Located in the heart of Durham on Palace Green, and conveniently near to the Music and Theology faculties, Almshouses attracts people from all walks of life, particularly a large number of students. Those in search of a quick cuppa in the morning and perhaps a soup or a salad will not go away disappointed, while the hearty eaters could settle for the smoked haddock and prawn pie with buttered spinach, or tagine of lamb and chickpeas with preserved lemon cous cous.

Move down further to choose between the Craster crab and rocket; Almshouses ham and Dijon mustard, or roast beef and horseradish rolls. The dessert list is well-chosen with apple, date and cinnamon strudel, and the gluten-free lemon polenta cake.

The atmosphere is quite informal and a self-service approach is emphasised. With the proprietor Eric Marrion's artwork adorning the walls, which is up for sale, Almshouses is a place where food, art and history meet in convivial surroundings.