Warm, cosy and stylish, The Dun Cow delivers the ultimate British public house experience in the heart of Sunderland’s cultural quarter.

Gift Vouchers
Pub Culture

Welcome to the Dun Cow

This wonderfully ornate, grade 2 listed ‘Edwardian Gin Palace’ designed in 1901 for Robert Deuchars by the somewhat eccentric architect Benjamin F Simpson, has a remarkable exterior that features decorative creatures including a cow, lizard, cat and frog, finished off with its crowning glory – the copper domed tower, with two clocks facing the distinct and complementing crown of the Sunderland Empire, both towering landmarks of the city for over a century.

Take a step back in time as you enter the Dun Cow, listed in the national inventory of historic pub interiors. The bar of this extraordinary building has etched panels, bevelled mirrors, fine plasterwork and grand fireplaces. Chosen as the National Winner in the 2015 pub design awards and described as having ‘ one of the most stunning bar-backs in Britain’, the Dun Cow is a perfect example of everything that a traditional British public house should be.

We welcome customers from all walks of life – city shoppers to leaders of commerce, theatre goers to retired glass blowers and the occasional dog. This is a pub, where the matters of the day are discussed, be it football or politics, algorithms or allotments, the Dun Cow is a place where opinions and ideas can be shared in the company of like-minded friends.

Cask & Craft

The Dun Cow specialises in cask conditioned ales and craft beers.  A house range provides a consistent base and includes some local favourites, whilst a calendar of guest ales ensures there is always something new to sample.

Dining

With a home cooked menu served daily, complimented by a concise list of wines, The Dun Cow is the perfect destination for a delicious pub lunch or dinner.

The Drawing Room

The first floor Drawing Room includes a bijou bar and discreet private access stair, creating the perfect hideaway for intimate events and celebrations.

Functions & Events

The stylish and elegant ‘Drawing Room’ located on our first floor is ideal for any occasion. Holding up to 60 of your nearest and dearest the Drawing Room has its own exclusive bar. Together with our seasoned events manager we will work with you to create the perfect occasion for your event.

Our Cultural Friends

The Sunderland Empire

Located only a stone’s throw away and one of the city’s landmark venues with its towering gold dome, the Sunderland Empire play’s a key role in driving culture into the city. Showcasing everything from West End musicals to classic ballet we couldn’t be happier to have them as our neighbour and friend.

The Fire Station

Whether you’re into indie rock, acoustic jazz, new theatre, stand-up comedy or just after a great night out, Sunderdand’s brand new performance venue is packed with entertainment from music and comedy to dance and theatre.

Gift Vouchers

Treat someone special to an experience like no other.

Special Offers

Sign up today and be the first to know what we’re up to.

Creative Hospitality

Explore Our Other Venues

The Chart House

Newcastle upon Tyne

The Engine Room

Sunderland

The Fire Station

Sunderland