Cheers to 200 Years: The Spotted Dog Marks Its Bicentennial

The Spotted Dog Pub Celebrates 200 Years of History, Heritage and Hospitality with a long weekend of amazing food, chilled drinks, live music and more. The Spotted Dog, one of Darlington’s oldest and most cherished pubs, is raising a glass to mark 200 incredible years this August — and everyone is invited to join the celebration.

Nestled in the picturesque village of High Coniscliffe, The Spotted Dog is more than just a country pub — it’s a place where history and hospitality come together. Built in the early 1800s and first recorded under its current name in 1851, the pub has been a cornerstone of community life for two centuries. In honour of this remarkable milestone, the pub is hosting a full weekend of live music, great food, and local pride.

A Pub Steeped in History

Before it was The Spotted Dog, the pub was known as The Bluecap, named after a famous foxhound that won a 500-guinea race in 1763. The name changed in 1851 and has remained ever since. During WWII, Canadian air force members based nearby were known to stop by during their downtime, and local lore connects the pub with the former Coniscliffe Hall, which burned down in 1945.

Recent refurbishments, completed in 2023, have modernised the venue while preserving its traditional charm — and even revealed an unexpected gem: an 9-metre-deep well beneath the bar, believed to date back centuries.

“We’re incredibly proud of The Spotted Dog’s heritage and wanted to honour that with a celebration that brings the community together,” said Barry, the pub owner. “It’s not every day a pub turns 200 – and we’re thrilled to still be part of the fabric of village life.”

What customers can expect from our celebratory Bank holiday weekend: 

It’s Party Time – Saturday 23rd August

The weekend kicks off with a birthday bash in The Olive Room to celebrate the building’s 200th year. There’ll be a raffle draw at 6.30pm, live entertainment, and a buzzing atmosphere with guests enjoying the newly refurbished interiors. Entry is free, but reservations are essential due to limited capacity.

Sunday Sessions – Sunday 24th August

On Sunday, enjoy a relaxed afternoon in the garden with live music from singer Abbie Dodsworth at 2pm and Sunday lunch served from 12–6pm. The perfect mix of laid-back summer vibes and fantastic food.

Bank Holiday Special – Monday 25th August

Round off the long weekend with a special Bank Holiday performance by Louise, a talented saxophonist, from 2pm – joined by a surprise guest. Expect good food, chilled drinks and a whole lot of character.

For two centuries, The Spotted Dog has been a place where neighbours meet, stories are shared, and memories are made. This milestone is not just about the pub’s past, but about celebrating the people who’ve walked through its doors and the community it continues to bring together.

Join the Celebration

To reserve a place at the Saturday night party, contact:
01325 520271 or via events@the-spotteddog.co.uk