Of all the micro pubs that now exist in the UK, this was the second to open, (after the Butcher's Arms, Herne, Kent). Landlord Peter opted to leave the 'rat race' himself, making use of the one-time newsagent's shop, with access from both the railway station platform and the station approach. Four changing beers and two ciders are kept in a cool room from where the customers, (max 20 seated), are served direct to their table, by the landlord himself. Popular with locals and County Durham real ale lovers, (the bus station is adjacent), the Rat Race is also visited by London imbibers, who take a day trip on the 3 hour Grand Central direct train service from Kings Cross. Not surprisingly, the pub has won many CAMRA awards during it`s existence, with its latest accolade being Local CAMRA branch 2020 Cider Pub of the Year. Closed Sundays and Mondays. Please note that the pub also closes during the licensee's annual holidays. Quality crisps, nuts and pork scratchings are available. Cash only. No dogs.