Darlington’s newest cocktail bar has opened its doors for the first time - and bosses have teased “grand plans” for its future. 

The beer taps have been turned on and the cocktails are well and truly flowing as The Cherry Tree, on Blackwellgate, welcomes its first customers tonight (Friday, November 15). 

The former Avalon has had a major transformation, with new pictures showing off the luxurious new furniture, hanging foliage, and elegant lighting fixtures, all topped off with a new look bar. 

Work has been ongoing to revamp the site for several weeks, with new signs being erected on the venue’s front just last weekend.

The Cherry Tree, in DarlingtonThe Cherry Tree, in Darlington (Image: CHERRY TREE) The Cherry Tree, in DarlingtonThe Cherry Tree, in Darlington (Image: CHERRY TREE)

And while punters will be able to enjoy the world of "exclusive cocktails and master mixologists" from Friday, there are many more plans in the pipeline for the Cherry Tree. 

The bar will early next year install a new kitchen and plans to launch bottomless brunches, themed events, and more. 

Fans of the former Avalon will know the garden and its DJ decks were always a big draw - and bosses have teased that the new-look garden will be “amazing” when the summer months come around next year.

The Cherry Tree, in DarlingtonThe Cherry Tree, in Darlington (Image: CHERRY TREE)

One of the owners of the cocktail bar, Rema Uddin, told The Northern Echo: “Darlington is a fantastic town and we are delighted to be opening up in Darlington’s Imperial Quarter. 

“We have got loads of ideas and can’t wait to bring these to life. The garden is huge and we have grand plans for this so expect something a bit different. 

“In early 2025 we will start to do food and will be bringing a wide range of bottomless experiences to The Cherry Tree. 

The Cherry Tree, in DarlingtonThe Cherry Tree, in Darlington (Image: CHERRY TREE)

“It’s exciting times, and we are looking forward to welcoming everyone.”


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As previously reported, it was the “end of an era” when Avalon confirmed it had shut the doors for good just weeks ago - but now a new chapter has opened for the Blackwellgate unit. 

Many people have commented about their excitement for the new bar, with future customers branding the first look pictures of the interior as “amazing”. 

One person said: “Love this, it looks amazing. Well done and good luck.”