Why County Durham Is a Wonderful Place for Festive Lunching

County Durham is the sort of place where winter feels like a warm embrace. With historic cities like Durham itself, charming market towns and cosy country pubs dotted across rolling countryside, the county comes alive in December with festive menus, decorations and hospitality that make every lunch feel like a celebration. Whether you’re after a traditional Christmas roast with all the trimmings, a relaxed festive pub lunch with the family, or a special Christmas Day meal with loved ones, the region has something for every festive occasion.

In the guide below you’ll find 10 of the best places in County Durham serving Christmas or festive lunches this season — places that take bookings and, in most cases, are friendly for families and children.

1. The County Hotel – Christmas Festive Lunches & Christmas Day

Where: Durham City – central and elegant.
Why It’s Special: The County Hotel’s December festive programme includes classic Christmas lunches with roast turkey and seasonal mains, with a choice of sittings and a set price per head. Deposits are required to secure bookings, and menus often include vegetarian and alternative options too.
What to Expect: Traditional festive lunch menus throughout December, with a cosy yet classy dining room; bookings often require deposits and full pre‑payment closer to the date. Children are welcome and children’s pricing is usually part of the Christmas offering.

2. Radisson Blu Hotel – Józef’s Riverside Restaurant

Where: Durham waterfront.
Why It’s Special: For a classic Christmas Day lunch in style, the Radisson Blu’s Józef’s Riverside Restaurant offers a festive set lunch with prosecco on arrival, novelties at the table and a gift for children — all against riverside views.
What to Expect: Seasonal three‑course lunch with wine; festive extras like crackers and children’s gifts. This event often sells out, so early booking is essential and pricing reflects the seasonal occasion.

3. South Causey Inn – Christmas Lunch & Sunday Carvery with Santa

Where: South Causey, near Stanley.
Why It’s Special: A firm festive favourite in County Durham, South Causey Inn turns into a winter wonderland during December with multiple festive dining options — from Sundays with carvery and a visit from Santa to celebratory lunches and events.
What to Expect: Traditional Christmas carvery and festive menus; Santa grotto experiences after lunch; seasonal atmosphere and live entertainment on selected days. Booking ahead is strongly recommended.

4. The Oak Barn Restaurant & Bar – Festive Lunch All December

Where: Near Stockton Road, Durham.
Why It’s Special: The Oak Barn offers festive three‑course lunches throughout December, with classic roasts, vegetarian options, Christmas crackers and a warm bar atmosphere.
What to Expect: Festive lunches available across December, perfect for family gatherings, friends, work celebrations and festive meet‑ups; bookings advised as spaces fill up fast.

5. The Stonebridge Inn – Classic Pub Roasts & Festive Meals

Where: Durham City, on the A690.
Why It’s Special: A highly rated gastropub known for traditional British food and a relaxed pub environment — ideal for festive lunches with kids and family groups.
What to Expect: Seasonal roast lunches, hearty starters and classic desserts; expect a festive menu in December and bookings recommended around peak times.

6. Cosy Club – Fun Festive Dining with a Relaxed Vibe

Where: Durham’s Riverwalk.
Why It’s Special: A stylish and welcoming choice for festive lunch that balances comfort with flavour — perfect for families and groups who want seasonal dishes without overly formal surroundings.
What to Expect: Festive lunch specials and holiday‑themed dishes alongside core menu favourites; great for relaxed Christmas lunches and pre‑Christmas gatherings.

7. FIIK – Upscale Festive Lunch Option

Where: Durham City, Elvet Bridge.
Why It’s Special: A fine dining restaurant with an excellent reputation, FIIK can be a beautiful choice for a more refined festive lunch experience, especially for adults or special occasions.
What to Expect: Seasonal and contemporary cuisine — book early as tables for festive periods often go quickly.

8. isla – Contemporary Seasonal Lunches

Where: North Road, Durham.
Why It’s Special: Part of the popular Coarse group, isla offers seasonal menus in a stylish setting — good for festive sharing plates or family lunches in early December.
What to Expect: Seasonal plates and a lively dining environment; book ahead for December weekend lunches.

9. The Rib Room at Ramside Hall – Festive Feasts & Roast Lunches

Where: Ramside Hall Hotel, Durham.
Why It’s Special: A hotel restaurant with robust seasonal menus and festive roasts — ideal for Christmas festivities that feel a little more special.
What to Expect: Festive lunch menus that suit families and groups; often part of Ramside Hall’s Christmas dining schedule.

10. Three Horseshoes – Traditional Pub Lunch, Warm Holiday Welcome

Where: Leamside, Houghton le Spring.
Why It’s Special: A classic and highly reviewed local pub with hearty British meals — great for festive lunches without fuss, especially around Christmas market days or holiday catch‑ups.
What to Expect: Seasonal Sunday roasts and festive menu items; laid‑back and family‑friendly, with bookings recommended.

What to Expect from Festive Lunching in County Durham

Booking & Deposits

Most of the restaurants and pubs above require advance bookings for December lunchtime and Christmas Day services, and many take deposits or full pre‑payments for Christmas Day events to secure your table. Booking early — often as soon as menus are announced — is key to securing the date and time you want.

Kid‑Friendly Dining

While fine‑dining venues may be more adult‑oriented, many pubs and hotel restaurants tailor children’s menus or smaller portions for festive lunches, and family‑friendly events like South Causey Inn’s Santa lunches are designed with children in mind.

Menu Styles

Expect a range from traditional roast turkey with all the trimmings to modern seasonal cuisine — including vegetarian and vegan alternatives. Many venues offer fixed‑price festive menus with two or three courses, and festive extras like crackers and seasonal cocktails.

FAQs

Q: Are there many places in County Durham serving Christmas Day lunch?
Yes — select hotels and larger restaurants in Durham offer Christmas Day lunch menus with set courses and festive trimmings. These are often booked well in advance, so early reservation is strongly recommended.

Q: Should I book early for Christmas lunch in County Durham?
Definitely. Many venues open bookings in autumn and see Christmas tables filled quickly, especially for Christmas Day and pre‑Christmas weekend lunches.

Q: Will restaurants cater for dietary requirements?
Most restaurants now provide vegetarian or vegan options and can cater for allergies, but it’s wise to confirm when you book so the kitchen can prepare accordingly.

Q: Are these lunches suitable for children?
Many pubs and family‑friendly restaurants offer kids’ menus or lighter festive portions. For Santa‑themed events or family‑centric dining, places like South Causey Inn are particularly good.

Conclusion — Enjoy a Festive Feast in County Durham

From classic hotel Christmas Day lunches to cosy pub roasts, festive Sunday lunches with Santa and seasonal sharing menus for groups, County Durham’s dining scene offers something for every Christmas celebration. Book early, check menus and dietary options, and choose venues that suit your group’s style — whether that’s a relaxed pub lunch or a more refined festive experience.

If you’re hosting guests in County Durham over the festive period and want a stress‑free hosting experience, Pass the Keys Durham can take care of your bookings, guest communications and turnover — so you can enjoy Christmas in this beautiful corner of England without the hosting hassle.