Another long time favourite of mine, and based on how many people are always there, many other locals. While the exterior evokes a feeling of Britain, it’s the interiors where you really begin to feel that you aren’t in Markham. Located on Markham Main Street North, this pub offers it’s guests a wide variety of drinks (naturally, it’s a pub!) and where it really shines is the food!
A Tradition of Support
I have to thank the Markham Mens Recreational Hockey league for introducing me to this place years ago. The Duchess of Markham is a long time supporter of the league, as well as baseball and probably other leagues around town. Sunday nights they reserve the upstairs for the league and it makes for some great fun after the games. I love supporting local business and they definitely reciprocate!
A Taste of Britain in Markham
As you enter The Duchess of Markham, you’re transported to a traditional British pub experience like no other. Lots of dark wood furnishings, a great bar that’s always busy, a crackling fireplace and TV’s showing a variety of sports. I always appreciate the friendly faces behind the bar, every detail exudes the charm and authenticity of a classic British establishment. In the warmer weather they have a back and front patio (also with screens) for the sports fans out there.
But it’s not just the ambiance that sets The Duchess apart—it’s the food. Prepare your taste buds for a culinary journey through Britain’s finest flavors, from hearty bangers and mash to crispy fish and chips, savory shepherd’s pie to indulgent sticky toffee pudding. Each dish is crafted with care and precision, delivering a taste of home for Brits and a delicious discovery for newcomers. I can say that 99.9% of the time I go there I order their chicken wings. These are not your ordinary skinny wings with a weak sauce, these are BIG and come in a wide variety of sauces and rubs! So delicious.
A Hub of Community and Connection
What truly makes The Duchess of Markham special is its role as a hub of community and connection. Here, people of all ages gather to socialize, unwind, and share in the simple joys of good food and good company. Whether you’re a regular patron or a first-time visitor, you’ll be greeted with warmth and hospitality, making you feel like part of the family from the moment you walk through the door.
From lively conversations at the bar to friendly banter with other patrons, The Duchess fosters an atmosphere of camaraderie and inclusivity. Like a true British pub, you will find families here mingling with groups of people of all ages and ethnicities. It’s a place where stories are shared, friendships are forged, and memories are made—a true home away from home for Markham’s residents and visitors alike.
Conclusion
In a fast-paced world where traditions often fade and communities can feel fragmented, The Duchess of Markham stands as a steadfast reminder of the power of tradition, community, and connection. With its unwavering support for local sports teams, its authentic British charm, and its welcoming embrace of all who enter its doors, The Duchess continues to be a beloved institution in the heart of Markham—a place where everyone feels like royalty.
What's Your Best Duchess story?
Paul, the owner, is always mingling ensuring all his guests feel welcome and appreciated and that everything is running according to his high standards. If you have a great story, be sure to leave it here.
