The Grn, Stapleton, Darlington DL2 2QQ

About This Pub

Ah, The Bridge Inn – it's one of those places that really captures the heart of a traditional Yorkshire country pub, blending that classic feel with a bit of modern flair. I've got to say, the food stands out as a highlight; their Sunday lunches and carvery are just brilliant, with fresh ingredients and generous portions that make you feel right at home. Pair that with the super-friendly staff who keep things running smoothly, and you've got a spot that's perfect for a relaxed meal or a catch-up with mates. The drink selection is another winner, offering everything from cracking real ales to wines that'll suit any taste, all in a charming setting near the River Tees. But, let's be honest, it's not all smooth sailing – some recent feedback points to occasional letdowns, like disappointing steak dishes that didn't hit the mark, especially for big events like birthdays or anniversaries. There are times when service might not quite keep up, and with a few mixed signals on opening hours, it pays to check ahead. Overall, though, if you're up for a bit of an adventure in the countryside, it's worth a visit – just go in with an open mind and maybe aim for one of their busier, well-reviewed days to get the best of it.

Pros and Cons

Pros
  • The food is absolutely spot on, especially their Sunday lunch and carvery – it's fresh, homemade, and full of flavour, making it a real treat for a weekend outing.
  • The staff are so friendly and attentive; they go out of their way to make sure you're looked after, even when the place is buzzing.
  • It's got a fantastic selection of drinks, from creative cocktails to a great range of beers, lagers, and wines, so there's something for everyone.
  • The location is just lovely, tucked away in a picturesque Yorkshire village near the River Tees, perfect for a relaxing visit with a touch of countryside charm.
Cons
  • Some recent visits have had issues with food quality, like tough steaks that didn't live up to expectations, which is a real shame for a special occasion.
  • There might be inconsistencies in service or experiences, as a few folks have mentioned things not going smoothly after the starters.
  • The operating hours can be a bit confusing, and with the current status suggesting it's closed, it might not always be reliable for spontaneous trips.
  • Despite the overall good rating, the latest reviews show a dip, so it could be hit or miss depending on when you go.

Contact Information

The Grn, Stapleton, Darlington DL2 2QQ
+441325350106
Bar
Opens at 17:00

Opening Hours

Monday17:00 - 22:00
Tuesday17:00 - 22:00
Wednesday (Today)17:00 - 22:00
Thursday17:00 - 22:00
Friday12:00 - 15:00
Saturday12:00 - 15:00
Sunday12:00 - 22:00

Location

Recent Reviews

Booked a table on the 15/02/2025 at Noon so we could celebrate my son’s birthday. We were seated and our drinks order was taken quickly, within 5 minutes our food order was taken. As a table of 4 we only ordered one starter which was brought to the table quickly, but once the stater was finished this is where things started to become unacceptable. So by 12.20pm the starter plate was removed from the table, we then had to sit in a cold restaurant until 13.25pm. This is when 2 meals where brought to the table after a few minutes the other 2 meals where brought. Whilst my meal tasted good it was room temperature bordering on cold, I informed the waitress who promptly returned the meal to the kitchen and after a few minutes came back and said a new meal would have to be made and would take 10 minutes . I said that was fine as the whole table had just started eating, after 15 minutes No sign or no comments about the meal plus everyone had nearly finished their meals. Once the whole table had finished their food there was still no sign of my food. So I called the waitress over and said as there is No sign of my meal cancel it and bring me a bill that you think is reasonable for the service I have been given. After speaking with her manage the decision was not to charge me for the meal that was sent back. I paid the bill, I have eaten here many times over the years and enjoyed it. But this experience was very poor and to think that me not being charged for a meal that was borderline cold is an apology. I Certainly will post on all platforms to avoid.
S
Steven
Taken wife for our 35th Anniversary and her birthday. Ordered Myself 20oz Porthouse, wife parmo. Service pretty good. They Soonas seen it knew thats not a Portherouse, tried to fob me off with this crap, full grissle couldnt even chew it. @ £29.50, absolute shocking. Theydid replacewithPorthouse,wifealmost finished her meal. If wasnt for the occasion, would refuse and money back...
B
Brian
Had the best Sunday lunch, two courses. The food was exceptional with service to match. We were well looked after even though the place was busy. Pity we live too far away, I'll be there every Sunday
KN
Karl n Angela Lee
Absolutely fantastic place! We booked a table for 17:30 and it's a good job we did because they seemed to be fully booked minus 2 or 3 tables. Drinks were brought over very quickly, as was the food. We went for the early bird 3 course menu and the value for money was astonishing. I had the calamari + whitebait to start which was lovely, crispy coatings with lovely soft fish/squid inside plus a tasty little salad on the side. 3 of us had the mixed grill and it was *massive*. Meat was cooked nicely, the mushroom was one of the nicest I've had, the chips were great, and the onion rings were nice, if not a little bit too oily. For dessert I had the blondie which was nice. I would've gone for sticky toffee pudding but it's not often you see somewhere that serves a blondie rather than a brownie. The other meals were fab too. They had the baked black pudding, Peking duck, and salt and pepper chicken to start which were all nice. For mains, there were the other mixed grills, the pulled pork burger, and the pork loin steak. Again, also lovely. Other desserts included the raspberry brulee and baked cookie dough. Service was fantastic as well, checked on regularly and everything brought out very quickly. Even when it got very busy the level of service didn't change.
HJ
Hannah Jones
Went here for a family night get together the night before my dads birthday and I have to say that the food was fantastic and very hot. The staff was really friendly and nice always asking us if everything was alright, I went with the Barney rubble steak which is about 32oz and it was huge and well done and it tasted great, I just managed to shift it with a little to spare. I would definitely recommend this place to anyone who loves their food as they have a great menu too suit every taste. I would definitely go here again. Many thanks to the staff and the chefs who made it a great night to remember 👍.
JH
John Hammond

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