With a lot of bars - you need a unique sell, whether that's a variation of drinks, a view, or activities while you're at the venue. 

As part of this, we have pieced together five pubs and bars in County Durham that have quirky elements that you should visit.

Five quirky bars and pubs in County Durham for you to visit:

The Magic Corner

19½, Old Elvet, Durham

Magic Circle member Tom Bolton presents The Magic Corner. The Magic Corner is a custom built magic bar/studio located in the heart of Durham.​

In this show like no other, you will experience breathtaking magic no more than a metre away from you at all times.

According to the site itself: "From the moment you enter you are immersed in the world of magic even before the show begins. Tom will guide you through The Magic Corner whilst performing incredible sleight of hand and showing some mesmerising magical routines.​"

One person who has visited said: "What a show! It is a must-see. Intimate setting so you’re involved from the outset. Tom is such an amazing performer that makes everyone warm to him."

Aviator Gin Bar

Hangar, 18 Northfield Way, Newton Aycliffe

The Aviator Gin Bar offers a unique experience, from its own Gins and Vodkas to its aviation-themed Gin Bar.

As the location suggests, it's set up like it's in a flight hangar, which features aeroplane parts, airline seats and various other pieces of flight memorabilia. 

If you're looking for something a bit unique, this place is well worth the visit. 

One customer who has visited said on TripAdvisor: "Great bar and is also dog friendly!
Highly recommend for a few drinks, the staff was friendly and the atmosphere was friendly as well."

33

33 Neville Street, Durham

Perhaps not well known (mainly because it's a speakeasy bar with craft cocktails.

And if you aren't already sold by the mystery, the description of 33 on its website says: "Come hide away in our roomy booths late into the morning over an Old Fashioned or a Czech pilsner. Our friendly bar staff are always ready to recommend anything from craft rum to classic cocktails from our fully stocked bar. Support local distilleries or try something from a micro-distillery halfway around the world."

One person who has tried and tested this place and reviewed it on TripAdvisor said: "A really nice venue with the service to match. The staff were very friendly and looked after us the whole time. Lovely cocktails with a great atmosphere."

Firkin Alley

2 Bakery Mews Rear of 20 Horsemarket, Barnard Castle

A little bit of a tight squeeze for this one - this place is located next to an alleyway in County Durham. It is a micro-pub that offers beers galore. 

As well as a unique place - this is a hidden gem, with many people saying it is difficult to find unless you know where it is.

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One customer who visited and rated it on TripAdvisor said: "Saw sign on Main Street after being disappointed by other local pubs. Met with a smile and information about the various brews on sale."

The Waiting Room

North Rd Railway Station, Durham

More and more common, this place, as the name suggests, is a pub at the train station in Durham, which is becoming commonplace across the UK's train network. 

This place offers a range of drinks while you wait for your train, or even after you get off the train in Durham.

One impressed customer who visited this place said on TripAdvisor: "Always enjoy a visit here before catching a train. A lovely little bar with a real old world feel and some great beer. A really relaxing experience."