Tin of Sardines: A Huge Experience in Durham’s Tiniest Bar

I’ve walked across Durham’s cobbled Elvet Bridge more times than I can count, in every kind of weather.

It’s one of those iconic spots in the city, with the River Wear flowing below and history all around you.

And nestled right there just over the bridge is a place that always makes me smile before I’ve even stepped through the door: a tiny bar with a very big reputation, aptly named the Tin of Sardines.

They proudly call themselves the smallest gin bar in Durham, and they might just be the smallest in the world.

The name is your first clue—this place is wonderfully, brilliantly tiny. At just over five feet wide, it’s licensed for a maximum of 16 people, and that’s what makes it so special.

The moment you step inside, you’re not just a customer at a bar; you’re part of the atmosphere.

It’s not cramped; it’s wonderfully intimate. The buzz of conversation, the clinking of glasses—it all happens in a space so cosy you can’t help but feel you’ve stumbled upon a secret that everyone is in on.   

But what this place lacks in square footage, it more than makes up for in spirit. Literally.

The shelves behind the bar are a library of gin, groaning under the weight of over 200 different varieties from every corner of the globe.

It’s a jaw-dropping collection that could feel overwhelming, but that’s where the magic really happens.

The staff here aren’t just bartenders; they’re “Ginologists,” and they are masters of their craft.

They don’t stand behind a bar, separated from you; they’re right there with you, mingling and chatting.

They don’t just pour you a drink; they take you on a journey. Tell them what flavours you like—floral, citrusy, spicy, classic—and they’ll find your perfect match.

They’ll pair it with one of nearly 50 different mixers and finish it with fresh, homegrown herbs and botanicals that make the flavours sing. Watching them work is mesmerising; it’s a true art form. 

The vibe is just fantastic. It feels like one of those brilliant local spots where everyone pops in while passing, drawn in by the warm glow and friendly chatter.

On a sunny afternoon or a mild evening, you can grab one of the tables outside on the bridge itself, soak up the atmosphere of this amazing city, and watch the world go by.   

The Tin of Sardines is a perfect example of what makes Durham so special. It’s a tiny place with a massive personality, full of passion and character.

It’s an absolute must-visit and a core memory from any break in Durham. Just be prepared to get cosy—it’s an experience you won’t forget.