Swan & Three Cygnets, Durham

Riverside Sam Smiths pub with a few different rooms and outdoor seating.

Much as described it’s a Sam Smith’s pub on the end of Elvet bridge next to the river. A multi-room layout although the décor is basic unlike many Sam’s pubs. Old photos and nice leather seating plus Britannia tables and a dark wood counter do not mitigate the white walls with once trendy grey below the dado, the bright lighting or the workmanlike floor. The toilets are in a chilly basement but the OBB is good and not too chilly. It’s cash only, and has a no dogs, no children policy so it’s not all bad.

a comfortable, bright and pleasant Sams pub next to the river. A few rooms off the main bar and an extra bar downstairs that wasn’t in use. OBB was on good form and the service was friendly and efficient. All other customers were drinking alfresco, so inside was extremely quiet, some would say dull.