The Gate Bar in Darlington

41-42 Blackwellgate, Darlington DL1 5HW

About This Pub

Ah, The Gate – it's one of those spots in Darlington that's buzzing with potential, open every day from 10 in the morning till 10 at night, which is handy for a casual pint or a proper night out. From what I've gathered from the reviews, it's got some cracking features like a fun mix of music areas and staff who can be spot-on with service, making it feel welcoming and efficient. The prices are reasonable too, so you won't feel short-changed. But, crikey, it's not all rosy; there are tales of rude bar staff and even serious issues like discrimination that have left some feeling unwelcome and frustrated. Overall, it's a bit of a mixed bag – if you're up for a gamble, it could be a great laugh, but I'd say keep an eye out for the service on the night, as that seems to make or break the experience. Still, with a 3.9 rating, there's plenty to like if you catch it on a good day.

Pros and Cons

Pros

The door staff and security are really helpful and on top form, making you feel looked after.
Service at the bar is quick, so you won't be waiting ages for your drinks.
It's got a great atmosphere with dance music in the front and more relaxed tunes in the back – perfect for a mix of nights out.
Prices are fair, so you can enjoy a pint without worrying about the cost.
The toilets have friendly staff on hand with amenities, which is a thoughtful little extra.

Cons

Some staff can be downright rude, like that bar person with the awful attitude – it's a real letdown.
There have been complaints about flat pints and subpar service, which can ruin the evening.
Allegations of discrimination, such as turning folks away for not having a British ID, are seriously concerning and leave a bad taste.
Experiences can be inconsistent, with some visits feeling welcoming and others just plain disappointing.

Contact Information

41-42 Blackwellgate, Darlington DL1 5HW

+441325381910

Bar

Open Now

Opening Hours

Monday	10:00 - 22:00
Tuesday	10:00 - 22:00
Wednesday	10:00 - 22:00
Thursday (Today)	10:00 - 22:00
Friday	10:00 - 22:00
Saturday	10:00 - 22:00
Sunday	10:00 - 22:00

Location

Recent Reviews

!!!!!Never again this place ! I went out to celebrete my birthday with my friend and i been turned back by the doorman regarding i don’t had a british id , i m(hungarian) i been here ones before i thought its a nice place but this was an awful experience … Racism …. !!!!!

Sándor Mártonné Hetényi

Great late-night bar with dance music in the front section and more relaxed music in the back. Staff are very quick to serve drinks, the toilets have friendly staff who provide amenities, and the security are on-the ball and responsive.

Tough Puppy

Young girl on the outside bar Friday 14th June should not be in a customer facing role. Her attitude absolutely stinks, most rude person we've ever come across.

Mark

Went in on Friday night and my pint was flat and just disgusting,staff rude even saying I don't care , second member of staff saying that's not flat ,I do know how a pint should be and how service should be and the service is shocking.door staff really helpful and friendly and we're very helpful with times of taxis. But the staff that were working Friday need extra training.

craig nicholson

One of the best pub and nightclub in darlington. Excellent customer service delivery. the prices are fair. The Gate is opened everyday except on a tuesday. The doorman and bouncers are top notch, and the staff always ensure that customers are well attended to. I will surely recommend The Gate for anyone for an exquisite nightlife.

Ismaeel Olatunde “ISP” Olayiwola