Toronto Lodge in County Durham

Found this pub on our way to the Kynren experience early August. The food was excellent and service. Staff very friendly.

Excellent food with very friendly service. We will definitely be back whenever we visit nearby.

Thoroughly enjoy every visit to Bishops Lodge which has improved again this year, with a new team in charge. The food is always lovely and the menu is even more varied with special offers on everyday. Very relaxing. Great quality, reasonably priced. Highly recommended.

Excellent Sunday lunch today especially as we were a party of 22. Well done.

Very friendly staff. Quick service and lovely food reasonably priced. Will definitely return.

Lovely friendly staff,absolutely fantastic food.

Absolutely beautiful been here 2 nights in a row and omg I would recommend to anyone beautiful place beautiful happy helpful staff and out of this world food thanks again see yous next year

Fantastic food, well priced and wonderful staff.

We went there to meet friends and we were welcomed in by a friendly member of staff we had a dog with us and we were sat in the bar area and a water bowl was brought straight away for the dog. The menu is homemade comfort food and classic pub food. The staff was very friendly and welcoming. I would highly recommend this place .

We booked at short notice but the team were able to accommodate us. The pub looked great, sort of open plan and rustic. The staff were fantastic, very nice and polite. They even had a guest vocalist on an eight who was very good. The pub had a lovely friendly atmosphere. Tiny issue was the menu was a little limited. We both had the Bolognase parmo which was lovely, Desert was choc brownie and ice cream with bits of cough candy which was a nice twist. Wife had rhubarb crumble which was also nice as I had to finish the wife's! Definitely recommend and we will be going again !

We booked at short notice but the team were able to accommodate us. The pub looked great, sort of open plan and rustic. The staff were fantastic, very nice and polite. They even had a guest vocalist on an eight who was very good. The pub had a lovely friendly atmosphere. Tiny issue was the menu was a little limited. We both had the Bolognase parmo which was lovely, Desert was choc brownie and ice cream with bits of cough candy which was a nice twist. Wife had rhubarb crumble which was also nice as I had to finish the wife's! Definitely recommend and we will be going again !

Unfortunately we didn’t have a great time. Firstly, service was very slow despite it not being that busy and there being plenty of staff. The food was very basic - a bit like school dinners - very overpriced for what it was. But the main thing that really ruined it was that I complained about my wine, which tasted off, and was told the bottle had only been open a day so if I didn’t like it I’d just have to buy another. It tasted like it might make me ill. I had to complain twice before being offered a replacement by a very rude and disgruntled bar man. I’ve never had this treatment in a pub before. The other staff were apologetic on his behalf but it left an additional sour taste (other than the wine). Also the ladies toilets had almost no toilet roll in the cubicles even though it wasn’t that busy. Overall we decided we would not be returning to this venue.

Unfortunately we didn’t have a great time. Firstly, service was very slow despite it not being that busy and there being plenty of staff. The food was very basic - a bit like school dinners - very overpriced for what it was. But the main thing that really ruined it was that I complained about my wine, which tasted off, and was told the bottle had only been open a day so if I didn’t like it I’d just have to buy another. It tasted like it might make me ill. I had to complain twice before being offered a replacement by a very rude and disgruntled bar man. I’ve never had this treatment in a pub before. The other staff were apologetic on his behalf but it left an additional sour taste (other than the wine). Also the ladies toilets had almost no toilet roll in the cubicles even though it wasn’t that busy. Overall we decided we would not be returning to this venue.

Under new ownership and it is VASTLY improved. It was a shame when the last owners took over what had been a great restraunt and ruined it, but they have moved on (presumably to ruin another restraunt elsewhere). I could complain that there aren't enough vegetarian options but what they do offer are so delicious it hardly matters.

Afternoon tea for 30 of my friends to celebrate my birthday. Everything absolutely brilliant, top class. Had the best afternoon. Would recommend Thankyou Bishops Lodge

Went for lunch. My friend was reticent as her experiences in the past had not been good. It was incredible! Service was friendly, efficient and professional. Food was generous portions and excellent quality. Tables and furnishings were beautiful. Needless to say, we will be back.

Lovely food, great service. Service very good. Beautiful deco, traquil relaxed setting

Friendly staff, good food, slight wait on food though

Had a Parmo today and the food was perfect, service was top notch and the staff were beyond welcoming and helpful.

First time here and couldn't fault it. Absolutely delicious!

Meals had to be pre booked, then waited 1 hour 40 mins for them to arrive. Drinks were very expensive. Would not recommend going here

So refreshing to find somewhere that has quality food at a reasonable price. Had parents down from Scotland and they said it's the best fish they've had whilst in England. The pasta dish was made with fresh pasta and the parmo was extremely good. Definitely recommending this place for food and I'll definitely be back to try some of the other meals on offer

They have vastly improved the customer service and food, the prices are good just wish there was more food on the menu

We just popped in fora drink this time , but will definitely be back for a meal . Nice spacious authentic place . Old Castle type very nice.

Went here for Sunday lunch, it was beautiful! Staff were friendly, atmosphere in the place was good. Definitely coming back.

Great experience at this restaurant

Had a great walk out to here for tapas on a lovely evening , although it wasn't tapas that we expected as you didn't get to choose your different tapas , it's more of a tapas set meal . But it tasted great , lovely wine and a cocktail all served by staff who were happy to help efficient and friendly . No complaints

Excellent couldn't fault it at all

The food is better than your average pub, a decent selection of lager on tap too. Food prices are about the average, although the drinks are a little expensive compared to others in the area( £6 a pint). The staff are pleasant too. Open view style kitchen so you can actually see your food being prepared. I was sat on the table in the middle of the floor right next to the kitchen I wouldn't advise sitting here as you will be constantly getting servers and people walking wooshing by you and on a couple of occasions catching your chair while you eat. Also you'll come out smelling of a.mixture of food. There's a large decked area to the rear with tables and lights trailing across above. This would be great for the summer. It would be a good place to hold bottomless brunches in the warmer months.

Excellent food good service good choice of beers

First visit here and it's a lovely place. Staff friendly and the food excellent.Will be a regular visit for us and bring the family too.

We didn't eat as the .end didn't suit us. Used bar for a few hours after a funeral and stayed the night. Very new bar resteraunt and rooms obviously been refurbished. Opened window to sleep as it was very warm and was woken up after just after 4am from traffic noise ans the room was so light. A lot of money has been spent doing this place up and it's a shame they didn't get curtains as well as blinds. They are bright orange so as soon as the sun's up it's impossible to sleep

Absolutely incredible food, I couldn’t find a fault in any of it and neither could my family. Service was warm and welcoming throughout our dining experience!!! It was so amazing in fact that we went twice during our weekend getaway for dinner.

Last minute booking due to family visiting, accommodated us perfectly. Staff were lovely, service fantastic and food was beautiful. What more can be said other than we will definitely be returning. Thank you so much.

Just returned from the Bishops Lodge for lunch. I had the liver, gorgeous, my wife had the fish n chips, outstanding portion and tasted lovely, nice white fish, homemade chips, nice pint of moreti, definitely recommend,.

Called in for an early evening meal on Saturday, it was very pleasant but quite quiet. Staff were very friendly and attentive. Food was lovely but no real ales on offer, the Guinness was nice tho

Honestly very impressed with the food! They had a great selection on the menu and the staff were so friendly. We went on a Wednesday evening (hanging kebab night) as myself and my colleagues were in the area for work. It had been recommended to us by a local, so thought we would give it a go. The food was so fresh, delicious and the portion sizes were great. I had the pork and apple burger (recommended by the waitress), while my colleagues had different hanging Kebabs. I don't have a bad word to say about this place, it was clean, friendly, great food and decorated to a high/cosy standard. Definitely would go away if I end up back in the area.

Excellent food, service and friendly staff.

Changed hands recently and it's not the same. Gutted, the roast belly pork Sunday lunch wasnt good the crackling was more rubber than crunch. Very diassapointed and don't think we will be back

Called in on spec as driving past and checked it was dog friendly....it was. Very friendly greeting as we came through the door and staff excellent too. Love the decor and the feel of the place and the food was delicious. Our little cockapoo had a doggy dinner and wolfed it down as well. Absolutely be back here again and thoroughly recommend it.

Lovely place, First time I've been and would definitely go back again. Friendly staff and value for your money.

Great pub with a brilliant menu. Food was lovely and service was friendly. Will definitely be going back and highly recommend.. the Yorkshire Pudding wrap was amazing 👌

UPDATE Jan 2024: not the same anymore, food is completely different and not as good as before - no where near as good as before (comparing the same food/meals) & food hygiene ration 1 star as of Dec 2023. Very poor. Whoever took over the place has driven it into the ground, a shame really. Orginal review early 2023: Been a couple times, can't complain. Foods always good (sometimes the fried bits can be oily though), it's like elevated pub grub. Staff generally are lovely, sometimes forgot to ask if you want sauce or anything else but this could have been due to it being busy. Would recommend & go back

Would NOT recommend Bishops Lodge Bishops Lodge in Toronto Bishop Auckland Advertised 2 for £20 being on Mondays and Tuesdays, my dad went for a Christmas meal out Tuesday, preordered from said 2 for £20 menu only to be told when given the bill that the manager wasn't doing it in December despite still being advertised on their Facebook page that same day. Pub was also meant to close at 11pm, at ten to 9 they were told to drink up as they were closing. When they queried this and stated taxi wasn't due to 10.30 they were told tough were closing stand outside and ring the taxi company. Absolutely shocking service. Bill ended up being over £400 as well so it wasn't as if they weren't getting decent business from the group either! They just remove any negative comments or reviews on their Facebook page. Really poor. Wouldn't recommend.

The food was very poor for the price. Neither of us finished our food. The main wasn’t great but okay, the starter was very bad. I wouldn’t go back again.

Fab food really good service would recommend

Was a really great evening. We really enjoyed the food. The services. was good I you didn't feel rushed Definitely go again

The food service and value for money experience was first class. Highly recommended for any occasion. Four very satisfied customers.

Visited Bishops Lodge today for lunch with a friend. Food was besutiful, excellent service we will certainly be back.

This was the worst Sunday dinner I have had the veg was a bowl full of over cooked much didn't touch it it was cold and the Yorkshire pudding was like plastic, the tables were sticky and the chairs were dirty the whole pub needs a good clean, the staff were friendly and when I complaind they were apologetic and knocked money off the bill

Very disappointing Sunday Lunch. Cold , tasteless mashed potatoe on plate, cold tasteless vegetables in side dish. We Were told they would make sure it was hot the next time. Afraid, there won’t be a Next Time for us.

Just been for the 1st time today, lovely atmosphere, nice music, the waiting staff was a lovely lad who knew his stuff and was very chatty which made you feel good. The food was amazing so compliments to the chefs. If you haven't been go....we will absolutely be going back.

Called in for a drink. Very attentive service

Love it here! I recommend the turkey and stuffing sandwich!

Amazing Sunday lunch, very good menu. 1st time going but won't be the last. Thankyou.

We booked a table for 5 people . We all ordered something different and everyone enjoyed their meals...good food and service ...Thank you to all the staff

Disappointing visit… the menu has changed and the lovely vegetarian dishes that used to be on the menu have all gone. There is just macaroni cheese - even the soup wasn’t veggie. On the upside, my husband had the special T bone steak and he enjoyed it.

Great food , lovely staff and dog friendly

Very nice food excellent service 👌

Can't fault it. Run out of Neck Oil on draught ... I can live with that as had other beers on tap and the 9/10s of a pint left of NO I got for the price of a half ...winner. Scotch egg to start which was really nice and you could tell it was freshly made. Fish and chips for main which the fish was brilliantly cooked with lovely crispy batter ... found it weird it came with salad like but, it all went down the hatch. Good food and good atmosphere and you can see and tell the staff appreciate you are there.

Had the Belly pork , well recommended

Food here is awful. Certainly will not be going back. Got to be fake reviews on here, This place is easily the worst food I have ever eaten, fact! Daylight robbery.

Food was nicely cooked when it arrived - all of menu not available, service was a bit slower than we expected although it was evident that the limited staff were working very hard.

Great meal lovely staff would go again.

Passed this pub on the way back from Bishop Auckland & decided to give it a try - & how pleased are we that we did! Table service was excellent, staff very good at upselling, but worth the small price for extras. I went for rump steak & it was cooked to perfection. The accompanying home made chips were excellent, a lovely juicy mushroom & grilled tomatoes on the side. As an extra the Diane sauce was very good. My companion ordered fish & chips which came with home made tartare sauce & the fish was beautifully cooked & massive! A brilliant little pub, you can see the chefs cooking & the food is excellent at a moderate price. Would highly recommend & will definitely return!

Absolutely amazing, afternoon, service was fantastic, staff were so attentive. We booked for a party of 16, then added a high chair and one extra person while we were there. Nothing was too much trouble. A fabulous place with a great atmosphere, will defo be returning. Thank you!

Food here is quite hit and miss at the moment, Had a beautiful Sunday lunch a couple of months back but the last few meals have been very poor. Menu seems to change frequently and are printed on sheets of paper which look awful. Visited this week and our Order wasn’t taken correctly so had to wait for the missing items. Ordered potatoes and mash turned up which was rather random, vegetables were bland and flavourless. No specials board either which was a shame.

Absolutely amazing food , 5 star all round

Decent pub. Decent pub food but not brilliant. Great service.

Lovely meal in a very attractive country pub. Great views to the rear from the terrace over Wear Dale, super friendly staff and great service. Can't recommend highly enough.

Great food, fantastic service and friendly staff.

Was very disappointed with service and food, will not be in any hurry to go back.

Lovely place to eat and relax staff very welcoming and the manager takes his time to talk to diners and give advice on what's on the menu and how he can help.

This place is just amazing. You won’t get better service and your furry friends will be treated like royalty. The food is top notch and plentiful. We really appreciated the free motorhome stopover too. We’ll certainly visit again

Great pub, great service, great food. Would definitely recommend.

Roast feather blade beef sandwich and chips...very nice.

Eaten here twice now. The food is fabulous but the service can be slow so be prepared to wait a while but when the food arrives its worth the wait hence our 2nd visit.

Food looked lovely however, it was flavourless, undercooked, and doesn’t show enough of what’s on/in the food on the menu, we specifically asked for no sesame seeds on the Korean style chicken and we had sesame seeds on there along with siracha sause which we didn’t even know was within the dish. Service was ok not the best. We had multiple things missing from our meal and all together it was just a horrible experience. Never going back, no wonder there was only 2 other families on there. The place is leaking water from the rain. Paid more than what it was worth

Nice staff, good food ,decent price. What else do you want?

The new chef can't cook a steak properly. Went last week for a 60th birthday, 1st steak looked like it was boiled. Was grey and medium (asked for medium rare) 2nd one was rare so that went back. Had a bad stomach for 2 days after. Gone down hill since it changed hands. I'm gutted cos the food used to be lovely

Very slow service. Waited 20 minutes for drinks to come to the table, had to ask for someone to come and take our food order which also took ages to come out. One of our party is gluten free. The gluten free steak pie was absolutely shocking. about 2 pieces of burnt steak in an overly salty pastry for £13! My sons fish had bones in, veggie curry came with a very oily poppadom that was inedible. quite a few people in the restaurant looked like they were also waiting a while for food and desserts. Won't be back

Service slow for drinks & food, I got vegetable curry with only carrots, broccoli & cauliflower in it, popadom was too greasy to eat, my husband got the gluten free pie which was very small & about 4 bits of steak in & very dry, pastry & gravy very salty, cold cauliflower &broccoli, fish had bones in which my grandson had to spit out, the lobster meal wasn't impressive either...so we wont be back...

This is a great little place to come and visit. The waiting staff are amazing. Unfortunately the food has gone down hill massively. Asked for a medium rare steak it came and was well done. We did come in a big group of people and alot of us were unhappy with our meals. Things missing from orders and similar issues with steaks. Such a shame as used to love coming here.

Busy as fabulous friend had birthday there and staff couldn't be more helpfull x food was great and service with a smile we will return soon x

The outside seating area is beautiful. The food was tasty, fresh, and generous portions. The staff were friendly and happy to help. Highly recommend it.

Lovely friendly staff- fabulous food and service - will definitely return- happily recommend to anyone happy relaxing eating experience- thanks to all staff

Lovely Sunday lunch....food was delicious & great friendly staff

Great family get together T- Bone for me was perfect. No complaints.. everything well cooked and very tasty. Eton mess went down a treat. We shall be back 🥳

Didnt eat,just had a few drinks,the young bar staff were really friendly and confident,not just standing behind the bar on their phones like most kids these days,be happy to go back and eat there one day.

Good food and a well-kept pint. Friendly and helpful staff. The duck leg comfit was delicious.

Food was excellent. staff where friendly and child friendly aswell.

We had an amazing meal, my partner had a seafood platter and said it was the best meal he had ever had. I had Korean chicken and Souffle and an Eton mess to finish. The staff were really friendly and made us feel very welcome, I would recommend it to anyone. We will be visiting again.

Dropped in on a rainy day for a pub lunch. Excellent service, pub grub and beer. Sat by the fire with our dog, staff wanted to say hello to him. Very pleasant.

Lovely meal, friendly staff and great venue

Really excellent food at very reasonable prices. Full menu of fresh local fish and great service.

Called for a late lunch. Amazing food, amazing service.

About 30 years since we were last here, but can honestly say it was one of the best nights we’ve had since! Went with the hubby and our best friends and all agreed it was well worth visiting again! New owner was so friendly and welcoming, bar staff so friendly and so much choice on the menu…. our own choice of food was excellent and hot!!! Had drinks outside before our meal with lovely views and lots of seating inside…. will definitely be going back. 👍🏻

4 meals for £90 and frozen chips used for everyone. We were regulars but wont go again

First time here & place looked OK.. asked what veg was served and 4 different veg was mentioned when the food came there was peas which was not mentioned or I would not have had it.. not only that there was peas in the pie!! When asked was everything OK I stated this is why I asked you what it was served with... despite leaving the food it i was still expected to be paid for for their mistake.. not a good experience.

Ordered a main and dessert with my partner, after we finished our main we waited over an hour for a dessert. My partner had to go inside to the bar and found out we had been forgotten about and they were unable to find our order on the receipts. They told us they stopped serving food but the chef said he will quickly do the desserts. Had we not asked we would never have been seen to. No apology was given. Food was lovely but will not be returning.