Old Hartley, the pub’s mark reads Est. 1748
The Delaval Arms story
A historic pub in Seaton Sluice, with mid 18th century character and the North East coast close by.
History in the walls
A mid 18th century building with a long public house history.
The Delaval’s own mark carries the words “Old Hartley” and “Est. 1748”, while Historic England independently dates the building to the mid 18th century.
The earliest published name record sourced here is from 1855, and the building’s Grade II listing followed on 19 May 1950. Today, the same address is a place for everyday food, Sunday lunch and private gatherings.
View the Historic England listingA documented timeline
Four points in the building’s story.
Each date below comes from a published historical record, with the source available to read.
The building takes shape
Historic England dates the principal building to the mid 18th century.
Read the official listingThe Delaval Arms is named
Whellan’s directory documents the present name by 1855 and records M. Chapman at the Delaval Arms in Old Hartley.
View the 1855 directory recordA remarkable historic interior
CAMRA records the mosaic entrance, etched glass, original curved bar counter and panelling among the surviving features.
Read the CAMRA inventoryGrade II listing
The building is added to the National Heritage List for England.
Check the listing details
A story from the old coaching inn
The stone outside the Delaval.
The National Trust describes the old coaching inn as once being at the centre of the local fishing and mining community. Outside sits the Blue Stone, part of a local story associated with the celebrated strongman Willie Carr, who is reputed to have lifted it.
The tale remains part of Old Hartley’s folklore and keeps one of the village’s best known characters close to the pub.
Inside the Delaval
Past and present, under one roof.
Characterful rooms, food from the kitchen and Sunday lunch at the table.
Make a day of it
Where next?
Your table is waiting
Come in, settle down, stay awhile.
Plan your visit, choose the right space and continue to the Delaval’s official online booking service.