Our Favourite Wine Bars in the North East
Plus, where to buy bottles to bring home
Veeno
The location of this wine bar is great, with unbeatable views of the river in Durham. There’s a strong Italian influence here across everything from the wine to the nibbles and small plates – olives and wine in the sunshine is a must.
Unit 12 The Gates, The Riverwalk, Durham DH1 4SL
@veeno_uk
Crush Wine Bar
Expert guidance is guaranteed at this independent wine bar run by the former head sommelier of Rockliffe Hall and two Michelin-starred Raby Hunt. The space is small but smart, and wine options cover an entire wall of the space. Indulge in delicious charcuterie with a glass of their best.
76 North Road, Durham DH1 4SQ
@crushdurham
The Inglenook Wine Bar and Merchants
This is a new spot in Barnard Castle we love, with a less is more ethos. The selection of wine here is carefully chosen and streamlined, making choosing your tipple easy. The team are experts and regularly host tasting events, and the bar doubles as a merchants so you can take any new discoveries home.
42 The Bank, Barnard Castle DL12 8PN
@the.inglenook
Angels’ Share
A self-serve wine bar in the leafy suburb of Jesmond offering small plates and nibbles – what’s not to love? The vibe is relaxed and contemporary inside, and the staff are happy to give expert advice if you’re in need of guidance.
53–55 St George's Terrace, Jesmond NE2 2SX
@angelssharejesmond
Say When
This lively self-service bar began on Gosforth High Street and has recently expanded into Ponteland with a second location. The choice here is excellent and the venues always draw a crowd. The Ponteland space has an outdoor deck for sipping in the sun.
109–111 High Street, Gosforth NE3 1HB
9 Bell Villas, Ponteland NE20 9BD
@saywhenbars
The Wine Bar
Sheepfolds Stables recently added a lavish new wine bar and is all the better for it. Expect a good range of hand-picked wines as well as Champagne and cocktails. The space is right next door to the Taproom and has a distinct 1940s vibe.
Sheepfolds Stables, Easington Street, Sunderland SR5 1BA
@sheepfoldsstables
Kork
Head here for great wine and an excellent range of deli goods. The selection leans towards natural wines, and their regular tasting experiences and events make this a really special place. It’s even dog friendly so bring the pooch along too.
74 Whitley Road, Whitley Bay NE26 2NE
@korkwineanddeli
Grape and Grain
This spot has been at the heart of Morpeth for years, selling a good blend of wine, craft beers and spirits.
3 Bridge Street, Morpeth NE61 1NT
@grapeandgrainonline
District
Wine amateurs are welcome here, where the emphasis is on education and helping you to find your next obsession.
66 Park View, Whitley Bay NE26 2TH
@districtwhitleybay
Fourteen Drops
Expect rows upon rows of bottles to select from, and a small clutch of seating for testing a glass or two.
77a High Street, Yarm TS15 9BG
@fourteendrops
Jesmond Wine Co.
You’ll find this independent fine wine merchant right in the heart of Jesmond, stocking a range of hand-selected wines, Champagne and spirits.
3a Clayton Road, Jesmond NE2 4RP
@jesmondwineco