About This Pub
You know, when I popped into The Criterion, it just had this warm, welcoming feel that made me want to stay for hours. The real wood fires and original historical features create such a cosy atmosphere, ideal for chatting with mates over a drink. Their cocktail menu is spot on, with plenty of variety and some brilliant deals, especially if you're into bottomless brunches – and the food doesn't disappoint either, from tasty real ales to that lovely complimentary cheeseboard they do on Sundays. The staff are absolute gems, always on hand with a smile and great recommendations. On the downside, it's only open a few days a week, so you have to plan around that, and their website's a bit unreliable, which means you might end up checking Facebook for the latest info. Still, it's a fantastic little spot overall, and I'd say it's well worth a visit if you're in the area – just keep an eye on those opening times to avoid any disappointment.
Pros and Cons
Pros
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The cosy atmosphere with real wood fires really makes it feel like a proper traditional pub, perfect for a relaxing evening.
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They've got a fantastic cocktail menu with fun options and great deals, including bottomless brunches that are always a hit.
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The service is top-notch – the staff are friendly and attentive, making everyone feel welcome right away.
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Food options are brilliant, with good selections like real ales and even a complimentary cheeseboard on Sundays after 5pm.
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Its historical charm and great location in South Shields add to the appeal, making it a lovely spot for celebrations or casual meet-ups.
Cons
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It's only open three days a week, which can be a bit limiting if you're hoping for a spontaneous visit.
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The website seems to have some issues, like errors when trying to access it, so getting more details online can be tricky.
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There's no phone number listed, which might make it harder to check on things quickly or book ahead.
Contact Information
2a Ocean Rd, South Shields NE33 2HZ
Bar
Closed today
Opening Hours
| Monday (Today) | Closed |
| Tuesday | Closed |
| Wednesday | Closed |
| Thursday | Closed |
| Friday | 12:00 - 01:30 |
| Saturday | 12:00 - 01:30 |
| Sunday | 12:00 - 23:00 |
Recent Reviews
Loved this place. Visited it with friends. The cocktail menu was fun and varied. Such good deals as well. Also on a Sunday they do a complimentary cheeseboard after 5pm. The real wood fires were wonderful and added to the cosy atmosphere of the place. It is very historical and original inside you do have to climb some stairs to enter and exit. The staff were friendly and professional. Toilets were clean and well maintained. Would be happy to go here alone.
Edit: Some friends and I visited for a bottomless brunch and it was absolutely fabulous! Would highly recommend. The food was gorgeous, so fresh and well prepared. It was completely perfect and we were able to have what we didn't eat to go home with us. Plus the bartender kept us well supplied with delicious and inventive cocktails.
Lovely and cosy. We went for brunch and it was great. Cocktails were presented nicely and staff were lovely. I'd highly recommend this place.
We had a lovely afternoon celebrating a staff do. The Criterion is a proper old-fashioned pub, with great service, good food and good vibes! The location is great and they're not tight with their drinks offering for bottomless brunches.
It's small ans cosy. Would definitely recommend.
Can not fault the service, staff, drinks or food! Would recommend to anyone. Bottomless brunch top notch. I will be back!
A lovely relaxing, cosy traditional pub with real fires and a good real ale selection. Great food selection.
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