• Added: 27th of August 2008
• Area: Durham
• Category: Restaurants

Durham DH1 1RH

Sarahthing said
Oldfields
Oldfields is indeed quite pricey for Durham, but it's definitely worth visiting once in a while. There are deals available which make it much better value, including a soup and sandwich deal, and their equivalent of the 'earlybird' which, I think, is two courses for £10.95 or thereabouts before 7pm on weekdays.
The last time I went was on Valentine's day, and I was rather dreading spending an evening out, as usually places hike up the prices on Valentine's day, make you choose from a limited menu and are incredibly busy. Thankfully, Oldfields wasn't like this at all. Their one concession to the occasion were heart-shaped balloons on each chair but these were ignorable :P The food is yummy, and varied, and it's really nice to know that the produce is locally grown and sourced. All in all, worth saving up for, especially when college food becomes too much!

• Added: 27th of August 2008
• Area: Durham
• Category: Bars and Pubs

Durham DH1 1QW

Sarahthing said
The Woodman
This pub has just undergone a change of management, and I think that it's for the better. It still welcomes both students and locals, and has a good selection of ales, lagers and spirits although the latter seem to have gone up in price since Peter left. There's a quiz on Sunday nights, which is definitely picking up as the current hosts have only been doing it for a couple of months. As the new owner, Paula, has just taken over, the decoration could be said to be 'under construction' but it's heading towards being a cosy, welcoming local pub which doesn't discriminate against students.

• Added: 27th of August 2008
• Area: Durham
• Category: Cafes and Coffee Shops

Durham DH1 3RD

Sarahthing said
Caffe Nero, Durham
I like this particular Nero a lot. It does tend to get very crowded, especially in term-time when Durham is over-run with students, but that almost adds to it's atmosphere. One or two of the guys who work there make very good coffee,(one makes coffee that's undrinkable, but usually they'll remake it for you if you complain), and they're unfailingly cheerful and friendly which is amazing considering how busy it gets. There's usually a great selection of cakes, pastries and sandwiches, and cold drinks including the Nero version of the frappuccino. If you avoid going on Saturday mornings, you'll almost always get a table, even if you have to share with someone else but this can often start conversations as it gets quite cosy!

• Added: 27th of August 2008
• Area: Newcastle Upon Tyne
• Category: Cafes and Coffee Shops

Newcastle Upon Tyne NE1 5AF
0191 230 5253

Sarahthing said
Starbucks, Newvcastle
Starbucks' in the UK seem to be a hit and miss affair, with some producing perfectly drinkable coffee and others being foul in all ways! This branch is fine..the regular drip coffee is ok, the lattes and cappuccinos tend to be a bit burnt but the frappuccinos are good. As with all places like this, it rather depends on who you get making your coffee, as some baristas are better than others. On the whole though, this branch is good. As with all Starbucks' though, it does tend to be on the pricey side, especially where sandwiches and paninis are concerned.