About This Pub
Ah, The Mowden in Darlington is one of those pubs that just feels like a proper local gem, you know? From the reviews I've seen, it's all about that warm, community spirit – picture yourself settling in with a pint of award-winning cask ale while catching the latest match on the screens. The food really steals the show; folks rave about the fresh, British-sourced dishes, like the surf and turf or those hearty parmos, and it's clear they're putting in the effort with their in-house butchery for that authentic taste. It's moderately priced too, so you won't break the bank for a good night out. But, on the downside, it can get a bit chaotic when things pick up – imagine one bar person juggling everything, which means service might drag a little, especially on weekends or holidays. Still, with such high marks from regulars, I'd say it's well worth popping by for a relaxed catch-up with mates, just maybe plan ahead for busier evenings.
Pros and Cons
Pros
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The staff are incredibly friendly and helpful, always up for a chat and making you feel welcome right from the off.
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The food is absolutely spot on – fresh British produce with generous portions, like that massive Hot Shot King Parmo or the delicious Weardale Chicken, and plenty of choices to suit everyone.
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They've got a cracking selection of real ales, wines, and draught options, plus live sports on the telly for a proper pub atmosphere.
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It's reasonably priced for what you get, especially if you're tucking into a full meal with drinks, and the community vibe makes it feel like a local hub.
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The setting's lovely, overlooking green belt land with a beer garden that's perfect for soaking up the summer sun.
Cons
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Service can get a bit stretched during busy times, like bank holidays, with just one or two folks handling everything, which might mean longer waits for food or drinks.
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Opening hours are a tad limited on weekdays, starting from 5pm, so it's not ideal if you're after an early pint or meal.
Contact Information
Staindrop Rd, Darlington DL3 9BE
+441325488740
Pub
Opens at 17:00
Opening Hours
| Monday (Today) | 17:00 - 23:00 |
| Tuesday | 17:00 - 23:00 |
| Wednesday | 17:00 - 23:00 |
| Thursday | 17:00 - 23:00 |
| Friday | 12:00 - 23:00 |
| Saturday | 12:00 - 23:00 |
| Sunday | 12:00 - 20:00 |
Recent Reviews
A very friendly place, staff very helpful and easy to talk to, food lovely I had Weardale Chicken,and it was delicious , lots of choice on the menu will go again and recommend to family and friends
Good overall - just felt sorry for the 1 bar maid behind the bar, and the 1 waitress who was taking food orders, bringing orders to tables, clearing tables, seating new arrivals etc. This ultimately impacted how long it took for us to place a food order, and then receive it. 1pm on a bank holiday Monday should have more staff on shift! Otherwise, a great pub with good food and lots of choice on the menu! We will return!
Went for tea last night, for my daughter's birthday. There was 9 of us and nothing was a problem for the staff. They were very attentive and made a big fuss of my daughter, too.The food was absolutely delicious!
My husband and I had surf and turf. The quality of the meat was amazing! Definitely worth the money and it was a really nice evening had by us all.
Been here a few times now with my partner and every single visit has been superb!!
Very easy to book a table and the staff are very welcoming and accommodating, cannot fault them at all.
The food is spectacular! Never had a bad meal once. We have tried a variety of the menu now and everything is delicious. Generous portions too. I highly recommend the giant Yorkshire 👌
Very reasonably priced menu as well, never once felt anything was too expensive but given how tremendous the food taste and quality is, I'd happily pay anything.
Will definitely be back many times to come, the absolute best place to eat in Darlington, no question.
Reasonably priced pub grub and really nice food, me the wife and two older kids and the bill was £90 which I thought was ok considering we had a couple of drinks as well as starter and mains.
Hot Shot King Parmo is huge!
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