The Cellar Door

You'll descend into the medieval underbelly of Durham when you head down to The Cellar Door—literally beneath street level on one of the city centre's most characterful streets. It's the kind of place that makes you feel like you've stumbled onto something proper, all exposed stone walls and flickering candlelight that actually justifies the romance without being try-hard about it. The kitchen takes itself seriously without the pretension, and the fact nearly 900 people have rated it 4.5 stars suggests they're doing something genuinely right. It's become the sort of spot locals actually book ahead for, not just tourists ticking boxes.