When it comes to finding the right cocktail for you in the North East, there is a huge variety to choose from across the region.
Do you fancy a zesty porn star martini, something shaken or stirred?
Whether it is from a classic recipe or a 2-4-1 happy hour, there is something for everyone to enjoy now the evenings are lighter for longer.
That's why we have put together a selection of some of the best bars to try a cocktail in the North East according to their Tripadvisor reviews - each rating has a minimum of 4.0.
Some of the best cocktail bars in the North East
WC Newcastle
Location: WC Newcastle, Bigg Market, Newcastle upon Tyne, NE1 1UW
Opening times: Monday-Thursday: 2pm-11pm, Friday: 2pm-12am, Saturday: 12pm-12am and Sunday: 2pm-12am.
Rating: 4/5
One person wrote: “Such a great little hideaway. I’ve been here twice now and absolutely loved it. You absolutely forget your in a former place for toilets!
“You definitely have to take this place for what it is, a specialty cocktail place. It has such a great array of cocktails in their menu and it just makes me want to go back time and time again to try them all.
“The ambience was great, and even though it’s small, each table feels somewhat private due to the seperaters inbetween.
“Looking forward to returning to these Lavish Lavatories.”
Read the rest of the reviews on Tripadvisor.
Mr Ant’s Bar
Location: 22 Priestpopple, Hexham, NE46 1PQ
Opening times: Monday-Thursday: 12pm-11pm, Friday: 12pm-12.30am, Saturday: 12pm-12am and Sunday: 3pm-11pm
Rating: 4.5/5
A customer left this review: “Called in on a frosty Wednesday evening. Fab layout, great logistics. I had a simple kraken and coke. Served exceptionally well, squeeze of lime, lots of ice. Worth a visit all day (and night) long.”
Read the rest of the reviews on Tripadvisor.
Tiger Hornsby
Location: Quayside, 8-10 Close, Newcastle upon Tyne, NE1 3RE
Opening times: Tuesday-Thursday: 4pm-12am, Friday-Saturday: 12pm-3am and Sunday: 12pm-11.30pm
Rating: 4/5
This visitor left this review: “Last night, my date and I paid a visit to Tiger Hornsby as we heard that they had phenomenal cocktails. We were not disappointed.
“What information online had neglected to mention was that they also had superb service. This came in the form of a member of staff called Alex who diligently and attentively served us.
“Throughout the evening, we sampled a variety of cocktails. All were delicious and of excellent quality, carefully prepared by the friendly staff.
“However, principal among these was Alex who attended to our table with promptness and courtesy, even when the venue became busy. Thank you, Alex, for facilitating a wonderful romantic evening.”
Read the rest of the reviews on Tripadvisor.
Old Tom’s Gin Bar
Location: 33 Riverwalk, Durham, DH1 4SL
Opening times: Monday-Thursday: 10am-11pm, Friday-Saturday: 10am-1pm, Sunday: 10am-11pm
Rating: 4.5/5
One user said: “Lovely and quirky little bar. We did the gin tasting experience which was very good value.
“We were well looked after by Jess who was very knowledgeable about the gins and this made the experience for me. The food we got with it was also wonderful. I would definitely go back.”
Read the rest of the reviews on Tripadvisor.
Tin of Sardines
Location: 18 Elvet Bridge, Durham, DH1 3AA
Opening times: Monday-Thursday: 2pm-10.30pm, Friday: 2pm-11.30pm, Saturday: 12pm-11.30pm and Sunday: 12pm-10.30pm
Rating: 4.5/5
One person wrote this review: “Follow the advice of the staff and try something new - they are very knowledgeable and have lots of unusual gins and tonics. eg rhubarb and hibiscus, or olive and rosemary with onion juice gin (sounds unlikely but tasted good).
“On a sunny day you can sit outside and people watch on the Elvet Bridge; if you go before 6pm doubles were on discount. Alcohol free cocktails also possible. Great staff.”
Read the rest of the reviews on Tripadvisor.
The Nuthatch Middlesbrough
Location: 9 - 11 Bedford Street, Middlesbrough, TS1 2LL
Opening times: Thursday-Friday: 5pm-10pm and Saturday: 3pm-10pm
Rating: 4.5/5
A customer wrote: “We went to the Nuthatch for my birthday and had a lovely time. The Cocktails were delicious and the customer service was excellent! I even received a birthday card on arrival. We will definitely be back soon.”
Read the rest of the reviews on Tripadvisor.
No28
Location: 27-29 Nelson Street, Newcastle upon Tyne, NE1 5AN
Opening times: Monday-Thursday: 5pm-3am, Friday-Sunday: 12pm-3am
Rating: 4/5
Read the rest of the reviews on Tripadvisor.
This visitor said: “Mia, Steph and Jason were comedy gold on the bar made our experience a good one!
“Cocktails were spectacular and service great! Had a beautiful table as well great for our date night very comfy.
"A hidden gem will definitely be back!!”
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules here