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Buying a new home near Durham has many benefits – excellent transport links, access to a variety of leisure and activities, and importantly, proximity to a selection of truly fantastic places to eat and drink.
Witton Gilbert's location in particular means living in the village offers a perfect blend of semi-rural calm, with easy-access to excellent restaurants, cozy cafès and charming tearooms.
Below are five of our top picks close to Witton Gilbert, whether you're in the mood for fish and chips, pancakes or something a little fancier.
1. Fat Hippo
Where is it? Saddler Street, Durham City Centre.
Established in nearby Newcastle Upon Tyne in 2010, Durham was Fat Hippo's first location outside of its home City, and it has since become a favourite for locals and visitors alike.
A burger restaurant renowned for its quirky flavours and delicious hand cut 'dirty' fries, Fat Hippo is the perfect setting for a no-fuss yet delicious meal with friends.
Our pick of the menu: The PB + JJ burger is a staple (or the Harlem Fake if you're looking for a great vegan option).
2. Coarse
Where is it? North Road, Durham City Centre.
Coarse restaurant in Durham offers a refined dining experience with a focus on locally sourced, seasonal ingredients and creative British flavours.
Known for its multi-course tasting menu, Coarse serves dishes that showcase the finest produce and culinary craftsmanship.
Buying a home in Witton Gilbert places you just a short drive from this elegant spot, where you can savour Durham's best modern cuisine in a sophisticated setting — a wonderful choice for special occasions or an elevated night out.
Our pick of the menu: It has to be the 6-course tasting menu they're famous for, with a special shoutout to their lobster sandwich.
3. Flat White Kitchen
Where is it? Sadler Street, Durham City Centre.
Flat White Kitchen is a popular spot for brunch lovers and coffee aficionados. Located in a charming five-story Georgian building, it offers an all-day brunch menu with options like avocado toast, pancakes, and full English breakfasts, along with some of the best artisan coffee in Durham.
Its relaxed atmosphere and friendly service make it a great spot to start the day or catch up with friends, and its central location in Durham means it’s just a short drive from Witton Gilbert.
Our pick of the menu: Their delicious house fry with Cumberland sausages, smoked bacon, Yorkshire black pudding, poached egg and more.
4. The Travellers Rest
Where is it? Front Street, Witton Gilbert.
Set just a stone's throw from our Beauford Park development on Front Street in Witton Gilbert, The Travellers Rest would be your new local, and this traditional family-friendly pub has a lot to offer.
Pop in on an evening after work for a drink and a burger, or take a stroll over on a Sunday for a hearty roast. Their menu is extensive, so there's sure to be something for the whole family.
Our pick of the menu: You can't go wrong with their traditional Sunday roast or mince and dumplings.
5. 26 Elvet
Where is it? Elvet Bridge, Durham City Centre.
26 Elvet is one of Durham's newest coffee and brunch spots – opening its doors in June 2026 – and it's already becoming a favourite among locals.
With a variety of lighter options such as granola, porridge and fruit pancakes, or a traditional full English or eggs benedict, their menu caters to all appetites.
Our pick of the menu: If you're a matcha lover, their mango matcha is a must-try, and their halloumi and avocado salad is the perfect lunchtime pick-me-up.
Ready to find your dream new home in Witton Gilbert and have all these on your doorstep? Discover Beauford Park, an exclusive development of 29 three, four and five-bedroom homes just four miles from Durham City.
