Positioned beside the historic Durham Crown Court, it quickly became a favourite haunt for court workers and townspeople alike, offering a place to gather, unwind, and share stories and across the decades, a colourful cast of landlords has shaped the character of the inn – names like William Robertson, Lord Trev, Mrs Thompson, Harry Walker (known for banning mobile phones long before it was fashionable) and Bob and Irene each left their mark, contributing to the pub’s enduring sense of community.

In its earlier years, The Court Inn was more than just a pub, it was a lively entertainment hub with an open space behind the building once hosting a variety of events, from theatre performances to travelling circuses. In the late 1800s, crowds gathered for evenings of acrobatics, comedy, music, and even burlesque, making it a vibrant hotspot in Victorian Durham.

The inn also carries echoes of wartime Britain. During the Second World War, the grandmother of landlord Trevor played her part by cooking for forces stationed nearby. Drawing inspiration from their tastes, she created a unique blend of dishes. It’s a small but telling example of the inn’s long-standing connection to people, place, and shared experience.