The Dun Cow, Durham – 62 Verified Student Reviews 🍻

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The Dun Cow β€” student bar photo

infoImage credit: whatpub.com

The Dun Cow -

Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking

Based on 62 user ratings

The Dun Cow, 37 Old Elvet Durham DH1 3HN

πŸ’¬ What Students Say

The Dun Cow Inn is a quintessential British pub located in the heart of Durham, making it a popular spot for students from the University of Durham. With a history dating back to the 12th century, this establishment is not just a place to grab a drink; it’s a cultural landmark that reflects the heritage of the area. The pub's traditional decor and inviting ambiance create a cozy atmosphere, making it an ideal place for students to relax after a long day of lectures or to enjoy a night out with friends. The Dun Cow stands out for its combination of historical charm and modern-day vibrancy, appealing to both locals and visitors alike.

One of the key aspects that students enjoy about The Dun Cow is its friendly and welcoming vibe. Many reviews highlight the warm atmosphere, where patrons feel at home and can easily engage with one another. The pub is known for attracting a diverse crowd, which adds to the overall experience. Whether you’re just stopping by for a pint or planning a longer stay with friends, the relaxed environment makes it easy to unwind and enjoy the company of others. Students often mention that the crowd is lively and fun, contributing to a memorable night out.

When it comes to drinks, The Dun Cow offers a wide range of traditional ales and spirits that are reasonably priced, making it a great choice for students on a budget. While some reviews note that it might not be the cheapest option available, many agree that the quality of the drinks and the overall experience justify the prices. Students appreciate the variety of drink options, which enhances their enjoyment of the evening. The pub is also known for its good deals, making it easier for students to have a great time without breaking the bank.

The atmosphere at The Dun Cow is often described as lively, especially as the night progresses. Many students enjoy the fact that it can get busy, particularly on weekends, creating a vibrant energy that is perfect for socializing. The pub has a reputation for being a popular spot for students, especially after lectures or during the weekend. Patrons frequently mention that the vibe improves as the night goes on, and the place often feels buzzing with excitement. This makes it a great choice for those looking to meet new people or simply enjoy a night out with friends.

What truly sets The Dun Cow apart is its blend of historical significance and a modern pub experience. The charming architecture and traditional decor provide a unique backdrop for a night out, while the friendly staff and relaxed atmosphere make it an inviting place to hang out. The pub is often praised for its cleanliness and well-maintained facilities, adding to the overall positive experience. Students frequently express their appreciation for the staff, who are noted to be friendly and accommodating, further enhancing the welcoming vibe of the venue.

However, no venue is without its downsides. Some reviews indicate that The Dun Cow can get a bit chaotic during peak times, which might not be ideal for those looking for a quieter night out. While many enjoy the lively atmosphere, others may find it overwhelming at times. Additionally, the pub can become quite busy, leading to longer wait times during peak hours. This might be something to consider if you're planning to visit during a particularly busy night.

Another potential drawback is that while the drink prices are reasonable, they are not the absolute cheapest in town. Some students have pointed out that although the quality is good, it might not be the best option if you’re looking to save every penny. However, many agree that the overall experience makes the cost worthwhile, especially when considering the vibrant atmosphere and the chance to meet new people.

In summary, The Dun Cow Inn is a fantastic choice for students looking for a lively and welcoming British pub experience. With its historical charm, friendly crowd, and decent drink options, it has become a favourite hangout for many. Whether you're looking to relax after classes or enjoy a night out with friends, The Dun Cow provides a memorable experience that captures the essence of student life in Durham. It’s a place where stories are made, and good times are had, making it an essential stop for any student in the area.
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βœ… What Students Love

  • Warm and inviting atmosphere that's perfect for socializing.
  • A diverse crowd that adds to the fun and excitement.
  • Reasonably priced traditional ales and spirits.
  • Friendly staff who enhance the overall experience.
  • Clean and well-maintained facilities.
  • Lively vibe, especially on weekends, making it a popular spot for students.

🎯 Best For

Students looking for a lively and welcoming pub atmosphere to unwind and socialize.

πŸ’‘ Things to Know

  • Check the opening hours to plan your visit, especially on weekdays.
  • Arrive early on weekends to secure a good spot, as it gets busy.
  • Look out for drink deals to make your night more affordable.
  • The atmosphere can change throughout the night, so be prepared for a lively vibe.
  • It's a great place to meet new people, so don’t hesitate to strike up a conversation.

❓ Common Questions

What is The Dun Cow like?

The Dun Cow is a historic British pub with a warm atmosphere, perfect for students looking to unwind and socialize.

Is it good value?

While it may not be the cheapest option, students find the drink quality and overall experience worth the price.

When do students go to The Dun Cow?

Students often visit after lectures and on weekends when the atmosphere is lively.

What drinks are available?

The pub offers a wide range of traditional ales and spirits, with reasonable pricing.

Is it a good place to meet new people?

Yes, the friendly crowd and inviting atmosphere make it easy to socialize and meet new friends.

The Dun Cow β€” student bar photo

infoImage credit: whatpub.com

Reviews
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brilliant night out
By user753086 (Durham) on Aug 13th 2026
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Loved every second
By user165780 (Durham) on Aug 6th 2026
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Try the snacks, they're tasty
By user530351 (Durham) on Jul 29th 2026
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Great atmposhere with lovely conversations unfolding naturally.
By user315125 (Durham) on Jul 24th 2026
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great little pub vibe
By user555757 (Durham) on Jul 19th 2026
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great drink selection here
By user562091 (Durham) on Jul 14th 2026
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The staff was brill, friendly welcoming
By user361071 (Durham) on Jul 8th 2026
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Bartenders really make you feel welcome
By user868594 (Durham) on Jul 3rd 2026
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Friendly and attentive service makes it a fave.
By user744141 (Durham) on Jun 28th 2026
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Cheap pints as well
By user123678 (Durham) on Jun 23rd 2026
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Friendly atmposhere and good vibes all round.
By user580985 (Durham) on Jun 18th 2026
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chilled place to relax
By user320479 (Durham) on Jun 13th 2026
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Nice mix of people 🍻
By user404966 (Durham) on Jun 8th 2026
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Great spot to relax after uni with friends.
By user652245 (Durham) on Jun 3rd 2026
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The lighting was perfect for chilling out with mates.
By user436811 (Durham) on May 26th 2026
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really good place.
By user325739 (Durham) on May 21st 2026
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amazing crowd, loved it
By user222299 (Durham) on May 16th 2026
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Music thats played here really sets the mood nicely.
By user164470 (Durham) on May 11th 2026
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Such friendly chats with the bartenders every time.
By user926767 (Durham) on May 5th 2026
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Had a cracking laugh with mates here last weekend.
By user123455 (Durham) on Apr 28th 2026
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great place for mates
By user734005 (Durham) on Apr 20th 2026
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Had such a laugh with my mates
By user644752 (Durham) on Apr 14th 2026
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great place to meet
By user888002 (Durham) on Apr 10th 2026
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cheap pints and good vibes
By user876318 (Durham) on Mar 31st 2026
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nice beers on tap
By user246122 (Durham) on Mar 30th 2026
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Cheap pints available all day.
By user328306 (Durham) on Mar 25th 2026
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Tips for students: the drinks are affordable here.
By user453530 (Durham) on Mar 20th 2026
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really good value for your money
By user244142 (Durham) on Mar 16th 2026
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Good space for groups
By user515199 (Durham) on Mar 11th 2026
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The staff were really lovely and welcoming.
By user506881 (Durham) on Mar 10th 2026
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always a good place to be
By user250512 (Durham) on Feb 28th 2026
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Variety of seating options, loved the booths.
By user289413 (Durham) on Feb 10th 2026
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Definitely a place to visit when you're in the area.
By user169163 (Durham) on Feb 3rd 2026
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love a pub like this
By user604582 (Durham) on Jan 28th 2026
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friendly staff and crowd
By user339002 (Durham) on Jan 23rd 2026
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Perfect spot to unwind after classes or on weekends.
By user116650 (Durham) on Jan 20th 2026
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Proper buzzin pub night
By user484663 (Durham) on Jan 15th 2026
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free wi-fi is handy for students to use.
By user850066 (Durham) on Jan 12th 2026
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Enjoyed the great selection of local beers.
By user958185 (Durham) on Jan 9th 2026
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easy to meet new peeps
By user892195 (Durham) on Jan 4th 2026
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freindly atmposhere really adds to it here
By user803832 (Durham) on Jan 1st 2026
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Good choice of drinks 🍻
By user102436 (Durham) on Dec 27th 2025
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enjoyable vibe overall
By user395460 (Durham) on Dec 23rd 2025
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cheap drinks great vibe
By user837270 (Durham) on Dec 19th 2025
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Great atmposhere, loved it deffo
By user105683 (Durham) on Dec 14th 2025
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Arrive early to grab good seats.
By user767837 (Durham) on Dec 10th 2025
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always liked it here
By user700943 (Durham) on Dec 3rd 2025
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Really enjoyed the comfy seating area
By user330116 (Durham) on Nov 29th 2025
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Meeting new people was easy and chill with live music.
By user297211 (Durham) on Nov 25th 2025
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friendliness was really noticeable the whole time.
By user575295 (Durham) on Nov 20th 2025
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Great beers on tap here
By user509742 (Durham) on Nov 14th 2025
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A lovely place to relax with friends for the evening.
By user294686 (Durham) on Nov 7th 2025
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cozy pub great atmosphere
By user829078 (Durham) on Oct 31st 2025
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reliable staff and comfy
By user700416 (Durham) on Oct 25th 2025
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friendly bar and good pint
By user487605 (Durham) on Oct 22nd 2025
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Get there early on weekends.
By user846444 (Durham) on Oct 19th 2025
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cheap pints love it
By user971950 (Durham) on Oct 15th 2025
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solid pub vibes
By user740461 (Durham) on Oct 12th 2025
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friendly faces all around
By user490078 (Durham) on Oct 8th 2025
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happy hours great for students
By user785421 (Durham) on Oct 2nd 2025
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The music playlist was really enjoyable all evening.
By user577596 (Durham) on Sep 26th 2025
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good place for the group
By user469373 (Durham) on Sep 21st 2025
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such a cozy place
By user903416 (Durham) on Dec 28th 2023