Number Twenty 2 Darlington is set to celebrate 30 years

It is 30 years this week since Number Twenty 2, located at 20-22 Coniscliffe Road, first obtained its license, paving the way for what would become one of Darlington’s most renowned drinking venues and opening the door for other similar ventures.

Number Twenty 2, set to officially mark its 30th birthday next March, transformed Darlington’s pub scene and continues to be a beloved fixture in the community.

Number Twenty 2 Coniscliffe Road in Darlington (Image: STAFF) The story of its origins goes back to October 1994, when Ralph Wilkinson, the original owner, successfully secured a restricted license after facing tough scrutiny by the Licensing Justices at the Magistrates Court.

This was due, in part, to his solicitor Alan Vickers, who argued that the venue should be considered an alehouse rather than a pub, because at the time, Darlington had restrictions on opening new pubs west of Skinnergate and Grange Road, due to the legacy of the town’s Quaker roots.

This meant that the license came with several strict conditions, including a ban on spirits, no trade on a Sunday allowed and only ales, wines and porters to be sold.

Despite these limitations, Number Twenty 2 opened its doors in March 1995 and quickly gained a reputation for its diverse selection of high-quality beers, particularly its focus on real ale.

One of its most famous offerings, White Boar, which was created by Ralph himself, set the pub apart from the more traditional venues that had previously dominated the town.

Before Number Twenty 2, the location was home to a short-lived restaurant called ‘Bavadage’. But when Ralph took over, he had a “clear vision.”

Number Twenty 2, Coniscliffe Road, when they first got the keys (Image: Ralph Wilkinson) Drawing from his experience he had with The Tap & Spile Pubs when running The Famous Firkin Supply Company and wholesaling around Edinburgh and Glasgow, Ralph aimed to bring something new and refreshing to Darlington.

“30 years ago to me now appears as if it were the dark ages,” he said.

“Since then, Darlington has seen about 12 to 14 new bars open around the road creating a culture around Darlington which I love.”

Number Twenty 2 quickly became a success and was acclaimed from its early years. By 1998, just three years after opening, it was named runner-up in the prestigious Campaign for Real Ale (CAMRA) National Pub of the Year competition.

Ralph’s decision to hand over the reigns of the business last November, when he turned 68, was not one taken lightly. However, he entrusted the pub to Vicki Ramsay, who had worked alongside him for 15 years. 

“It was an easy decision to hand over the keys to Vicki,” Ralph said. “She has always upheld what Number Twenty 2 is all about and she has managed to keep that fantastic atmosphere and family feel that everyone loves about the place.”

Vicki Ramsay and Ralph Wilkinson handing over the keys (Image: Ralph Wilkinson) Reflecting on his departure, Ralph added: “I have missed it quite a lot, but it’s fantastic to still see the amazing staff and customers all come together as one massive family, and I’m glad that legacy has remained.”

In keeping with tradition, Ralph has avoided visiting the pub as a real customer since stepping down, apart from the odd coffee, but he does plan to return on November 1 this year, after giving Vicki a full year to establish her own direction.

Over the years, the Darlington pub scene has flourished, with more than a dozen new bars opening, many following suit on Coniscliffe Road.

Yet Number Twenty 2 remains a cornerstone of the local scene.

"We have always focused on quality and looking after people,"said  Ralph. "That I believe is something that has helped us become and stay so successful over the years."

The pub's interior has evolved subtly over the decades, reflecting Ralph’s vision of making "evolutionary rather than revolutionary changes” to the place.

NumberTwenty2 back in the day, 1995, when it first opened (Image: Ralph Wilkinson) There is one major change afoot outside the bar - and the major upcoming works to create an outdoor seating area on Coniscliffe Road is something Ralph is excited about.

"It’s a fantastic thing for the road, I am envious of Vicki as it gives her a great start to create something new and just as special for Number Twenty 2,” he said.

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  Today, under Vicki Ramsay Hammond’s management, Number Twenty 2 offers more than 20 beers and ciders on tap, as well as alcohol-free options and a variety of other drinks.

Vicki acknowledged the pressure of taking over such a well-established business, saying: "Thankfully, the customers have continued to support Number Twenty 2 and its staff, some of whom have worked for Ralph since the doors first opened."

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As the pub approaches its official 30th birthday in March, it continues to honour its roots while evolving to meet modern demands.

"Over 30 years, Ralph has built not just an institution but a community," Vicki said. "Hopefully, we will be lucky enough to toast to another 30 years!"

From its modest beginnings with a restricted license to its current status as a renowned destination for beer lovers, Number Twenty 2 remains a vital part of Darlington, embodying the town’s evolving drinking culture and its continued passion for Real Ale.