can enjoy a night out without breaking the bank. The drinks are described as flowing freely, which adds to the carefree vibe of the venue. While some reviewers note that it might not be the absolute cheapest option in town, they agree that the value for the experience is more than worth it. The combination of good prices and a vibrant atmosphere means students can enjoy their time without constantly worrying about their budget.

The queue and entry experience at The Drunken Duck also receive positive feedback. Many students mention that the queue is manageable and that they rarely have to wait too long to get in. The efficient entry process allows guests to get inside and start enjoying their night without unnecessary delays. This is an important aspect for students who want to maximize their time at the venue. The overall rating for queue management suggests that it’s a well-organized venue that values its patrons’ time.

Students who frequent The Drunken Duck often describe their nights there as consistently enjoyable. Many have shared experiences of meeting new people, dancing, and simply having a good time. The inclusive and friendly atmosphere encourages social interaction, making it an excellent place for students who are looking to expand their social circles. Reviewers frequently highlight the positive energy that fills the venue, which is infectious and makes for a fun night out. It’s clear that The Drunken Duck is a place where students can create lasting memories with friends and new acquaintances alike.

However, while The Drunken Duck has many strengths, it’s important to note a few caveats. Some students have mentioned that it can get quite busy, especially on weekends, which might make it feel a bit crowded at times. While many enjoy the lively atmosphere, others might find it overwhelming if they prefer quieter settings. Additionally, while the pricing is generally regarded as good value, a few reviews indicate that drinks can be on the higher side compared to other local venues. It’s worth considering this if you’re on a tight budget.

Overall, The Drunken Duck stands out as a top choice for students at Durham University who are looking for a lively yet laid-back night out. Its inviting atmosphere, great music, and friendly crowd make it a go-to spot for those wanting to relax, dance, and enjoy good company. Whether you’re looking for a place to kick back with friends or to dance the night away, The Drunken Duck has something to offer everyone. It’s a venue that not only meets but often exceeds expectations, ensuring that every visit is a memorable one.
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✅ What Students Love

  • Inviting and friendly atmosphere perfect for socializing.
  • Great music selection that keeps the energy high.
  • Reasonably priced drinks, making it budget-friendly for students.
  • Efficient queue management with minimal wait times.
  • Inclusive vibe that encourages interaction among patrons.
  • Consistently enjoyable experiences reported by frequent visitors.

⚠️ Things to Note

  • Can get crowded, especially on weekends, which may not suit everyone.
  • Some drinks may be pricier compared to other local venues.
  • Occasional overwhelming energy for those preferring quieter environments.
  • Not the absolute cheapest option in town, but offers good value.

🎯 Best For

Students looking for a fun, energetic night out with friends in a welcoming environment.

💡 Things to Know

  • Dress code is casual; no need to dress up.
  • Best to arrive early on weekends to avoid long queues.
  • Prices are generally reasonable, but check the menu for specific drinks.
  • Music style varies but is always upbeat and dance-friendly.
  • The venue can get busy, so be prepared for a lively atmosphere.

❓ Common Questions

What is The Drunken Duck like?

It's a lively venue with a chill vibe, perfect for socializing and enjoying good music.

How long is the queue?

The queue is generally manageable, with minimal wait times reported.

Is it good value?

Yes, drinks are reasonably priced, making it a good value for a night out.

What music does The Drunken Duck play?

The music is upbeat and varied, perfect for dancing and socializing.

Is there a dress code?

The dress code is casual; feel free to come as you are.

infoImage credit: Photo via Google Maps

Reviews
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Been a few times and it’s been alright. good music and decent drink deals but the queue can be a bit long sometimes .
By user640557 on Apr 3rd 2026
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Good vibe most nights, feels safe and the drinks are cheap. queues aren’t long, so it’s easy to get in and out . the music keeps everyone moving.
By user468232 on Apr 2nd 2026
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Music was on point, and the crowd knew how to have a good time. drinks were reasonably priced which is a bonus. the vibe was chill and the dancing went on until late .
By user252644 on Mar 27th 2026
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Looking back, it was all about having a laugh. the place was laid-back, perfect for just enjoying the night.
By user812918 on Mar 24th 2026
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People were enjoying themselves and the atmosphere was really relaxed. small details that make a night out nice.
By user381498 on Mar 19th 2026
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Always a varied crowd which makes it fun. never had a dull moment there
By user486716 on Mar 17th 2026
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There's a good energy here that makes it a nice spot to hang out. just feels like a better choice than some other places.
By user448998 on Mar 12th 2026
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Went there and it was lively but still laid-back enough to have a good time. would go again
By user479784 on Mar 9th 2026
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Never had a bad night here, it’s always a good one.
By user406496 on Feb 27th 2026
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Real easy to relax here, no stress at all. perfect spot for a laid-back evening.
By user911504 on Feb 25th 2026
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It's a chill spot to hang out with mates. the atmosphere's perfect for catching up without any distractions.
By user280732 on Feb 24th 2026
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The atmosphere’s perfect for a night out without feeling too chaotic
By user466455 on Feb 22nd 2026
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Got in and everyone was really friendly, felt like everyone was just up for a good time.
By user501306 on Feb 20th 2026
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The atmosphere is really inviting and you feel at home right from the start. it’s not just about the drinks, it’s the whole experience.
By user343464 on Feb 19th 2026
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Price is a big plus here. it’s always packed and the atmosphere is really energetic.
By user201570 on Feb 18th 2026
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It feels safe and chill, even when there are loads of people around. that's what matters.
By user621244 on Feb 17th 2026
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Always a good time, can't wait for the next one.
By user158653 on Feb 16th 2026
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Perfect for just grabbing a drink and having a chat with mates. no need to dress up, it's super laid-back.
By user169585 on Feb 15th 2026
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Been there a few times and the energy really gets you moving, especially on busy nights 😅
By user444341 on Feb 14th 2026
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Service was great, super friendly staff. wouldn't want it any other way.
By user655289 on Feb 13th 2026
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The atmosphere was chill and the energy was nice. not a big deal but it made a difference.
By user137596 on Feb 9th 2026
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Stopped by and was really impressed with how friendly everyone was. would come back for sure.
By user314424 on Feb 2nd 2026
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Felt really inclusive from the start, loved being around everyone. by the end, it felt like home.
By user986390 on Jan 27th 2026
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First year was all about having a good time, and the drunken duck made sure of that.
By user666861 on Jan 22nd 2026
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Met loads of cool people and the drinks were solid, no drama at all. just a chill place to hang out.
By user797776 on Jan 19th 2026
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The atmosphere was friendly and just felt more inviting than other places. it’s a nice spot to hang out with mates.
By user701070 on Jan 15th 2026
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Not the cheapest, but every night here is worth it. wouldn't choose anywhere else, really.
By user522673 on Jan 11th 2026
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Drinks were always flowing and the atmosphere was just right all night. never felt out of place or uncomfortable.
By user264373 on Jan 8th 2026
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Plenty of room to unwind without worry but still close enough to keep the good times rolling
By user704500 on Jan 3rd 2026
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A solid time from beginning to end — really enjoyed it.
By user493035 on Dec 31st 2025
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People are just dancing and having a good time, it’s a cool atmosphere.
By user445261 on Dec 26th 2025
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Met loads of people whenever I went, made nights out way more enjoyable. always something happening there
By user404738 on Dec 22nd 2025
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Not the most glamorous spot but it gets the job done. decent tunes and reasonable prices, you know what to expect.
By user669211 on Dec 18th 2025
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Music's solid and the crowd's cool, it's worth the price for a night out. wouldn't want to skimp on it.
By user193805 on Dec 13th 2025
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The drunken duck pulls you in. you think you'll pop in for a bit, but it just keeps you hanging around.
By user764338 on Dec 9th 2025
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The atmosphere just hits right after lectures, it's the perfect way to unwind.
By user993674 on Dec 3rd 2025
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The crowd’s really into it here, makes for a more engaging night out. just feels more lively with everyone joining in.
By user882306 on Nov 28th 2025
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Looking back, drinks were a good deal. helped keep nights out more affordable.
By user722979 on Nov 25th 2025
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First year was way better with the mix of people at the drunken duck. it really brought everyone together.
By user652125 on Nov 19th 2025
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Always have a blast here, leave with a smile and good memories. that's what it's all about
By user128843 on Nov 13th 2025
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Definitely one of the best student nights I’ve been to.
By user143533 on Nov 7th 2025
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Atmosphere is always buzzing, exactly what you want on a night out.
By user491946 on Oct 30th 2025
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I had a wonderful time at The Angel on Crossgate for pre-theatre drinks. The staff was extremely friendly and provided helpful recommendations for things to do and places to eat in Durham. The seating was comfortable, and they offered a fantastic selection of drinks. Despite its appearance from the outside, the bar was surprisingly spacious. The name of the pub is quite fitting and adds to its charm.
By user223762 on Apr 28th 2024