Combining newcomers and more established names – and with apologies to any absent friends – here are just 10 worthy of a visit throughout the region.
9. The Tin Of Sardines, Durham City
The slightly older sister gin bar to Old Toms can squeeze 16 customers into its former hairdessers' premises on Elvet Bridge. Photo: Stu Norton
10. The Waiting Room Ale House, Durham Train Station
Owner Graham Robinson secured help from Virgin Trains and the Railway Heritage Trust to transform the former ladies waiting room into a mirco pub in 2018. A popular meeting place for travellers heading north - and south, for that matter. Photo: Frank Reid