Reviews of Vennels Café. (Coffee Shop) in Durham (County Durham).

Vennels Café

624 Reviews

402 Comments

Coffee shop

Coffee shop

UK, 71 Saddler St, Durham DH1 3NP, United Kingdom

Description

Information of Vennels Café, Coffee shop in Durham (County Durham)

On this page you’ll find the address, open hours, more popular times, the contact, photos and real reviews of this business.

This business has received very good reviews from their customers, so probably it’s a place you should try if you are looking for this kind of services.

Map

Open hours of Vennels Café

Popular times

Sunday

Monday

Tuesday

Wednesday

Thursday

Friday

Saturday

Reviews of Vennels Café

J. k. (.

Decided to grab some lunch while in Durham today, saw a sign for this place and the little tunnelled access was just too much to resist. The place is spread over 3 floors, great decor and lovely facilities. Food was amazing, I just opted for a toasted ciabbatta filled with Chicken, Brie, something and stuffing plus coleslaw (extra) and crisps. I thoroughly enjoyed it, washed down with a great decaf cappuccino (with the best chocolate topping I've had) 😋😋😋😋 The staff were really nice & the place was immaculately clean, everything's made in house, they certainly have their operation down. Keep up the good work, I'll be back next time I'm in Durham 😋

D. S.

Excellent little cafe tucked away. You access it via narrow alleyways, so it's easy to miss. Great bacon rolls, coffee very good, cakes look really attractive. It is self-service ordering, then delivered to your table, (this isn't obvious when you arrive).

M.

The best jacket with Mediterranean veg and feta! Best family and dog friendly café in Durham in my opinion. Lovely atmosphere and always new items plus a discount for students :)

E.

Carrot cake was great, although for over £4 per slice you'd expect it to be. Overall the café was ok, we stopped here for a spot of lunch whilst out walking. There was no prices on anything when ordering at the counter, so I got a shock when I heard the total. It cost almost £28, for 2 small toasted sandwiches (not the tastiest ever and didn't come with salad or anything on the side, but they were ok), 2 slices of cake and 1 pot of tea. Wouldn't rush back as I thought it was all a bit overpriced.

S. L.

Lovely quiet cafe just behind the main shopping streets of Durham. Large selection of cakes and savouries along with a good selection of hot and cold drinks. Very enjoyable afternoon tea.

s. c.

What a wonderful find on our first visit to Durham since a school trip aged 10.Beautiful homemade food and a warm welcome awaits.The festive panini was divine and homemade cakes and scones looked delicious. Tables set out on various floors.All cosy and the outdoor area was perfect for dogwalkers

J. B.

Nice spot to get a hot drink and a small bite. Cakes are homemade and do get snapped up rather quickly if you get to the cafe late in the day.

P. R.

Lovely little cafe, prices towards the expensive end. Usually very busy but you can usually find a table. Service also tends to be slow. I met my good lady here so it will always be special

P. M.

Really friendly and welcoming staff. Cosy atmosphere with lovely furniture. The vegan chocolate and orange loaf was excellent.

H. S.

A wonderful and friendly cafe with a fantastic array of delicious sweet and savoury foods. A comfortable place to go with friends, family, or on a coffee date as there are lots of different areas to sit outside or in. The staff are very caring towards those with allergies, even going so far as to find alternate ingredients for me so that I could still enjoy one of the amazing toasties. I have been many times and they never disappoint - can't recommend Vennels enough!

R. P.

This is a four star cafe. I've knocked a star off after slightly unclear / confusing guidance by a staff member on the availability of gluten-free food. I asked if gluten-free was available and was told, we have gluten-free bread. The server didn't seem prepared to expand on if there was a separate prep area or prep utensils available / measures in place, or if they felt comfortable accommodating celiac or gluten allergens, so I bought some crisps and bottled drinks, and left it at that. We also chose not to return for breakfast the next day due to the confusion. There is plenty of seating, even during busy times, and the food (containing gluten) looked very good at a decent price. The menu was varied. In this regard it was one of the better cafes we visited in Durham during our stay. Their website said gluten-free options available so disappointing the server couldn't expand or explain this.

S. J. A.

Great, quirky café with seating over two levels (stairs) and in the courtyard outside. All the food looked lovely, freshly prepared. Although it was very busy, the staff had it all under control and were friendly and cheerful. We would definitely come again.

E. S.

From the market place walk towards the cathedral, on the right hand side look for an alley saying vennels. Updated Aug 2022 Attended today ordered two Anericano Coffee, milk provided separate (strange)..one batch of milk was off, so got it replaced, coffee was bitter and bland. Ordered scrambled egg, with only one option of white toast, served with one butter which was just enough to do half of the toast. Give the other bit of toast to the dog who didn't eat it as to dry. Sadly this place had gone down hill.

d. t.

This place is hidden up an alley but shouldn't be missed. They have a wide variety of cakes, sandwiches and more. I went for the breakfast sausage sandwich and the carrot cake. The sausages were of really high quality and tasted fresh while the carrot cake was moist and had a delicious frosting. It won't be my last time here.

R. F.

A very nice cosy spot with lovely staff! Wouldn't have known it was there! Had a cappuccino which had real chocolate flakes on the top which made all the difference. Got some corned beef pie to take away and it was unbelievable! Would definitely recommend and will be going back myself!

J. S.

This gorgeous cafe is one of the best in Durham. Home made cakes and pies and quiches ate just amazing. Delicious omelette, soup and hot chocolate. Lovely staff and a lovely atmosphere.

N. J.

Best carrot cake I have ever tasted!!!!! Everyone enjoyed their delicious lunch, very pleasant sat in courtyard. Would definitely return, highly recommended!

N. S.

My favorite cafe in Durham. Loved their Victoria sponge cake, carrot cake, their quiche and everything else. The ambience makes it special. The narrow vennel that one has to enter to reach the cafe gives it the name and is an absolute must visit.

Z. S.

The best cheese toasties in Durham! Been coming to Vennels for a very long time and it's always very popular. Lovely wholesome food, great staff and a fantastic atmosphere. Must come if in Durham

V. G.

Lovely outdoor seating area, relatively quick service at a busy time of day. We had the feta, spinach and pesto quiche which was delicious and a tuna jacket potato (I did feel this was slightly overpriced at £8:50, although I appreciate everything has gone up in price). Would recommend a visit.

J. A.

Lots of tasty looking food on display. Visit regularly, this time just had coffee and cheese scones sat in the sun in the courtyard. Very nice!

A.

Quite a busy little cafe but the staff are very good at working through the line of customers in a timely but effective manor. I had a Ciabatta and although they had many on display I asked if they could add things that I would have preferred, this kind of accomodating is excellent and tye food was perfect. I ordered cake and a fruit tea also. Carrot cake for my dessert which was amazing, a perfect blend of all th flavours, not overly sweet. The fruit tea was a little disappointing but I don't think that has any baring on my overall experience, I feel like the tea bags used are the real issue, very slow at realising the flavour so I don't blame the staff, once th flavour releases its great, it's just the wait for that to happen. (More intended to be constructive)

K. M.

Excellent café, it's been there for years for one reason. Quality! Pies, sandwiches, soups, scones, cakes, all made on the premises. Good value.

M. T.

What a lovely spot for a coffee and cake. The place was really charming, the stuff were super friendly & the courtyard was cosy. We didn't have cash only card on us. They allowed us to have our coffee first before we went to a cash machine. Definitely would go back.

J. T.

Nice quirky cafe. Great food and good coffee. You’ll have to smash your piggy bank because the ham and egg pie is £7 a slice!!

C. N. A.

I order their carrot cake and it's super delicious. My friend orders quiche and it's awesome as well. Definitely recommended!

T.

The seafood chowder is very good, with generous amounts of seafood - the mussels were huge! Quaint environment and friendly staff. I'll be returning!

S. M.

Hidden away up Snicket. Dog friendly inside, upstairs too, with old wood panel look and old adverts. self order at till with wonderful pies, sandwiches and cakes! Not quick but not fast food and so worth the wait!

J. M.

I always eat at Vennels cafe when I go to Durham for any length of time. One can eat inside or outside all year round, as they have a small courtyard covered by a canopy, with heaters in winter time. Excellent food, and something for everyone 😋

P. C.

Decent cheese scone, excellent orange and almond cake, good coffee. Plenty of seating on a Saturday with nice weather.

A. T.

Always really good quality food. Nice outdoor area and dog ice-cream for our non human family member.

P. K.

Their banoffi pie is the best and hot chocolate is really good. Both pie and hot chocolate are not too sweet. I recommend everyone to try this cafe once and you will like it.

S. B.

We go here regularly and have never been let down by either the food or service. They do the best carrot cake I've ever tasted, I would whole heartedly recommend.

J. I.

Sat at one of the courtyard tables for lunch during a weekday visit - very busy venue, but high turn over of tables. Relatively inexpensive options available, with quick service.

r. f.

Beautiful cafe in a beautiful city, the Durham picnic is amazing. Highly recommend.

M.

We had a good lunch in the little courtyard area. Freshly cooked food and pleasant surroundings.

J. W. (.

Stunning ancient building with a gorgeous, rickity chic decor. There is an upstairs and a courtyard so don't be put off by a queue. You'll not regret waiting. I've been a customer here since about 1999 and it hasn't changed a bit. Beautiful blue cheese scones, good coffee, tasty quiche and a slammin' banoffee pie. Long live Vennels! (Be aware they don't take cards but the street outside has loads of cash points so it's worth getting a tenner out and heading in)

R. H.

You will do yourself a favour if you eat here.

D. B.

First time visiting Durham the Manager of the Co op bank recommended Vennels what a great experience great service in pleasent surroundings and nice cakes and coffee.

S. P.

Rather hidden up a side alley is this fabulous cafe. Great coffee and cakes.

J. S.

Great fare available... however people with mobility issues be aware of many stairs to various floors.

s. l.

Lovely courtyard off the main street. Good selection of lunch items. Nice staff, great food and reasonable prices. Definitely worth a visit

C. H.

Lovely food with friendly staff. Dog friendly. Service was quick and you can even buy your pooch lunch which comes in its own little doggy bowl. Highly recommended.

K. G.

Happened to stop right in front of this restaurant as my husband and I were talking about lunch. Very busy place but did not take too long to get our sandwich and soup. Both were absolutely delicious! Highly recommended.

A. M.

Best VICTORIA SPONGY CAKE IN 🇬🇧

F. H.

Had beef goulash with garlic bread it was absolutely delicious would definitely recommend trying it.

M. S.

We've been to Durham so many times over the years but this is the first time we've popped into Vennels Cafe. Although we only had a cup of tea and a slice of chocolate cake each, it was the best cake we've had in a long time. Although the cafe is dog friendly, we sat outside in the quiet courtyard which had ample heaters to take any chill off. Looking forward to our next visit.

D. P.

This North Sea Chowder is truly incredible! If you're in Durham, and you need feeding, head to Vennels and try this. You will NOT be disappointed.

J.

I've been here many many times and it's always perfect. Easily the best café in Durham

S. G. &. M.

Very friendly service and delicious food. Good gf options.

H. D.

Lovely place, so cosy and tasty food.

C. T.

What a find! Incredibly busy but with good reason as the homemade food here is genuinely delicious. Staff very friendly. French wine very nice too. Lots of seats upstairs. Perfect!

D. M. T.

Cozy place for a tea or coffee with friends/family. The only problem is you have to pay with cash. Their carrot cake is delicious. You must try it!!!

M. F.

Had a lovely bacon bap at this semi hidden gem of a cafe. Situated up a narrow and fairly steep alley which adds to its allure..

E. M.

Very good. Wood panelled up and downstairs seating. Outside seating in courtyard. Access from street is via narrow stone paved lane. Good atmosphere. Almost Dickensian. Usually quite busy and you can expect a 20 minute wait in the queue at peak times. Good free WiFi. Toilets. Food hand made and usually very good and worth the wait. Staff friendly. I go once or twice in a two week period. Very enjoyable.

J. J.

Lovely quaint cafe, friendly and helpful staff. My friend and I had the broth and the seafood chowder, both reasonably priced. Personally, I thought the chowder was quite rich and maybe needed some sweetcorn - a very minor detail. Will definitely be returning to try the rest of the menu.

A. L.

Really lovely cosy spot. Great food and relaxed atmosphere.

G. A.

Excellent central cafe, dog friendly too. Wide, predominantly home-made, menu that changes a little daily. Hearty good food and drink options. Friendly staff and pretty quick service, allowing for the fact that it's always seemingly busy.

S. C.

Great atmosphere, tasty banoffee pie. Rich and not too creamy cream

K. L.

Absolutely lovely cafe. Staff are so friendly and attentive. Its very popular and busy so the queue is always there but is fast moving. Carrot cake is out of this world. And our sandwiches were delicious. Lovely little hidden treasure

C. R.

Possibly the best cup of tea and bacon sandwich I've ever tasted.

H. s.

Had a piece of cornedbeef pie and a can of coke.. Personally I think over 9 quid for that was absolutely ridiculous.

A.

Best carrot cake I have ever tasted!

D. O.

Lovely courtyard seating (heated and with umbrellas over tables) available. It is also dog friendly. It is a quaint cafe with good selections of teas and cakes.

K. G.

I really liked the vibe of the place. The service is good, coffee is decent and the carrot cake is delicious. Would definitely go back, I must try every dessert.

M. H.

First time I have been upstairs and with its seating outside in the courtyard makes a great place to socialise in Durham. Feel like the food is a little overpriced.. but customers I could see were, enjoying their food. Good choice of pies and cakes. Disappointed to see students on their laptops taking up large large tables in a venue here. I see it as a lack of manners without food/drink. I enjoyed Victoria cake and tea. May I suggest waitress offering to take food/drink on trays for customers who are old or unable to manage. As I could see many not able to manage a tray and stairs without an accident.

R. H.

lovely coffee we love the lonton brand they use.lovely to sit out in courtyard.very friendly staff reasonably priced as well .a little gem of a place .can't wait to go back

H. D.

Lovely ambiance, such a quaint building and a great range of food and drinks- especially the homemade quiches!

s. m.

Great food and atmosphere a little pricey! No porridge, not good for the 3 bears!

R. G.

Dog friendly. Cosy. Chatty fun-filled staff. Left the place full up and smiling.

D. K.

Lovely banoffee pie. A little dear but the quality of the food, atmosphere and jolly staff more than made up for it.

D. T.

Some food was delivered immediately, a long wait for other items (which were overdone). Very tight spaces to move around especially with a tray. I thought it pricey too

S. H.

My experience in this cafe was ruined by the Toffs on the next table moaning about how bad their holiday to Peru was and how they had to wait longer than normal at the weekend for their return flight from Paris. Why so loud? Anyway… The cafe itself is quite nice, bit understaffed and overpriced though even for Durham.

K. W.

Exceptionally lovely, as always. We sat outside in the courtyard and the atmosphere was so lovely.

J. P.

Brilliant family cafe. Lovely food and friendly staff

S. M.

Hidden away, so perhaps not as crowded as other places. Outdoor seating available under giant umbrella that extends well beyond tables to keep you dry in the rain. Great vegetarian options and very cute place!

F. N.

Fabulous homemade cake and incredibly friendly staff. One of the finest cafés I have ever visited. Really hope to return on my next trip to Durham.

D. W.

Dog friendly cafe hidden away in an old courtyard in old Durham city. Think it has changed hands? Flat white was nice, (£3) Menu looked nice, maybe I should try some lunch next time.

m. P.

Cosy city centre cafe. A lovely place to meet and catch up with friends. Both indoor and outdoor seating. Outdoor area has heaters. Staff are friendly and helpful.

S. K.

Nice and cosy café. Tends to be crowded at the weekends.

N. B.

We went to see the moon in the Cathedral. We always go to Vennel's, when we come over to Durham. Good British food, a bit of a wait, because it's very popular. (That's not a complaint about the wait!)

T. H.

Bustling and busy with a great atmosphere. Really good food and reasonably priced. Don't expect fast food - there will be a queue, but it will be worth waiting for.

e.

Amazing carrot cake and good service, coffee tastes good.

T.

Best cafe in Durham; whether it's for a quiet place to study, a quick chat over coffee with friends, or a hearty lunch with visiting parents. Filter coffee is a bargain and there is a wonderful tea selection. Cakes are also gorgeous, I cannot recommend the gluten free almond and orange cake enough!

A. L.

It's off one of the small side streets in Durham. You have to wear a mask to get in and order. All the food tasted yummy and fresh. The display cases show you what's on the specials menu. If I could, I would've ordered all the desserts. Highly recommend the corned beef pie and the aged cheddar savoury. For pudding, we had the pavlova. We ate in the hidden courtyard that's open, and way lovely because it was sunny. There's many levels of indoor seating as well as clean toilets.

V. C.

Staff very friendly, limited menu, but the food is fresh, homemade and tasty. Unlike some cafe's there was adequate room between tables. This place I found was rather pricey as a slice of quiche with a very small serving of lettuce, tomato and coleslaw was £6.45 and not very warm. The coffee was nice too, but again not very warm and certainly not hot.

v. R.

Always great food and coffee, new revamped menu with Korean inspired sandwiches.

S. B.

Brilliant Cafe with wonderful coffee and homemade cakes and quiche. Enjoyed a wonderful greek salad. Very warm, quaint decoration to the walls and treadle tables all round. Would definitely recommend. Enjoy. Can't wait to go back to Durham to visit again. Would give it 11 out of 10. Well done to its owner and staff who provide honest, real homemade foods.

D. R.

Great cafe in a really old building, really has some character. The coffee and carrot cake was delicious and cheddar and date chutney sandwich was awesome. Quite out of the way and access isn't great as there are a few steps and seating upstairs, and also a covered courtyard for when the weather is fine. Highly recommended.

H. C.

Fantastic cakes and coffee. Great atmosphere, lots of space inside and out. Friendly staff.

강.

Of course as a tailor I love the treadle tables, but there's tea and cake to boot too. It does of course as a Durham institution get busy around meal times, but there are quiet patches where it's great for a cuppa and a catchup. I've been here a few time, always for at least a scone, and things are trad tasty, and the staff are wonderful.

S. N.

I will start and finish by saying that real men eat quiche. Real smart men eat quiche at Vennels. Their ham and leek is one of the best I have had -- and I have a high standard, as you might tell. Excellent staff. Nice space. Lots of tables, but good luck getting one.

S. B.

Lovely little hidden away spot, perfect place to catch some breakfast. Really friendly staff, with great food and atmosphere. Very COVID safe too, plenty of seating available with the measures you'd expect. Definitely worth a look!

P. O.

My favourite cafe in Durham City, pleasant atmosphere, service dogs allowed in with well behaved owner(s).. Food is excellent and well presented. Worth a visit, but it does get busy. Steps to get and toilets are upstairs,not sure if it has a disabled toilet, but it does have a seating area outside that is heated.

A. T.

I stopped in here to get a bit of work done on my lunch break. I had a gorgeous piece of homemade flapjack, and a nice loose leaf tea. Service was incredibly friendly. I sat downstairs, which was somewhat cramped but with a lot of character. There appeared to be more seating available upstairs, but I didn't explore. Would definitely recommend as an alternative to a common chain.

S. C.

By far our favourite place to eat in Durham. The food is delicious and the place itself is lovely. The refurbishment looks great!! Definately worth a visit.

A. M.

Nice cafe and plenty of food options had a ploughmans baguette and a pot of tea excellent

C. C.

A short walk away from the high street to a discrete coffee haven. Coffee was warm and flapjack was delicious, however the main positive was the service. Very kindly turned the heaters on for us and also the staff enjoyed our Nintendo themed attire. Will return.

L. P.

Much loved by the locals of Durham it seems. Very busy indeed but on 2 floors so no problem seating. Quiche: a good sized slice but not particularly tasty for 'bacon and leek '. The butter bean and coriander pâté disappointingly bland - came in a ramekin with a small salad and a large roll and butter. All made on the premises apparently .

s. N.

Lunched here yesterday, lovely cafe', very helpful friendly staff and lovely food made on the premises, intend to revisit as soon as we can. First class. Decor is wonderful, sets it apart from other establishments. A lovely experience through out.

A. D.

Wonderful Greek salad and corned beef pie eaten outside in the courtyard, highly recommended!

L. J. H.

Lovely food and seating area outside

C. B.

Lovely old building in the heart of Durham. Food drink and staff all wonderful. Will be a regular stop for me when in Durham.

L. S.

Very nice cafe. I can thoroughly recommend the bannofi pie and the quiches. Nice outdoor seating area where we sat with our dog. As it was chilly the staff put the patio heaters on. Staff are friendly and helpful. Really cannot fault this place. Highly recommended.

s. m.

Lovely staff. The food is amazing all freshly made and lots of choice of savoury and sweet. Lots of choices on the drinks menu. Hidden gem of a place

J. P.

Worth finding. Accessible up a narrow alley or out the upstairs side door of Waterstones. Good food and delicious cakes. Downstairs can get busy but it is worth checking for space up the steep staircase which really deters the less agile.

M. G.

Excellent freshly baked cakes, sandwiches and salads in a great atmosphere. This is a definite must if visiting Durham!

A. B.

Friendly independent cafe with good food with a picturesque 16th century courtyard. Has the best scones in Durham. Dogs welcome within the courtyard.

A. C. P.

A very nice cafe really traditional ambient with lot's of tasty cakes and sweets. Coffee was also very good and the staff very friendly. However, the tables were somewhat tight..a bit more spacing would be recommended

E. L.

The staff here are really friendly, helping older customers with their trays, helping customers decide what to eat and drink, customising meals to suit etc. The good is all freshly prepared with the quiches and cakes cooked locally. What's not to like?

S. M.

A v good bacon sandwich with good quality bacon. All cakes looked home made. Quiche looked fab. Scones were light and tasty but not over sweet. Staff were pleasant and helpful.

s. l.

Excellent coffee and cake, very good service and extremely dog friendly. The courtyard is a delightful place to sit.

i. c.

Easily overlooked courtyard just off the main street but worth a visit. Plenty of seating outside and friendly service with home made food. On a hot day it is a cool oasis to be savoured, visit it and enjoy!

B. D.

Beautiful place,, food is very nice especially the cakes,, go every Friday with my partner

A. S.

A lovely secret cafe in Durham! Great food and lovely coffee. But the Pavlova is irresistible. There is a lovely outside courtyard with beautiful well kept flower pots for a n8ce sunny day

D. F.

Delicious espresso, great cakes

P. D.

A cosy, relaxing cafe in the heart of Durham city, with a wide variety of excellent food at reasonable prices. Plenty of outdoor seating as well. The staff are helpful and very friendly.

P. K.

Good food and good service at decent prices. All good ☺️.

S.

Historic. Great coffee. Great food. Lovely staff

D. O.

Very busy cafe in central Durham. We went up the narrow stairs to find a table and were lucky. Food looked really good especially the giant slices of quiche!

k. l.

A delight. Hidden away with a lovely courtyard. Food and cakes are delicious

m. m.

Wonderful friendly staff who bend over backwards to help and serve you to the highest standards of skill and efficiency. I had a slice of (wedge) of cheese and onion quiche and a pot of tea excellent food lovely pot of tea. No hurry to leave no one harassing me to move. Great surene atmosphere. Only problem for me I'll be in trouble when I get home and can't eat my tea. Michael. Ele.

J. D.

Lovely coffee, date scone and not too busy but we were quite early!! Very pleasant staff and surroundings including the outside courtyard area. Will be back.

M. J.

Fantastic place but massive queue due to only one push button coffee machine. Time to get a second one guys. Will definitely come back though. Food was fabulous!

C. L.

Absolutely my favourite cafe in Durham with the most wonderful staff and delicious food. I lost my wallet here and they kept it for me until I returned. Number one choice in Durham.

W. K.

Nice and homely vibe, cakes look great but I didn’t have any. Took a chicken sandwich that was okay but nothing special for the price. Coffee was decent

K. C.

I love this place, I go every time I go back home. It's so nice and chilled in the courtyard even though you're in the centre of town. Soup is delicious and the coffee is good.

B. M.

Pleased that you are back in business - new layout downstairs but still the great cake and super service!!

D. S.

Vennels has a lovely warm and welcoming feel to it The staff are polite and not pushy when ordering they allow you the time you need and don't try and extra sell with whatever you buy. There is a nice cozy feel when you sit there, it's the kind of place where all the tables are pretty close together but when you're sitting there no one else matters except the company you keep and the produce you're consuming

B. C.

Disappointed no scones left at 2.30pm so just had coffee

l. m.

Gorgeous cafe that we can't wait to go back to! Amazing and friendly staff with amazing food and very tempting home made cakes!

S. P.

Best scones in Durham! Beautiful building and there is outdoor seating in the courtyard. Very helpful staff.

E. S.

Really enjoyed our lunch here. The quiche was amazing, staff lovely and the venue was cosy. Without the city centre volunteers we would have missed it as it's tucked away.

J. M.

Lovely cafe, seating both ground floor and and upstairs room. A lovely selection of hot and cold foods

a. S.

Really good. But however they have stopped doing the date and apple chutney. Would have given them 5 stars if they still did it. It was one of the best things about Vennels.

G. P.

Lovely place! The building is lovely, staff were very friendly and the cakes were excellent! Next time I'll be having a huge slice of that corned beef pie! 😲

F. A.

Best place for satisfying slice of cake! A delicious home made menu and a quaint space makes it a perfect venue for lunch and tea. Lovely ambiance.☕🍰

E. A. D. S.

It's a lovely café, perfect to go with friends for a nice cup of tea or a delicious hot chocolate with marshmallows! They have nice scones and quiches! I recommend it!

E. A.

Amazing cheese scones! Great historic setting in Sadders Yard DURHAM City. Covered courtyard with heaters. Always a friendly welcome from the staff

M. M.

I love this café - however can I just ask that the playlist may be changed? The music played in the upstairs, some kind of upbeat jazz, is very annoying for students who come study... Maybe some lofi jazz?

A. W.

Hidden gem, tucked away up a little passageway. It was busy when we went so we sat outside in the courtyard and had a coffee and cake. Reasonably priced, lovely cake...worth a visit.

K.

We had a lovely lunch here today, we sat out in the courtyard. Food was nice, quite traditional cafe food but perfect for what we wanted. Recommend the quiche.

P. C.

Incredibly lovely staff. Cozy place for the morning and afternoon tea. Highly recommend!

T. W.

Cosy atmosphere, but almost too cosy - not space for a table of 6 coffee enthusiasts! Would recommend for a date, but not with a big group - nevertheless, enjoyable coffee

H. S.

Food superb but queue to be served too long, spoilt the enjoyment of being with family as one person in q for half an hour

B. B.

What can I say, if you're visiting Durham and want to sit and eat some excellent homemade food. Seating can be found indoor or in the small outside seating area, very popular all year round.

H. K.

Great little cafe hidden in a side street in Durham, great selection of snacks as well as drinks. Last time I was hear I had the hot chocolate with all the extras and it was excellent.

S. C.

Delicious food. Lovely service. Completely dog friendly. Clean and safe. Loved it.

M. H.

Really good quality food, worth the effort up the very narrow passageway, gets busy, get in early.

P. W.

Lovely eatery ticked away on central Durham. Nice fresh food, good choices and range of foods.

R. K.

lovely quirky place, nice food and drinks, staff really nice and good service..... well done to you 👍💥💥💥

G. S.

Hidden away near the road to the cathedral.great menu for lunch etc.obviously very popular,as there was only one table left.very nice outdoor seating...Just need decent weather.

M. B.

Service: very friendly Value for money: + Quality (food/drinks): ++ Quantity (meal): + Ambience: ++ (one of the best looking cafés I have ever seen, cozy) Misc: terrace (inner courtyard), good tea (esp. if you take loose leaf; Pumphreys), cash or cheque only, one of my favourites in Durham Range: ++ + 0 - --

E. W.

Lovely cafe and fantastic outside seating. Peak time queuing was... bonkers though.

D. O.

Always been my favourite Durham cafe since I first ventured there as an undergraduate in the early 1990s. Their banoffee pie remains amazing.

D. C.

Vennels café is a lovely town centre haven ! Selling home made cakes and food. Outside courtyard with heaters for winter. The staff are great friendly and welcoming.

D.

Food cooked & baked on the premises. Be aware that this great little cafe does NOT accept card payments of any type. There is an ATM right across the road.

B. N.

Best cafe in Durham in the most secluded and secret place. Hidden up a narrow alley. Fabulous tea coffee and snacks. A hidden gem of a cafe

D. S.

Perfect stop for lunch time snack

A. F.

Great staff, great food and drink, interesting quirky contorted building. Loved it.

C. P.

Great Coffee, delicious sandwich, excellent and freshly baked scone and service with a smile!! Can't go wrong here!

A. A.

Great place, great home made food and a fascinating quirky building up an equally fascinating alley way. Worth queuing for.

J. “. C.

Nice quaint place. Nice coffee and scones. But they don't take cards ... Cash only. But they let you go across the road to the cash point........ very trusting staff

S. V.

Great place in Durham city ! You can seat outside all seasons and enjoy a good time with your friends or family 😉 The food is good and people are friendly. I recommend it without any hesitation 😉

M. M.

Gorgeous Carrot Cake, Lovely cup of tea. Staff so very friendly..highly recommended recomend

J. S.

Quite cramped to fit all 6 of our coffee connoisseurs but in the main it was an excellent flat white, the texture was perfect and the company was as ever entertaining

J. R.

Warm, clean, delightful,kind staff.

H. L.

Confused about the mustard walls. Lacking in space for six coffee lovers, however good tasting coffee and lively atmosphere. Would come back.

R. S. (.

Cute cafe in the centre of Durham City! Delicious cakes and some gluten free options too! Friendly service.

A. E.

Super nice atmosphere and décor. Staff are lovely. Only giving 4 stars due to a lack of covid safety restrictions.

R. C.

Easily the best café in Durham. Great home made food at great prices. Lovely atmosphere with outdoor seating available.

K. H.

A gem in the heart of Durham city. Very quaint and characterfull selling excellent cakes, pastries and coffee. Well worth a visit.

D. T.

Lovely cafe although the queues are long. Only had a hot chocolate but the food looked nice. Staff helpful and friendly.

A. D.

Great service and excellent choice of freshly prepared meals and deserts. Lovely inside and a courtyard if the weather is fine.

D. T.

Great place to go, great food, lovely staff and really nice environment. Well worth a visit.

B. Y.

Nice home cooked food. Not enough selection on main meals though. Prices are fair for what you get. Staff were helpful and freindly

H. B.

Warm, cosy and wholesome vibes. Good stuff really. A slight downfall would be the fact there isn't quite enough room for six coffee loving boys.

D. T.

Lovely homemade scones, and chocolate flakes for your cappuccino ❤

H.

Really lovely staff, nice coffee.

N. S.

Coffee was splendid and nice friendly atmosphere. However small corridors and tight staircases were tough to navigate with my brothers.

L. D.

Lovely hidden gem of Durham City, we are new to the area but deeply hope thos wonderful place survives the lockdown, food & drinks are resonably priced and great quality

H. w.

Realy nice sandwich. And home made cake.

J. R.

Excellent food selection with outdoor heated covered seating. Situated in historic City of Durham on appeal h to Cathedral.

C. G.

Visited today 5.8.18, greeted with a smile, courteous service, good food and lovely surroundings and building, clean floors, clean tables and all kept in good condition, food was great, nice cup of tea, good portion of food and drink at a reasonable price, a rare good around experience, definitely recommended a visit, certainly come back again ourselves, well done to the staff at Vennels Cafe.

E. P.

Good menu. Safe eating environment in the yard outside. Nice sunny spot.

A. B.

Best cafe and cakes in Durham. Beautiful aged ambiance.

G. N.

One of the best tea and coffee shops in old Durham Tucked away like a well kept secret Often busy though students and families Relaxed though

C. A.

Nice food, friendly, helpful staff. Usually pretty busy but there's never been a problem getting a table

s.

Nice atmosphere, great coffee, chocolate cake a little dry.... well worth a visit though

j. M.

Best cafe in Durham. The food is fantastic with generous portions. Staff could not be better and surroundings are spot on.

A. R.

Great selection of food and drink tucked away in a Parisian style courtyard. Wonderful.

g. o.

This is a must to go!! Beware though very studenty.. But still great.. Lots of room.. Loads of good food choice... Warm and friendly staff....

D. S.

Good olde worldwide cafe in Durham, very popular as food is good.

P. Y.

Housed in one of durham's historic buildings, offering home-cooked delights. Vennels is hidden away in a courtyard accessed by one of two tiny "vennels" or unfeasibly tight squeezes between old buildings. Outside courtyard seating is effectively warmed by infrared heaters.

T. H.

A lovely latte imbibed. A slightly tight squeeze for 6 people, but the coffee itself made the claustrophobic seating worth it.

j. S.

Brilliant place, but all scones had gone by the time we visited at 1:30pm. Friendly service though.

B. H.

Well organized for customer one way system, pity some of them have difficulty following instructions! Food and coffee excellent as usual.

T. R.

Interesting cafe. Nice outside seating area. Friendly staff. Good range of food and drink.

J. R.

Historical building to Durham, part of original walled buildings and alleys running to raised moat. Very good food and cakes for high tea.

K. M.

Friendly cafe with delicious homemade soups and food. Not too busy early on a Sunday so finding a table upstairs not a problem.

V. E.

Gorgeous cafe, lovely food, really nice staff.

J. N.

Lovely little cafe with some nice food. The staff were nice and very friendly, would definitely go back again

J. A. G.

Fantastic sandwiches. I love the little terrace they have at the back. Charming

M. S.

Delicious soup and home made bread. Favourite lunch venue in Durham . Lovely building too

C. R.

Great food and the staff are always pleasent. A very quirky cafe in the middle of Durham.

D. M.

absolutely lovey, really friendly staff and great cakes and sandwiches. the courtyard is nice in the sunshine

j. W.

Lovely cafe it has a lovely courtyard with seating outside the coffee and food are very good I'd definitely recommend it

L. G.

Tasty, quaint. Does alcohol. Staff friendly and trusting (they don't take card but they allowed me to eat and then run to the atm after)

D. A.

Great service, staff and food reflecting Durham City.

R. M.

I just love this place. Good coffee and eats. Lovely for sitting outside in the fresh air - even in the winter!

L. C.

Food delicious. Well worth a visit.Has been updated since covid.Prices have increased

D. P.

The food is good but the portion sizes seem much smaller than they used to be.

S. A.

Always a nice quite spot in the centre of Durham to get some lunch-the portion sizes are a little on the large side.

R.

Lovely cake and setting. Lost a star because they don't take cards, which I think is a bit crazy for 2019!

C. R.

Friendly service, tasty food and a really lovely old building. No wonder there was a queue

O.

Superb long-standing cosy local café with small dishes and all home-made bakeries.Do not miss!

D. Q.

Perfect spot for lunch. A nice covered and heated out door area, good choice of food and some really nice cakes

S. M.

Lovely breakfast. Good value and quick service.

W. F.

A lovely environment and the cakes are beyond delicious and very rich 😀. A lovely cafe to go to!

n. q.

Good food, nice staff, just not a buggy friendly place, but sadly Durham city has a lot of non buggy friendly places

W. G.

Fabulous cakes, attractive setting and friendly service. Iconic

J. B.

Delicious scones. Nice off-street outdoor area as well.

E. W.

Best thing about this place is its interior. The coffee is just okay, but they do a great pavlova.

M. I.

One of my favourite spots in Durham. Stuff are friendly, café& cakes are good.

B. N.

Lovely decor, atmosphere and food

d. L.

Very enjoyable food and experience

m. f.

Nice little courtyard away from the street, the Stilton scones are lovely.

J. B.

Tea and scone nice but oatmilk latte was only average

L. G.

Love the place, come there often and its dog friendly.

T. H.

Generous, good quality food

M. Y.

Great place to meet friends. Pleasant, courteous staff , gorgeous food and coffee , outdoor seating area

T. H.

Tasty cafe nestled in the heart of the old part of Durham. Good price, good hot chocolate.

g.

Great food and location. A true hidden treasure of Durham. The staff were great.

T. H.

Best cafe in Durham. Great to have it open again.

D. S.

Great traditional tea shop/cafe in centre of Durham. Tried many items and all good

T. L. G.

Good food and really well laid out for Covid security. They took good care of us.

H. B.

Had a really delicious lunch here on a day trip. Quaint historical place with lovely decoration.

S. E.

What a fantastic find. Good wholesome local food and fantastic staff. A must for lunch in Durham.

H.

Tucked away off the thoroughfare and all homemade delights with a happy and helpful team of staff allowing a restful and delicious Greek salad, pot of tea and slice of cake whilst reading my book

H. E.

Great Café, maybe a tad on the expensive side but a lovely atmosphere, friendly staff and great food

G. M.

Beautiful café taked away in this quiet square! Nice food and very friendly staff.

S. M.

Best place in the city for a cuppa and a scone or sandwich. Always come here for lunch when I'm in the city for work.

C. C.

Always a pleasant visit..delicious food and coffee with great staff...a Durham institution ☕🍰💖

P. W.

Wonderful! Their banoffee pie, coffee cake, and strawberry cream meringues are to die for.

A. B.

Always good,, loverly food and nice atmosphere,, relaxing stop off,,

J. B.

This is one of my favourite cafes in Durham - 16th century building with great food and drink.

K. C.

The best scones, the coziest space, the nicest people. A haven and a delight.

J. S.

You won't be disappointed if you call in here , 1st class.

A. G.

Amazing coffee and cake and good value for money. Great little location too.

k. O.

Food good, cakes to die for. My favourite place to eat in Durham.

w. m.

Great little cafe with fab food. Hidden gem in Durham. Just after the DM shop

S. g.

Great sandwich, cake and coffee.

N. R.

Lovely cakes on offer and a very tasty hot chocolate

S. H.

Charming place, lovely outside, friendly staff, tasty food

R. C.

A real great place.

J. M.

Great coffee, friendly staff. It's a regular maze, most charming.

m. c.

Beautiful bacon buttie and brew. Highly recommended.

C. C.

This cafe is a hidden gem and thoroughly enjoyed my lunch and atmosphere.

D. S.

Friendly café with indoor seating and a small, sunny courtyard. Access is through a small passageway off Saddler St.

B. h.

Absolutely lovely spot for a bite to eat whilst shopping! Lovely service as well!

D. J.

What a great venue, good value for money, loved it

d. k.

If you are in durham make the effort to come here. Food is great at a good price.

C. W.

Hidden away little gem, rustic and calming with a great range of home bakes

G. S.

Lovely home cooked food and friendly service. We need more places like this!!

O.

Nice cosy cafe, always a friendly welcome and great service

N. T.

Lovely home baked goods and outside courtyard is lovely.

I. T.

Lovely coffee shop serving home made food, well worth a visit

J. Z.

Lovely cafe in the centre of Durham.

N. W.

Good food and drinks and great service

G. T.

Cash only however good food, friendly staff. Also had upstairs seating

M. L.

Not particularly glam, but good food and drinks. More space upstairs!

A. P.

Fab food . The only downside to this place is carrying your tray upstairs. The stairs are a bit narrow.

J. R.

Great food, helpful and friendly service.

C. A.

Lovely central cage with an enclosed canopied yard. Well priced too.

r. M.

Quite overpriced for what it was. It was ok for a quick bite though

A. S.

Always lovely food and a wonderful outdoor seating area.

G. R.

Cute place. I would recommend the hot chocolate - absolutely delicious!

M. T.

Great coffee. Friendly staff. Delicious banoffee pie!

J. C.

Lovely setting. Good food.

P. J.

We love vennels although not the easiest place to get a push chair it's worth the struggle once you're there.

E. B.

Lovely duck wrap with hot chocolate drink everyone was pleasant an

H. M.

Sat Oct n the courtyard. Great brownies!

B.

Lovely cosy spot in a rustic building with courtyard

M. P.

Came by recommendation - was thoroughly justified a peaceful oasis away from the crowd

M. S.

The Staff are very friendly serving very nice food

A. J.

Interesting cafe hidden away along a very narrow close in the city centre

S. C.

Pleasant cafe with nice selection of food and cakes.

P. P. S.

Nice cake and hot chocolate drinks. I will definitely come back. 💖💖💖

N. C.

Good food. Good value. Superb service and comfortable

S. A.

Lovely food friendly staff. A hidden gem

J. A.

They do good coffee and amazing scones

T. W.

Lovely places, quiet and friendly

C. B.

Very pleasant and helpful staff. Nothing too much trouble

D. A.

Brilliant place. Cosy. Very nice helpful staff

J. P.

Great food friendly staff and good value

A. L.

Superb food in a quirky setting. Just finding it conjures up a Dickensian alley.

v.

Cozy cafe, carrot cake was gorgeous!

J. B.

Great cappuccino and fab carrot cake

S. G.

Decent cup of tea and simple food in the centre of Durham

R. D.

Lovely building & great food, try the Cornbeef pje

E.

Visit here every time I come to Durham, best coffee shop in the city

S. D.

Fabulous food. Friendly staff. Very quaint

J. H.

This place is a little gem, I thoroughly recommend a visit

D. E.

Wot a little diamond great service and great food cheers

R. S.

Great place for breakfast!

J. C.

Fab food great staff been going for years

S. C.

Decent coffee shop. Lovely bannoffe pie

L. D.

Great home cooked food friendly staff

S. B.

Great place and the staff are so friendly and helpful going the extra mile.

R. D.

Very good food and reasonably priced.

B. G.

Out of the way and quiet. Always had the best chocolate cake

Z.

Very good cafe

D. R.

Central location, friendly staff, great food.

N. B.

Always excellent food, drinks & service.

M. A.

Love it , great place with variety of delicious choices

W. D.

Great food and lovely people.

M. H.

Some of the chairs are really uncomfortable. Everything else is excellent.

R. S.

Lovely food in a lovely building with lovely staff.

C. W.

Lovely little tea room for tea and cake

b. t.

Always beautiful cake 🍰👍

M. d.

Hidden gem tucked away in the centre of Durham.

J. S.

Hidden gem. Exceptional customer service and food.

c. h.

Say no more probably the best coffee shop in Durham

B. S. T.

Lovely cafe in the heart of Durham City.

S. B.

100% better than the chain coffee shops

M. W.

Really nice food and oldie world surroundings

P. M.

Love there scones

S. M.

Great Vietnamese foor

S. B.

Great good great portions great staff great customers

K. L.

Best quiche I have ever tasted

P. A.

Nice setting and decent filter coffee.

Y. T.

Cheese&onion burger ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐Soup⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

P. P.

Nice coffee and friendly service

T. M.

Nice environment, good service. Thanks

B. M.

Good service. Exceptional food

P. B.

Good selection of food good coffee

a. s.

Amazing coffee and cakes

E. R.

Lovely cafe with great soups

R. B.

Great place good foods and coffee

A. C.

The quiche is out of this world.

J. “. S.

Excellent scones

S. B.

Preferred it before recent makeover.

H. M.

Great food Really old.

s. h.

Great place with nice cakes

m. v.

The staff were really friendly.

J. P.

Vvery good but it costs a lot of money

R. N.

marvellous cakes and nice atmosphere

D. M.

Nice to keep it a secret...but.... enjoy.

E. T.

Lovely good. Great choice

C. R.

Cosy venue . Great food.

f. m.

Just the best cafe in town

H. H.

Always great food.

M. D.

Excellent food and service.

P. N.

Great cafe up an alley !

C. W.

Very cramped food OK just

R. S.

Very good portions of nosh

k. f.

Always a place we visit when in Durham.

J. C.

Nice place for a snack and a drink.

A. T.

Amazing friendly service. X

b. w.

Good food

F. R.

Take your mother here. Bring cash.

M. V.

good food and good service.

A. S.

Really lovely atmosphere!

C. D.

Very nice sandwiches

E. B.

lovely! - always good.

J. T.

Friendly place with lots of seating

K. G.

Fab place so quaint

N. M.

Love it.

R. W.

Brilliant first class

C. K.

Lovely little place.

E. J.

Fabulous Fantastic Marvellous

C. M.

Excellent as always 😋

p. b.

Nice scones

K. H.

Cute tea shop

S. M.

AMAZING

M. T.

Lovely

F. m.

Trip down memory lane

V. S.

Great place

S. E.

Good always good

C.

Nice simple food

J. G.

Fab quiche and cake

S. S.

This place is brilliant.

K. H.

banoffee is great

A. C.

Beautiful food

M. S.

Lovely place.

A. A.

Great place

C. M.

Yummy cakes

S. M.

Amazing food

R. H.

Best in Durham

J. d.

Spot on grub

I. F.

Lovely little cafe, really good food and a chilled atmosphere. Friendly staff and sensible prices. What more could you ask for

F. A.

(Translated) I liked the place very much in terms of colors and decorations. The cafe is an old house. The general atmosphere is good (Original) اعجبني المكان كثيرا من حيث الالوان والديكورات المقهى عبارة عن منزل قديم الجو العام جيد

A.

M. C.

(Translated) Excellent place, very good attention and quality products (Original) Excelente lugar , muy buena atención y calidad en los productos

C. B.

J. L.

(Translated) Excellent coffee. (Original) Excellent café.

M. B.

A. M.

A. W.

M. M.

B. C.

E. “. d. M. H. F. G.

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