With the weather turning chilly this week, many of us have been left craving a gravy-slathered meal in front of a roaring fire. 

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. So, read on to discover your new favourite place for pub grub!

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. 

Their Sunday lunch menu has options to suit all tastes - ranging from the traditional roast pork loin to gastro-specialities such as slow-roasted brisket, and even a vegetarian haggis option.

The Forge

The Avenue The Green, Washington NE38 7AB

The ‘Old Smithy’ in Washington Village, is a 400 year old Grade II Listed building.

The building has had a colourful past, formerly; a blacksmith’s forge, stables and even a pottery, it is famed locally for its connection to the capture of the highwayman Robert Hazlit, who was arrested and subsequently hanged after being spotted by a local lad, having his horse shod here by the resident blacksmith.

Things are slightly different these days.

Now ‘The Forge’, the building has undergone a full restoration and has been transformed into an eclectic, vibrant eatery, serving the highest quality, locally sourced, wholesome fresh food this side of the river.

The Green Tree

(Image: TRIPADVISOR)

41 Tudhoe Village Tudhoe, Spennymoor DL16 6LE

Based in Spennymoor, this pub is known for breakfasts, lunches and Sunday dinner. It has been handed an accolade of having brilliant Yorkshire puddings and beef, and is a muyst-go to if you're in the area. 

People that reviewed it on TripAdvisor have called it a 'must visit' and a 'hidden gem' in the County Durham food world.

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 Shepherd & Shepherdess

Entrance Gate, Beamish, Stanley DH9 0RS

Called a "traditional" and "quirky" pub, The Shepherd & Shepherdess has built its name on being a 'no nonsense' pub with good food and great service.

One diner said: "Nice little pub with a beer garden and play area for children. Service is very good and the food was also good and reasonable prices."

The Crown at Mickleton

The Crown, at Mickleton. 

Mickleton, Barnard Castle DL12 0JZ England

This rustic-chic pub with countryside views offers high quality, locally sourced food, real ales and fine wines in a cosy country pub.

The Crown has also been praised for its "spot on" Sunday lunch menu, with pleased Tripadvisor reviewers saying it is the best they have had.

One wrote: Absolutely the best Sunday lunch we have tasted (and we are very fussy!!). So fresh, perfect Yorkshire puddings, amazing gravy, and veg cooked to perfection.

"Quality rather than quantity. The apple crumble is the best!! I can't wait to go back in winter with the fire on. It is a must, you won't be disappointed."