Half Moon Inn, Durham

17th and 18th century former house and joiners shop that retains an intact rear buffet bar by prolific local pub architect, Joseph Oswald added in 1908-9. Oswald is also responsible for the frontage added in 1894 with its delicate red floral tile panels on the pilasters. The front bar has modern bar fittings but retains a curious pelmet-like canopy to the bar back added as part of the refit of the front bar in 1894. Match-board panelled ceiling but the fixed seating is also modern.

The back area (named as 'Buffet and Lounge' in the etched glass on the left-hand side) retains its semi-circular segmental-shaped mahogany bar counter with heavy detailing and a Queen Anne style fine bar-back fitting with a pair of high-level glazed cupboards and bevelled mirror panels. The inevitable fridges have replaced the lower bar back shelving. Also there is a splendid fire surround with classical detailing but reproduction tiled and cast-iron interior. there is a fine rear curved window featuring stained and leaded patterns. Note the figure '4' on the door to the cellar. The fixed seating and the baffles/screens with glazed panels in the top are all modern.

Note the water taps on both front and rear bar counters - that on the front bar still works (the rear bar one is not connected). Water taps are rare in England (but there are many in Scotland) as whisky is the only spirit that benefits from a little water. At the rear are the former stables - note the coaching arch on the left of the pub. A building on the rear left might looks like it may have been a brewery in the past.