Kids eat free in County Durham

Good for a midweek dinner out when you want something reliable without much guesswork. County Durham suits families who prefer a known quantity — a sit-down chain where the kids' menu is established and the staff are used to small people. All seven active venues here are distinct chains, so you get genuine variety rather than the same kitchen twice. DH1 carries the heaviest concentration with four venues, meaning Durham city itself is your most practical base if you are travelling in. ASK Italian and Turtle Bay sit at the more characterful end; Slug & Lettuce and Sizzling Pubs lean casual. One thing to check before booking: Vintage Inns and Hungry Horse run their free children's meals during school holidays only, not across the full year, so the timing of your visit genuinely changes what is available.

Holiday-only chains in County Durham: Marco Pierre White Steakhouse. These quietly flip in for half-term and summer; outside the school holidays they drop off the list.

Verified by the kidseatfree.co.uk editorial team.