Reviews in County Durham

Far too many people booked for Mother’s Day, not enough staff and obviously letting more take aways in as well. Waited ages for our table and were then asked to leave the table after less than an hour, we hadn’t even ordered desserts! Food was ok, not keen on veggie options but plenty of vegetables

My mother and I attended Hall Garth Hotel for an afternoon tea as part of Mother's day treat. The food was absolutely delicious. The cheese scones were freshly baked and really fluffy. The desserts were divine, especially the square one that tasted of cinnamon. My only gripe is that there should be more selection of sandwiches. The staff were friendly and very helpful. We would definitely coma back again sometime.

Mixed review. First time visiting. Good value. Limited choice for younger adults. Best dishes were the prawn starter and garlic mushrooms. Good portion sizes. Well presented. However, steak wasn't the best cut. We got one rump and one sirloin and couldn't tell the difference, both thin cheap cuts. Not cooked to our request probably due to thickness of the steaks. Downside was the overall service. Started off well, got seated straight away and drinks ordered. Food was ordered promptly too, however we waited a good 45mins for starters to arrive and we had to enquire about them as a couple came in after us and got food before us. As soon as we had finished the starters the mains came out straight away. However, once we had finished the mains no waitress was around to ask for bill etc....then waitress eventually came 20mins later then we asked for the bill, she then took some plates away and then disappeared for another 10mins only to come back and say we had to pay at bar. Don't think we will be returning.

Lovely food and staff, a regular treat for us as only a couple of miles away from where we live.

Had a great time, the service was amazing, lovely ambience , the food was lovely all at a great price, definitely going again soon Highly recommended ManyThanks

Had a lovely relaxing visit to the Revive spa, really enjoyed the outdoor area and afternoon tea in the conservatory was delightful, would definitely visit again soon

Food was lovely service quick polite friendly staff

We had a lovely afternoon tea at Hall Garth Hotel. The staff were really friendly and looked after us well. The only thing I would have asked for us a few more sandwiches.

Food excellent. The service was really good and quick .the staff very polite and helpful.

Expensive soa day as only hot tubs, no pool. Sauna that was barely warm. Food was ok, bit lacklustre. Had two salmon sandwiches whuch were fine and two with just lettuce and tomato, no filling?? I have food issues so asked for dietary requirements, but expected some meat filling in the sandwiches. Will not be going back.

Tucked, this charming little Italian restaurant is all about warmth, great service, and truly delicious food. The staff were welcoming and attentive, making sure drinks arrived promptly and ensuring that even our picky little eaters (aged 9 and 5) left with happy tummies. What really set this place apart was the personal touch—they happily let us bring a birthday cake for my mother-in-law and went above and beyond, bringing it out with candles, joining in with a celebratory song, and even serving it with ice cream for us all to enjoy. It’s these thoughtful details that make a meal memorable. The food itself was fantastic—authentic, flavourful, and served with care. If you’re after a cosy, friendly spot where service and hospitality shine, this is the place. A true hidden gem in Durham that we’ll be recommending to all our friends and family

1st class food and service

I have been following posts on Social Media regarding The Farmers Arms and as we were going to be nearby I booked a table for myself and my husband. Booking was easy to do on line and we received a warm welcome. A lovely quirky atmosphere with lots to see inside. We ordered from the 3 course for £10 menu and we weren’t disappointed. Thoroughly enjoyed out starters and mains but we weren’t too full for desert. Staff kindly offered to box up our desert choices for us to take away. I had a very generous white wine which was lovely. We will definitely be returning

Great food, nice setting, great value.

As usual up to its high standards. Very well presented and cooked to perfection. Nice service and sweets boxed to take home. I always hope they will go from strength to strength

Afternoon tea was lovely. So many sandwiches and were delicious. The service was excellent and lovely atmosphere.

My partner Ed and I visited the Red Alligator for Sunday Lunch yesterday. We has often passed by on the way to Bishop Auckland and agreed we should pay a visit. What an amazing experience it turned out to be. My partner suffers with COPD which affects his breathing and mobility. We were given a well positioned table and the staff could not have been more helpful. The Carvery had an excellent choice of meats and accompanying vegetables (all obviously homemade) plus the staff helped get us and our meals safely to our table. The meal was very tasty, with generous portions, followed by a good choice of desserts. We finished feeling very full and satisfied despite only having the standard size portions. Personally, I have never seen such large Yorkshire Puddings, I'm glad I declined a second one ! My partner can be a picky eater but he cleared both his Sunday Roast and dessert plates completely (a recommendation in itself !). We will be returning to the Red Alligator and can recommend the establishment. Thank you all for your food and service.