AS frequent town centre visitors will testify, Darlington has a lot to offer when it comes to traditional pub culture.

The Britannia Inn, known to regulars as the Brit, does not let down those seeking to extol the virtues of Darlington’s pub scene.

Running the pub is Sue Carr, who recently marked her 13th year in charge and is the 15th licensee to keep the pub.

Mrs Carr is a well-known name and face in the area and aspires to keep the pub as a traditional part of her regulars’ lives.

She said: “I feel the Britannia is part of the local community – we have a great group of regulars who are mostly from the area, which creates a really fantastic and friendly community atmosphere we all enjoy.”

Among the details which marks the Brit out from its high street competitors and earns it a special place in the hearts of regulars is the fact it still closes for a couple of hours in the afternoon during the early part of the week.

Darlington and Stockton Times:

Located in Archer Street, just outside the centre of town, the Brit is beloved by regulars for its friendly atmosphere, not to mention the traditional real ales and cask ales.

An inn since 1859, it is one of the oldest in the town and with such longevity comes a rich and proud his tory. It is featured on the Darlington Heritage Trail, a tour of the town’s historic highlights.

Before it was a pub it was home to the creator of the Everyman’s Library series – Joseph M Dent.

As the tenth child of a house painter, the visionary publisher was born there and lived in it until he moved to London to pursue his dream of publishing.

The building’s gorgeous old architecture eventually became the Britannia Inn, which was made one of Darlington’s grade two listed buildings in 1997. Although the building cannot be changed, the interior of the Brit has been re-decorated to represent the locals’ pride in Darlington and the wider region.

The walls are adorned with souvenirs, framed photos and posters supporting Newcastle football team as well as a flat-screen TV for sporting events.

This local certainly deserves its place as part of Darlington’s pub scene – both for its proud history and the warm welcome it givess regulars and visitors.

Factfile

The Britannia Inn, Archer Street, Darlington, DL3 6LR. Tel: 01325-463787. The pub is open from 11.30am to 3pm and 5.30pm to 11pm on Monday to Wednesday, from 11.30am to 11pm from Thursday to Saturday and from noon to 10.30pm on Sunday. No food.