Market Tavern, Durham

Update – September 2013 This is now branded as a Taylor Walker pub with 6 pumps, including 1 for cider. Beers on included Bullion ( Nottingham ), plus several Wentworth beers, which, I was told, were very much liked by the manager. This is, apparently, the last remaining pub in Durham’s market place. There’s a rather chainy feel to this pub, but the young staff are welcoming and enthusiastic about real ale. At the very least, it’s worth poking your head round the door to see what’s on. Original review – September 2008 Traditional Spirit Group pub in the central Market Square with a fine welcoming atmosphere, but with that slightly generic feel that one might expect from a large chain - owned pub. On the plus side, the pub stocks a good range of real ale - Deuchars IPA, Mordue IPA, black Sheep, Theakstons and Adnams Broadside on my visit. The Mordue IPA - at a surprisingly strong 5.1% OG - was very tasy and is worth looking out for. Staff were friendly and knowledgeable about the beers on offer, which is certainly not always the case in this type of pub. I see that its now in the CAMRA Good Beer Guide for 2009. Food is served at most times and this draws in a wider cross section of customer than most other Durham pubs that I did. It's probably on the "circuit" , but, yes, avoiding Saturday and Sunday nights, I'd do this one again when next in Durham

Attractive pub, with limited seating in the smallish bar area but more tables - and a welcome fire on a cold day - up the steps at the back. Traditional furniture and decor. Six handpumps including two beers from Maxim - Samson and the 5.5% Reserve Porter (£3.20, less 10% Camra discount). Overall, pretty good for a city-centre chain (Original Pub Company) outlet and well worth a stop.

A good traditional pub and not easily missed situated on the Market Sq. Has a good range of ales and it's always worth a look in to see whats on tap. Ales kept well and has friendly staff and regulars. Great pub for a chat, will call again

Traditional pub right in the market square. Four beers on tap that I'd not come across before, although they may be well known locally. Quite narrow, but opens out a bit in the top bar. Didn't try the food, but the menu looks ok if you're just after "pub grub" - mostly sandwiches, burgers, jackets and about six main courses.

Nice town centre wood panelled pub with a good range of ales. Maxim Double Maxim was in good condition. Loads of pump clips stuck around the walls.