Number Twenty 2 in Darlington is celebrating 30 years with events, a contest, and special deals.
The celebrations happen March 7 and 8. There’s a birthday cake contest for everyone, and they have tea and a 1995-themed quiz. You can even get White Boar for £1.40 per pint.
Ralph Wilkinson obtained the license in 1994. It was tough because of local rules; his solicitor argued it was an alehouse, not a pub. The license had strict rules: they could not sell spirits or open on Sundays. Only ales, wines, and porters were allowed.
Number Twenty 2 opened in March 1995, and people loved its great beers, especially real ale. Ralph made White Boar himself, further differentiating them from other pubs.
Number Twenty 2 quickly became very successful. In 1998, they almost won a big award: the CAMRA National Pub of the Year.
Ralph retired in November 2023 at age 68, selling the pub to Vicki Ramsay, who had worked there with him for 15 years. The pub remains popular even after 30 years.