New cocktail bar to open in former Avalon, Darlington

Construction crews have stripped back the interior of Avalon as a major refurbishment of the 8 Blackwellgate venue gets underway.

The popular bar - which reopened in June to show Euros matches - was previously closed in March this year, when bosses cited the cost of living and rising prices. 

But it has now been confirmed that Avalon has closed for good. 

Avalon, in Darlington, has been a popular bar in the town for years (Image: THE NORTHERN ECHO)

The news has been met with great sadness across the town, with people branding it as their “favourite night out” and a place for “belting nights out”.

DJ Paul Stoker, who performed at the venue over the years, said: “Avalon no more. Nothing lasts forever. Had some of the best times out on that terrace. 

“Mad to think we had Michael Bibi and Solardo out here when you look at them now. Hope it’s a big success.” 

Another person said: “All things come to an end... Good luck to the new owners and team... Hopefully, it does well and thrives once more.” 

Major refurb works are now underway at the site, with the front windows being covered over by boards and the interior filled with new decor. 

It will soon become home to the Cherry Tree Cocktail Bar, which recently launched a new Facebook page. 

Pictures from the inside of the bar show how seating and booths near the front of the site have been removed, with a message teasing that it’s “going to look a lot different than it did before”.

Details about the Cherry Tree remain sparse at the moment, however, it is understood that Avalon’s DJ booth in the back garden will remain. 

As previously reported, Avalon became known for its strong DJ lineup, drag performances, and special guests, becoming one of the town’s hotspot late night venues. 

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At the time, they cited tackling “rising costs of utilities, rent increases, staff cost, alcohol tax increases, business rates, taxes” and more on the closure. 

Avalon did enjoy a brief return for the Euros football tournament - with bosses then saying the doors would be open “for the foreseeable future”  because “it’s what the people want.”

Do you have many memories of Avalon? Share them in the comments below.