Akarsu Turkish Restaurant & Grill
Riverside Turkish grill with a calm, air-conditioned room, kids' menu, high chairs and smoky mezze — book ahead, it's popular.

Restaurant · Durham
Tucked down a short staircase by the water, this spot pairs a genuinely poetic view — river, trees, old houses right outside the window — with easy access from the Durham Cathedral footpath, which makes it a doable pram walk. Breakfast is the strong suit: enormous full Englishes, fluffy pancake stacks with piles of toppings, and a Special Breakfast Wrap with bacon, egg, avocado and hash brown that people go back for. Service is quick, which matters when someone's melting down, and the team are patient and warm. There's a kids' menu, high chairs, outdoor seating and vegan choices, though the vegan options can be underwhelming — stick to the cooked breakfasts. It fills up fast and gets loud at peak lunch, so come early if you want a window table. Around £17 for a burger and chips.

A little something creative for your next meal out. Filled with colouring, simple drawing prompts for cute animals, origami and conversation starters designed to bring more play, laughter and connection to the table. 3 free printable packs for toddlers, preschoolers and primary-aged children.
Riverside Turkish grill with a calm, air-conditioned room, kids' menu, high chairs and smoky mezze — book ahead, it's popular.
Restaurant in Durham — 4.6★ (161 Google reviews).
Restaurant in Durham with a kids menu and highchairs — 5.0★ (26 Google reviews).