Copper Mine Pub Celebrated as Best Restaurant in County Durham – A Remarkable Journey!

A County Durham pub, The Copper Mine, is basking in the glory of being named the Best Restaurant in County Durham at the England Business Awards held in Newcastle. Owner Anne Binks expressed her excitement, stating that the win was a complete surprise as the nomination came from loyal customers who put them forward without the team’s knowledge.

Unexpected Triumph

Anne, who purchased The Copper Mine back in 2015 under challenging circumstances, reflected on her journey and the obstacles she faced. Initially told that her business wouldn’t last, she has proven skeptics wrong as the pub now stands as a testament to hard work and determination. “I was actually bet £100 that I wouldn’t last six months and 10 years later, here we are,” she noted proudly.

Community Support and Loyalty

The Copper Mine has established itself as a beloved establishment not just for its quality food but also for its affordable prices and exceptional customer service. With a loyal customer base that extends beyond County Durham, the pub is ranked in the top 10 percent of venues on TripAdvisor for both 2024 and 2025. Anne emphasized the importance of creating a welcoming environment for customers, which she believes has contributed significantly to their success.

Recognizing the Local Business Ecosystem

At the awards ceremony, Anne was thrilled to see other local businesses recognized as well, highlighting the positive momentum within the community. “It was great for the area. There were other winners from around here too, so it’s really positive for businesses here in the local community,” she said. This sentiment of community success is crucial in fostering a vibrant local economy and supporting one another within the hospitality industry.

The journey of The Copper Mine serves as an inspiring example of resilience in the face of adversity, underscoring the significance of community support in creating thriving local businesses. As Anne aptly put it, “We’re just so thankful to all of our incredible customers who continue to support us. It means the world.”