7 of the best spots for coffee and a delicious cake in County Durham

Molly Court

15 June 2024 at 0:00 am·3-min read

Do you have a favourite spot for coffee and cake in the county? <i>(Image: Getty/Canva)</i> — Do you have a favourite spot for coffee and cake in the county? *(Image: Getty/Canva)*

You can’t beat a natter with a friend or family member over a perfectly roasted coffee and freshly baked sweet treat in County Durham.

But where do you go for the finest coffee and cake around? Whether your go-to order is a caramel latte with a serving of Victoria sponge or a flat white with a rich chocolate brownie square, the choices are endless.

Here’s a selection of some of the best cafes to visit for a coffee and slice of cake in the area, according to Google reviews.

Some of the best places for a coffee and cake in County Durham

Vennels Café

Location: 71 Saddler Street, Durham, DH1 3NP

Rating: 4.6/5 from 743 reviews

This customer wrote: “Amazing cake & great coffee! Quick and friendly service. Nice atmosphere!”

Another added: “What a lovely spot for a coffee and cake. The place was really charming, the stuff were super friendly & the courtyard was cosy. We didn't have cash only card on us. They allowed us to have our coffee first before we went to a cash machine. Definitely would go back.”

Treats Cafe & Tea Room

Location: 27-28 Silver Street, Durham, DH1 3RD

Rating: 4.6/5 from 695 reviews

A recent visitor shared: “This café looks completely inconspicuous from the outside and reveals so much attention to detail on the inside.

“The decor is very lovingly coordinated and in keeping with the theme. The selection on the menu is really surprisingly extensive.

“And the cake was simply out of this world. Incredibly delicious, succulent and wonderfully tasty.”

Influence Café

Location: 74 Skinnergate, Darlington, DL3 7LX

Rating: 4.4/5 from 227 reviews

“This is one of the best cafe's in Darlington I've found,” wrote this person.

“For coffee lovers there's the Turkish coffee, and for tea fans there are a selection of more 'exotic' options that you'd not find else where.

“The baked goods seem to be homemade because they are divine.

“The quality of the food and drinks are well worth the price.”

Chapters of Durham

Location: 16 Elvet Bridge, Durham, DH1 3AA

Rating: 4.2/5 from 344 reviews

A user said: “Hands down the Best cafe in Durham. Food and drinks always super tasty and brilliant quality. Keiran is so welcoming, friendly and accommodating, as is all the staff. Highly recommend all of the cakes from the counter, they are all amazing.”

Riverview Kitchen

Location: 20 Silver Street, Durham, DH1 3RB

Rating: 4.6/5 from 739 reviews

“Great breakfast, coffee, service and atmosphere. Can't fault the place,” commented this reviewer.

Someone else posted: “Tasty and reasonably priced brunch with a river view! A large range of brunch items with a delicious cake counter too. I had an avocado smoothie with a scone but spoilt for choice. Inside and outside seating available. Go up to the till to pay.”

Maggie's Coffee & Kitchen

Location: 54 Duke Street, Darlington, DL3 7AJ

Rating: 4.6/5 from 170 reviews

This customer who had “nothing but praise for this jewel” said: “This is my go to place be it for a cuppa and cake, make that a scone or a meal.

“Everything is freshly prepared, tasty more than that delicious.

“I'm loving the quiche of the day at the moment.

“The atmosphere is busy, lively, in a good way.

“Attention to cleanliness and hygiene is excellent.

“The staff are efficient, courteous and helpful.

“Nothing but praise for this jewel in the crown of café restaurants.

“Thank you for making my visits and that of my friends so welcoming.”

Recommended reading:

Origins Coffee Bar

Location: 29 Grange Road, Darlington, DL1 5NB

Rating: 4.6/5 from 101 reviews

An account put: “Delightful little café only serving scones, cakes and coffee/tea so no fuss ordering. The cakes are all baked very well lovely and moist and very tasty. Well done ladies.”

“Very cute lil cafe. Tasty cakes and really nice coffee. As well available to take away. Nice place for coffee and cake with friend,” this review added.

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