Cocktail brand toasts Durham opening

A North East cocktail bar operator is raising a glass to further growth with the launch of a new Durham venue.

Mother Mercy has launched its fifth venue on Silver Street, adding to its established portfolio across the North East.

What began as a single cocktail bar on Newcastle’s Cloth Market and has since grown into one of the region’s most recognised independent hospitality names.

Its reputation has also gained national recognition, with Mother Mercy twice named among the UK’s Top 50 Cocktail Bars.

Bar manager James Brown was recently named among the World Class GB Top 100 Bartenders and shortlisted for the Top 50 Cocktail Bars Rising Star Award.

The Durham venue will serve Mother Mercy favourites including the East 8 Hold Up, Hot Honey Margarita and Mirrorball Spritz, alongside seasonal specials, classics, alcohol-free options, Guinness and lager on tap.

The bar will also introduce cocktail masterclasses in the months following opening, offering guests the chance to learn more about the craft behind its drinks.

Bosses say the expansion reflects the brand’s steady growth, built on quality drinks, table service, atmosphere and individual character across each venue.

Neil Donachie, co-founder of Mother Mercy, said: “Opening in Durham feels incredibly special because it's where I grew up and somewhere I’ve always hoped to bring Mother Mercy.

“We’d been looking for the right opportunity in the city for some time and were determined to wait until we found a space that felt right for the brand. 

“When this building became available, we knew immediately it had the character and personality we were looking for.

“The building itself played a huge part in that. 

“During the refurbishment, we uncovered original tiles and features that had been hidden away for years, and preserving those details became really important to us. 

“We wanted to create a venue that feels rooted in its surroundings and respects the history and character of the space. 

“We worked with AND+ Studios again to bring some of the design details people recognise from Mother Mercy into a space that still feels unique to Durham.

“What I love most is that it already feels like it belongs here. 

“It’s intimate without feeling exclusive, relaxed without losing a sense of occasion, and somewhere you can settle in for the evening rather than rush through a drink.”

Find out more about Neil and the concept behind Mother Mercy in his interview to our sister publication, N, here.

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