The Head of Steam – Durham

This is more of a modern pub with a nice selection of beers. Unfortunately, the first British beer on tap that I chose, was out. Even worse, the second beer that I chose was out. I settled for the beer my husband ordered because I knew they would at least have it. His beer must have been sitting in the hose for a while because it was very warm, even by British standards. My beer was nice so I poured it into his to cool it. Not the best experience, but not the worst, plus I have faith that it was probably just a case of bad timing on our part since it was the middle of the day when minimal folks are around. The selection of international beers was very good and they even had a coaster from Stone Brewery which is in my hometown, San Diego, CA! Overall a cool place to hang out, but could have used a little friendlier service.

Great pub for a few drinks with friends and even some food.
They have a great selection of beers from local to beers from far and wide. The décor shows this with beer logos everywhere. It is definitely refreshing to see somewhere in Durham city centre with a lot of variety.
I was especially impressed by the variety of gin. They had local Durham Gin, which is definitely worth trying as well as a few others.
The bar staff were friendly and it was quite busy while I was in (and this was during the day) so beware as it may be a lot busier evenings and weekends.
This definitely somewhere I’ll be hanging out more often and sampling many of the different beers.

Easily the coolest bar in Durham, amazing selection of beers and amazing food. All served by the coolest cats in town. Always go in whenbi get a rare night out in Durham.

lots of beer selections and they rotate the inventory. good classic rock playing through a nice stereo system. comfortable seating. definitely stick to the beer though. they had a cocktail menu, but neither bartender seemed to know how to make a proper drink. but it’s my fault for ordering something other than beer, which is why you’d come to this place

Majorly good surprise in Durham! After going to several other par-​for-​the-​course pubs in town, I was thrilled to find a place where quality beer was a top priority. Truthfully, the cask ales on offer were a bit weak, but they rotate them out regularly. The big, pleasant surprise is what they have on regular taps and in bottles. Amazing selection for a British pub, especially the Belgian and U.S. bottle beer offerings.
Had a tasty pizza while there as well, which was more than I could finish despite being the «small» size. Service was awesome, with Ryan and Oliver being first rate barkeeps who know their beer and made a stranger from abroad feel welcome.

Well its hardly traditional but its got a character of its own, it feels like a converted working mens club.

great little place, nowt much in durham so this little place is a great find!

Nice friendly bar with a great choice of beers.

Great choice of cask & international bottled beers. Good range of interesting pub grub. Did not eat there as the downstairs area is a bit cramped for eating. Same co. that owns the Cluny so has live gigs too.