Tucked Away Tradition: Breakfast at Vennels Café, Durham

The City of Durham is a place of remarkable contrasts — a university town steeped in history, crowned by its cathedral and castle, framed by the arches of the viaduct, and yet marked by a patchwork of shuttered shops and thriving independents. Amidst this charming and ever-evolving backdrop lies Vennels Café, hidden just off Saddler Street down an alleyway that might cause you to second-guess your direction. But persevere — what awaits at the end is a quiet gem cherished by locals and students alike.

Vennels has long held a quiet reputation in Durham. Nestled near Waterstones, it’s a café with character, tradition, and a fiercely loyal customer base. I visited for breakfast — not my first time, I’ll admit — and I was reminded again of why this tucked-away spot continues to draw a crowd.

There’s something deeply comforting about a proper Full English, that quintessentially British indulgence we politely pretend isn’t a cholesterol bomb. At Vennels, the Full English is an art form. For £13, you’re served two pork sausages, thick-cut smoked bacon, a perfectly fried egg garnished with chives, tomato, mushroom, beans, hash brown tots, toast, and a generous helping of Lurpak.

The breakfast is generous, hearty, and undeniably satisfying. A year ago, I visited and noted that the sausages were Cumberland swirls — this time, they were traditional links, but equally flavourful and expertly cooked. The bacon stood out: crisp rather than chewy, smoked, and substantial in cut — exactly how it should be. The egg? Egg-cellent. A golden yolk oozing just enough, elevated with a sprinkling of chives. Every element felt considered, well-executed, and worthy of its place on the plate.

Vennels also succeeds in an area many cafés overlook: service. From the moment you step inside, there’s an easy warmth from the staff — a genuine hospitality that makes you feel like a regular, whether it’s your first visit or your fifth. It’s the kind of welcome that leaves an impression long after the coffee has gone cold.

For those not in search of a cooked breakfast, the café boasts an array of homemade cakes, generously filled sandwiches, and a variety of teas and coffees. The courtyard is particularly lovely in warmer months — ideal for a relaxed al fresco brunch. Dog owners will be pleased to find water bowls outside and complimentary dog biscuits, making this a welcome stop after a riverside walk.

If I were to nitpick, it’s this: no black pudding. Even as an optional extra, I’d have gladly added it. For that reason alone, I’m scoring the breakfast 9/10.

Whether you're escaping the bustle of Durham’s cobbled streets or refuelling mid-morning with your four-legged companion in tow, Vennels Café remains a quietly iconic destination — unpretentious, reliable, and just a little bit special.