With the days getting shorter and darker, all many of us want to do is sit in front of a fire with a tasty and gravy-laden meal - so there is no better antidote than a roast dinner!

Using Trip Advisor, we have compiled a list of the best spots for a Sunday roast in County Durham, with options to suit all budgets and diets.

The Three Horseshoes

The Northern Echo:

Running Waters, Durham, DH1 2SR

One of the top restaurants in Durham, The Three Horseshoes has secured itself a reputation for affordable but delicious food. 

As well as tasty meals, the Three Horseshoes has a rich history of serving County Durham patrons, as it has stood in its current location for over 100 years. In times gone by, it served a thriving mining community but has transformed over the last few decades into a popular destination for food and real ale. 

The Copper Beech, Neasham Road, Darlington

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The Copper Beech can offer customers a classic Sunday dinner for a fair price, while also offering a great service.

The venue has received four-and-a-half stars out of five for food, service and value.

It’s also managed to pick itself up a TripAdvisor 2021 Travellers’ Choice Award.

The venue has scored 257 five-star reviews and 65 four-star reviews out of 380 altogether.

One person said: “Just been for Sunday lunch we got 2 beef dinners extra gravy and pigs in blankets portions are excellent really tasty food aswell my partner had a coffee and a gin and tonic I had a pint of coke as I was driving excellent service and worth the £31.50 I paid.

“This is the 3rd time I have been for a meal absolutely fantastic food and made to feel welcome. Keep up the good work highly recommended make sure you book a table as people were getting turned away due to no spare tables.”

The Poachers

Bridge Street Metal Bridge, Durham DH6 5LQ England

Deemed by one reviewer to be "the best place in the area", The Poachers in Durham has an extensive menu, with plenty of options suitable for a Sunday dinner, including lamb chops and gammon. 

Burtree Inn, Darlington

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For the second place, The Burtree Inn in Darlington is rated four stars out of five from 514 reviews, putting it in a favourable place. 

Boasting vegetarian options, vegan choices and a range of cuisine, it's the Sunday roast that stands out for many people on the reviews.

One person said: "Very pleased with the menu at Burtree. I chose Nut roast. Surprised by the size of the meal. Served with roast potatoes, mashed potato, mashed swede, cabbage, carrots and a Yorkshire pudding. Also served with vegan gravy. Too much on the plate for my appetite but I definitely enjoyed it and would recommend. All food was served hot and tasty. Excellent meal."

The Church Mouse 

Waldbridge Front Street The Vintage Inns, Chester Moor DH2 3RJ England

The Church Mouse pub serves a range of hearty roasts, bringing plenty of cheer to a chilly winter weekend. All of the classics are available, with beef, turkey, and pork on the menu, as well as a candied vegetable roast if you fancy something a little lighter. 

The Farmers Arms 

The Northern Echo:

South Side Shadforth, Durham DH6 1LL England

Known for being a little bit quirky, this classic community pub "with a twist" has built a name for itself on its home-cooked food - meaning it is usually busy with loyal patrons.

In addition to its bright and busy atmosphere, you can expect great food for a fair price; especially when it comes to Sunday lunches. 

One happy customer wrote: "Service was excellent, food was excellent and the overall atmosphere in the pub was upbeat and enjoyable. We will be visiting again very soon!"

The Clubhouse Kitchen & Bar, Hurworth-on-Tees

The Clubhouse Kitchen and Bar is open all day for breakfast, lunch and dinner. it is the perfect venue for tucking into popular and wholesome British classic roast whilst drinking in the stunning views across Rockliffe Hall's 18 hole Championship golf course. Dishes are homely and comforting, with a touch of ‘Rockliffe flair’. 

Bistro Citron VertThe Northern Echo:

1 Wellington Street High Pittington, Durham DH6 1AZ England

This canny little bistro has carved out a name for itself by serving Sunday dinners - despite specialising in French cuisine. 

One reviewer labelled the restaurant "consistently fabulous", and another promised to be back again to try the whole menu. 

With the Sunday lunch being so popular, it is necessary to book in advance to ensure a table at this gorgeous independent restaurant. 

The Otter and Fish, Hurworth-on-Tees

Overlooking the river tees in the picturesque village of Hurworth close to the north Yorkshire border.

Fully refurbished inside & out to the highest standard, creating an ambiance second to none, in what has to be the best interior in the area.

Family owned & run since 2006, they pride ourselves on our food & service.

Their menus and service create a warm & welcoming atmosphere with the emphasis on food & service, ensuring a great experience. 

The Old Farmhouse, Darlington

The Old Farmhouse in Darlington is a country pub & restaurant oozing rural charm and rustic character.

The picturesque surroundings provide the perfect backdrop for savouring the hearty, seasonal pub-food on our menu, and the carefully nurtured cask ales and fine wines gracing the bar.

The Foresters Arms, Darlington

The Foresters Arms went under extensive refurbishment in September 2015 and changed under new experienced management team.

The mission of the pub was to bring back a community facility and high quality cuisine. The Foresters Arms is set in the rural outskirts of Darlington Town Centre in a countryside environment.

The Pub boasts generous outside space,with a alfresco courtyard, small children's play area and parking available for 30 vehicles.

The interior is warming and comforting with open fire perfect for relaxed evenings and gatherings.

At the Foresters the restaurant is open Tuesday to Saturday offering high quality British cuisine, Sunday opening is offering the full Sunday lunch experience.