Family-run brewery established in 1994 and one of the North East's longest-established independent breweries. Durham produces cask, keg and bottle-conditioned beer in-house, ranging from pale ales to strong and barrel-aged beers.
Brewery story
Durham Brewery was founded in 1994 by Steve and Christine Gibbs after Steve's homebrewing hobby developed into plans for a commercial brewery. Both initially continued working as music teachers while building the business.
Christine's daughter Elly joined in 2003 and, after Steve and Christine stepped back in 2020, took over the family brewery and became head brewer. The brewery continues to produce its beer in-house, including cask, keg and bottle-conditioned releases.
Durham is known for beers ranging from its long-running pale ale Magus to the 10% Temptation Imperial Russian Stout. It has also developed a barrel-ageing programme using whisky, rum, bourbon and wine casks.
The Bowburn brewery includes an onsite shop and taproom, developed into a community-focused space in 2025, and visitors can also book brewery tours.
Sources
Taproom & tours
An onsite brewery taproom and shop at Durham Brewery in Bowburn. Developed into a welcoming community space in 2025, the bar serves Durham beers at the brewery where they are made.
Brewery tours available
See behind the scenes and discover how the beer is made.
Unit 6A, Bowburn North Industrial Estate, Bowburn, Durham, DH6 5PF
An onsite brewery taproom and shop at Durham Brewery in Bowburn. Developed into a welcoming community space in 2025, the bar serves Durham beers at the brewery where they are made.
