The Half Moon, Durham – 46 Verified Student Reviews 🍻

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infoImage credit: Photo via Google Maps

infoImage credit: Photo via Google Maps

infoImage credit: Photo via Google Maps

infoImage credit: Photo via Google Maps

The Half Moon -

Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking

Based on 46 user ratings

86 New Elvet, Durham, DH1 3AQ

πŸ’¬ What Students Say

The Half Moon is a well-established pub located in the heart of Durham, making it a prime spot for students looking for a relaxed night out. With its picturesque setting and friendly atmosphere, it has become a favorite among the University of Durham crowd. This pub is not just a place to grab a drink; it's a social hub where students can unwind after a long day of lectures or catch up with friends over a pint. The vibe here is consistently described as chill, making it a perfect place for those who want to enjoy a laid-back evening without the chaos often associated with nightlife. Students frequently mention that the atmosphere is welcoming and inclusive, which contributes to its popularity as a go-to venue for many. The Half Moon is particularly noted for its decent music, which plays a significant role in creating a lively yet relaxed ambiance. Many patrons appreciate that the music is good enough to keep the energy up without being overwhelming, allowing for conversations to flow freely while still enjoying the tunes. The pub serves a diverse selection of beverages, including local ales and craft beers, which are often highlighted in reviews. Students love that the drinks are reasonably priced, making it an attractive option for those on a budget. While some reviews note that the value for money could be better, the overall consensus is that the prices are fair, especially for a student pub. The Half Moon also features TVs, making it a popular destination for watching sports, which adds to its appeal during match days. Students enjoy gathering here to cheer on their favorite teams, further enhancing the communal feel of the venue. The pub is generally clean and well-maintained, with patrons commenting on the tidy toilets, which is a plus for any student venue. This attention to cleanliness helps to create a more enjoyable experience for everyone. The crowd at The Half Moon is typically a mix of students and locals, contributing to a vibrant atmosphere. It tends to get busy during the weekends and on student nights, but many reviews indicate that the queues move quickly, so you won't be left waiting long to get in. This efficient service is appreciated by students who want to maximize their time socializing rather than standing in line. One of the standout features of The Half Moon is its ability to cater to various moods and occasions. Whether you're looking for a casual drink after classes, a place to celebrate with friends, or simply a comfortable spot to relax, this pub has you covered. The energy can get lively at times, especially during peak hours, but it never feels overcrowded or rushed, allowing for a pleasant experience throughout the night. However, while The Half Moon has many positives, there are a few downsides to consider. Some reviews mention that it might not be the fanciest spot in town, which could be a drawback for those looking for a more upscale night out. Additionally, while the atmosphere is generally fun, it can vary depending on the crowd, leading to mixed experiences on certain nights. Despite these minor caveats, The Half Moon remains a solid choice for students seeking a reliable pub experience. It’s the kind of place where you can expect a good time, regardless of the occasion. Overall, The Half Moon is best suited for students who appreciate a friendly, relaxed atmosphere with affordable drinks and good music. If you're looking for a place to hang out with friends, watch sports, or simply enjoy a night out without the frills, this pub is definitely worth a visit.
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βœ… What Students Love

  • Chill and relaxed atmosphere, perfect for hanging out with friends.
  • Reasonably priced drinks, making it budget-friendly for students.
  • Good selection of local ales and craft beers.
  • Clean and well-maintained environment, including tidy toilets.
  • Quick-moving queues, especially on busy nights.
  • Inclusive crowd with a fun vibe, ideal for socializing.

⚠️ Things to Note

  • Not the fanciest spot, which may disappoint those seeking upscale venues.
  • Atmosphere can vary depending on the crowd, leading to mixed experiences.
  • Some students feel that the value for money could be improved.
  • Can get busy on weekends, which might not suit everyone.

🎯 Best For

Students looking for a chill pub experience with affordable drinks and a friendly atmosphere.

πŸ’‘ Things to Know

  • The Half Moon is popular for watching sports, so expect a lively crowd during big games.
  • It's a good idea to arrive early on weekends to avoid long queues.
  • The pub has a relaxed dress code, so feel free to come as you are.
  • Keep an eye out for special student nights for even better drink deals.

❓ Common Questions

What is The Half Moon like?

The Half Moon is a popular student pub known for its chill vibe, affordable drinks, and good music.

Is it good value?

Yes, students find the drinks reasonably priced, making it a budget-friendly choice.

When do students go to The Half Moon?

Students typically visit during the evenings, especially on weekends and student nights.

What kind of crowd can I expect?

You can expect a mix of students and locals, contributing to a vibrant and inclusive atmosphere.

Is there a dress code?

The dress code is relaxed, so you can come as you are.

infoImage credit: Photo via Google Maps

infoImage credit: Photo via Google Maps

infoImage credit: Photo via Google Maps

infoImage credit: Photo via Google Maps

Reviews
1 of 47
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People chatting and laughing around me made it feel like one big gathering of old mates. everyone seemed to know each other, creating this tight-knit uni vibe that was contagious.
By user239538 on Apr 23rd 2026
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Popping by The Half Moon more frequently was a pleasant surprise as I settled into Durham 😊. Initially, it was just another pub to me, but it quickly grew on me with the familiar faces and warm chats with locals. There's something comforting about its welcoming vibe when you're trying to find your footing in a new place.
By user281182 on Apr 18th 2026
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Staying at The Half Moon worked out great because it felt welcoming right from the start. the staff had that friendly, unobtrusive way that means you can just unwind without any fuss. plus, the central location is a game-changer when you want to head back quickly after a relaxed evening, which is exactly what you need when mornings come too early.
By user353354 on Apr 13th 2026
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Bartenders at the half moon really know how to handle the crowds, even on busy nights. they’re quick with orders and always manage to keep things chill. it's good to see familiar faces behind the bar who seem to enjoy the nights as much as we do.
By user402245 on Apr 10th 2026
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Half moon's got this effortless charm to it, mostly thanks to its laid-back crowd and comfortable seating. music isn't too loud, just enough to keep the energy up without being overwhelming. drinks are fairly priced too, which is a bonus when you're juggling student budgets.
By user125902 on Apr 6th 2026
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Definitely would return to half moon for another relaxed night. atmosphere's laid-back with a good mix of locals and students. everything feels pretty welcoming, plus the staff's friendly without being overbearing.
By user483486 on Apr 5th 2026
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Feels like everyone in Durham ends up at The Half Moon eventually. it's a mash-up of students and locals, and you always overhear the most interesting conversations or run into someone from your course πŸ˜…
By user917917 on Apr 1st 2026
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Found the perfect spot at The Half Moon for unwinding. tables near the window get a lovely breeze in summer, and you can people-watch while sipping a pint. music was on point too 🎢
By user952036 on Mar 26th 2026
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Adjusting to The Half Moon has been like finding a new mate that you didn't know you needed. at first, it felt a bit overwhelming with so many faces and conversations happening at once, but soon it became the place where I felt most at home. it's become my go-to spot to unwind and have a laugh after stressing over uni deadlines.
By user451213 on Mar 23rd 2026
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Nothing beats watching a live band with a crowd of uni mates at the Half Moon. the energy when the place is packed is unbelievable, especially when everyone joins in singing 🎡. maybe it's the old charm of the place, but you just feel connected to everyone around.
By user754111 on Mar 18th 2026
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Walking into the half moon always feels like bumping into an old friend πŸ˜…. the warmth hits you right away, and the chatter makes the stress of uni drift off.
By user385771 on Mar 16th 2026
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Expected a typical Durham pub experience, but The Half Moon really surprised me with its lively crowd and genuinely welcoming vibe. wandered in thinking it'd be a quiet spot, but ended up staying way longer, chatting with new people and just having a laugh.
By user643854 on Mar 11th 2026
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Staff here somehow always remember your face, which is both surprising and kind of makes the Half Moon feel like a familiar hangout. even after a long stretch without dropping in, they recall names and orders pretty easily. it's these small gestures that make it a comfortable spot for unwinding.
By user677288 on Mar 9th 2026
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Didn't expect the half moon to be quite so welcoming. thought it'd be another typical student pub, but the staff were genuinely nice and the atmosphere felt like a home away from home. prices weren't bad either.
By user359627 on Feb 27th 2026
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Crowded on weekends with not enough seating for groups. it's a bit of a scramble to find a spot to relax, which can get annoying when you just want a chill evening.
By user264218 on Feb 10th 2026
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Wandered in just as a local band started playing 🎢, and it totally shifted the mood. everyone was chatting, the music was decent, and it felt like the kind of evening you stumble upon rather than plan. turned a solo pint into a fun night with people i didn’t even know.
By user355183 on Feb 3rd 2026
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Felt a comforting welcome right away when walking into The Half Moon, with a mix of students chatting and laughter filling the air. it's one of those places where you can be yourself without any pretenses, which is honestly refreshing. the familiar vibes had a certain warmth to them, making it feel like a second home 😊
By user884569 on Jan 28th 2026
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Stepping into the half moon felt like walking into a warm embrace. the ambiance wrapped around me, filled with lively chatter and smiles that made the evening instantly feel special.
By user865899 on Jan 23rd 2026
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People were chatting and laughing together, creating a warm buzz that made the pub feel inviting.
By user740696 on Jan 20th 2026
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Was there on a Thursday, and what really stuck out was the way everyone just seemed to know each other. gave off this genuine, friendly vibe that you don't always get at places around town. prices were reasonable, especially for a student trying to stretch their budget.
By user400453 on Jan 15th 2026
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Always feels like you're stepping into a local secret rather than a typical student pub. it's the kind of spot where familiar faces mix with newcomers, and every visit reveals a new corner to appreciate.
By user862161 on Jan 12th 2026
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Someone once told me this place was where old meets new and it totally fits. spotted a mix of locals and students, and the service was pretty laid-back and chatty.
By user369589 on Jan 9th 2026
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Someone said the music was pretty decent and i have to agree, it definitely kept us entertained. the place just has this easygoing feel and most people seemed fairly approachable.
By user462169 on Jan 4th 2026
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Definitely would go back to the half moon because the atmosphere can be surprisingly lively on the right evening. most nights have a good mix of people, but thursdays seem to have a special energy that's hard to resist. it feels like everyone is just more relaxed and up for a laugh.
By user470492 on Jan 1st 2026
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Grab a table outside if the weather's nice; it's a great spot to catch up with mates and chill.
By user969741 on Dec 27th 2025
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Felt like a more welcoming vibe compared to other bars in town. the staff seemed genuinely interested in making sure everyone had a good time, which isn’t always the case in other spots.
By user833740 on Dec 22nd 2025
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Catching up with some uni mates at the half moon, i noticed how the whole place seemed to buzz with laughter and chatter. the chill vibe made us feel right at home, and i almost forgot my deadline worries πŸ“š
By user332683 on Dec 19th 2025
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Service can be a bit on the slow side, especially when it's busy with the usual crowd. guess that's just part of the charm, but it'd be nice to get a pint a little quicker sometimes.
By user870711 on Dec 14th 2025
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Getting a table here can be tricky when the student mob descends, especially if you're just popping in for a quick drink before morning training. it adds a bit of stress to the otherwise chill vibe, but maybe that's part of its charm.
By user651098 on Dec 9th 2025
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Snagged a spot by the window with a mate, and the laughter from the table next to us was contagious. didn't even realize a few hours had slipped by until we noticed the sky growing darker outside.
By user313440 on Dec 3rd 2025
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Had a better vibe than most places around Durham with loads of students buzzing
By user814547 on Nov 29th 2025
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Love stopping by The Half Moon midweek to unwind from studies. it's got that perfect balance of energy and chill, making it an ideal spot to catch up with mates between lectures and assignments.
By user961268 on Nov 25th 2025
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Found myself unexpectedly charmed by the live music 🎢. thought it'd just be a quick pint, but the atmosphere drew me in like a magnet. it's one of those places that seem to have a little magic to it, hard to leave when you're having a good time.
By user102261 on Nov 20th 2025
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Noticed the place was buzzing with other students, all chatting and relaxing as if it was their second living room. it felt like most people knew each other and it made for a really chill environment to unwind from the usual uni stress.
By user755217 on Nov 14th 2025
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Noticed the crowd's a mix of uni students and locals, which makes for some fun conversations. felt like a decent way to meet people outside my course. everyone's really chill, adding to the laid-back vibe
By user232751 on Nov 7th 2025
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A lively night at the half moon is all about the crowd,everyone just seems to be in good spirits, making it perfect for a proper laugh with mates
By user532873 on Oct 31st 2025
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Walking in, i didn't expect it to be so inviting, despite its prime location. there's a comforting warmth to the place that instantly draws you in. it's one of those spots where you feel the stress from uni just melt away, which is exactly what i needed.
By user762848 on Oct 25th 2025
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Sat by the fireplace with some mates, and it felt proper cosy. a mix of students and locals makes for some interesting chats, which I appreciated. honestly, just a nice place to unwind after feeling overwhelmed with coursework.
By user418107 on Oct 22nd 2025
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Bit cramped during peak hours, making it tough to find a spot unless you're really lucky. would be perfect if they had a bit more room to spread out
By user106964 on Oct 18th 2025
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Staff at the half moon have a knack for balancing the buzz with just the right amount of attention. compared to other pubs in durham, they're pretty laid-back, which i love. you won't feel like they're hovering but if you need something, they're quick to help without any fuss.
By user352247 on Oct 15th 2025
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Settling into Durham wouldn’t have been the same without the Half Moon's welcoming vibe every weekend.
By user942267 on Oct 12th 2025
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Ended up becoming my go-to spot for unwinding. at first, wasn't sure it would be my scene, but it's got this chill vibe that just grows on you. always leave feeling like i've had the perfect night out.
By user270976 on Oct 7th 2025
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Sat outside on a warm evening, we laughed over drinks while the cathedral bells rang softly in the background πŸŒ™.
By user551463 on Oct 1st 2025
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Never thought I'd find such a chill spot that handles its crowd so well. even during peak hours, there's this comforting buzz 🌟 that somehow doesn't overwhelm. great for having a drink and letting your mind wander a bit once you're done with the day's chaos.
By user713704 on Sep 26th 2025
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Staff at the half moon are genuinely welcoming, which makes the whole experience even better. they always seem ready for a chat, adding to the friendly vibe that students love.
By user189411 on Sep 20th 2025
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Catching the golden glow of the warm lights as evening settles in just makes the atmosphere feel absolutely inviting. everyone around you seems to be in their own world, sharing stories or just enjoying the moment, and honestly, it just makes you want to stay a little longer. 😊 the hum of conversations mixed with the gentle clinking of glasses adds to the charm that’s hard to resist.
By user210932 on May 2nd 2024
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Even on busy nights, finding a spot wasn't too difficult, and that made all the difference. nothing beats grabbing a pint there and running into familiar faces from lectures or tutorials, which adds a comforting sense of familiarity to the whole experience.
By user221893 on Dec 30th 2023