The Merry Monk - Bishop Auckland

I was here for the 18th birthday and loved the place where she made WKD beers and all sorts of other things.

A great blend a modern/traditional pub. Good atmosphere and good beer also good gin, according to my other half). Wednesday night is open mic night hosted by Neil Gibson. Always an entertaining experience. Go on, give it a try. You'll not be disappointed.

Excellent venue, friendly and helpful staff, good food and drinks, first class.

Can't beat the merry monk on a Saturday night. Its where everyone comes together at the end of night and is the only place open late. Staff are always friendly. Only downside is its very narrow and you feel squashed but it has a big garden, that also has a bar so you can get sorted from outside, which makes up for it. Canny music, alright prices, what more could you want. Does cost £1 to get in which is honestly fair as its the place to be.

Now called The Sportsman. Only toasties available at a very reasonable £2, but no other food and the coffee machine was out of order, otherwise ok.