Darlington’s Number Twenty2 celebrates 30 years of business

It will be 30 years on Saturday, since Number Twenty2, located at 20-22 Coniscliffe Road, first opened its doors on March 7, 1995. 

The venue launched after its original owner, Ralph Wilkinson, secured a restricted license in October 1994, despite significant scrutiny from the Licensing Justices at magistrates’ court.

Number Twenty 2, Coniscliffe Road in Darlington (Image: THE NORTHERN ECHO) Wilkinson’s solicitor, Alan Vickers, successfully argued that the venue should be classified as an alehouse rather than a pub.

At the time, Darlington’s Quaker heritage meant restrictions were in place preventing new pubs from opening west of Skinnergate and Grange Road.

The conditions of the license included a ban on spirits, no Sunday trading, and a limited selection of ales, wines, and porters.

Despite these constraints, Number Twenty2 quickly gained a reputation for quality beer, particularly real ale.

1995 to 2025 (Image: RALPH WILKINSON) One of its signature offerings, White Boar, crafted by Wilkinson himself, set the pub apart from more traditional venues in town.

30-year weekend celebrations will see Twenty2 sell nine gallons of White Boar priced at £1.40- the price it was in the first year of them opening.

Drawing from his experience he had with The Tap & Spile Pubs when running The Famous Firkin Supply Company and wholesaling around Edinburgh and Glasgow, Ralph aimed to bring something new and refreshing to Darlington.

1995 to 2025 (Image: RALPH WILKINSON) “30 years ago to me now appears as if it were the dark ages,” he said.

“Since then, Darlington has seen about 12 to 14 new bars open around the road creating a culture around Darlington which I love.”

Success came quickly, and by 1998, just three years after opening, Number Twenty2 was runner-up in the Campaign for Real Ale (CAMRA) National Pub of the Year competition.

In November 2023, Wilkinson stepped away from the business at age 68, handing over the reins to Vicki Ramsay, who had worked alongside him for 15 years.

Current owner Vicki Ramsay and previous owner Ralph Wilkinson handing over the keys in November 2023 (Image: RALPH WILKINSON) “It was an easy decision to hand over the keys to Vicki,” Wilkinson said. “She has always upheld what Number Twenty2 is all about and has kept that fantastic atmosphere and family feel.”

Reflecting on his departure, Ralph added: “I have missed it quite a lot, but it’s fantastic to still see the amazing staff and customers all come together as one massive family, and I’m glad that legacy has remained.

“We have always focused on quality and looking after people.

“That I believe is something that has helped us become and stay so successful over the years.”

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1995 to 2025 (Image: RALPH WILKINSON) The pub’s interior has evolved subtly over the decades, reflecting Ralph’s vision of making “evolutionary rather than revolutionary changes” to the place.

Today, under Vicki Ramsay Hammond’s management, Number Twenty 2 offers more than 20 beers and ciders on tap, as well as alcohol-free options and a variety of other drinks.

“Over 30 years, Ralph has built not just an institution but a community,” Vicki said. “Hopefully, we will be lucky enough to toast to another 30 years!”