Newcastle’s entertainment and nightlife scene is vibrant and varied, making it one of the top destinations for nightlife in the UK. Recognized for its energetic atmosphere, Newcastle offers a plethora of options ranging from traditional pubs to trendy nightclubs, live music venues, and unique themed experiences.
Nightlife Overview
Newcastle was ranked as Great Britain’s number one tourist attraction for nightlife by The Rough Guide to Britain and has consistently been recognized in various awards for its lively scene. In 2023, it was voted the best city in the UK for food, fashion, and nightlife, coming third in Europe and seventh in the world for nightlife destinations according to Tripadvisor Travellers’ Choice Awards
Popular Nightlife Areas
Bigg Market
- Description: A bustling area filled with traditional pubs and vibrant bars, perfect for a lively night out.
- Highlights: Known for its affordable drinks and a youthful crowd, it’s a great starting point for a night out.
Collingwood Street (Diamond Strip)
- Description: Renowned for high-end bars and clubs, this area attracts a more upscale clientele.
- Highlights: Offers stylish venues like Barluga and Pleased to Meet You, known for their cocktails and atmosphere.
Osborne Road, Jesmond
- Description: A popular area among students and young professionals, featuring a mix of pubs and bars.
- Highlights: Venues like The Jesmond Dene House and The Cluny offer a relaxed vibe with live music.
Quayside
- Description: Famous for its scenic views of the River Tyne, this area has a mix of bars and restaurants.
- Highlights: Popular spots include The Pitcher & Piano and BrewDog, which offer great drinks with a view.
The Gate
- Description: A modern entertainment complex featuring a cinema, restaurants, and bars.
- Highlights: Known for late-night entertainment, it’s a great place to catch a film before heading out
Ouseburn Valley
- Description: A cultural hub with a range of independent bars and music venues.
- Highlights: Home to The Ouseburn Farm and The Tyne Bar, it’s perfect for those looking for a more alternative scene.
Nightclubs and Live Music Venues
Utilita Arena Newcastle
- Address: Arena Way, Newcastle upon Tyne NE4 7NA
- Description: The largest indoor arena in the North East of England, with a capacity to seat more than 11,000 people. It hosts major concerts, sporting events, and exhibitions, attracting some of the biggest names in music
O2 City Hall Newcastle (now NX Newcastle)
- Address: Northumberland Rd, Newcastle upon Tyne NE1 8SF
- Description: Formerly known as O2 Academy Newcastle, this venue has undergone major refurbishment. It hosts performances by famous names in music and comedy, covering genres from rock to musicals. The venue can seat up to 2,000 people
Newcastle City Hall
- Description: One of the oldest music venues in the region, attracting big names and classic acts.
- Highlights: Offers a more intimate setting for concerts
- The Glasshouse International Centre for Music
- Address: St Mary’s Square, Gateshead Quays, Gateshead NE8 2JR
- Capacity: Up to 1,700 in the main hall
- Description: Formerly known as Sage Gateshead, The Glasshouse is a premier venue for live music, hosting a variety of genres from classical to contemporary. It features three performance spaces, including a stunning concert hall renowned for its acoustics.
- Highlights: Regular performances by the Royal Northern Sinfonia, as well as international artists across genres like rock, pop, jazz, and folk. The venue also hosts community music events and educational programs, making it a cultural hub in the region.
- Website: The Glasshouse
Riverside Newcastle
- Address: Neptune House, 1 Close, Newcastle upon Tyne NE1 3RQ
- Description: A large, split-level nightspot with a lounge and covered terrace, Riverside is known for weekend clubbing and live music events. It hosts a variety of genres and has become a staple in Newcastle’s nightlife scene since its opening
The Cluny
- Address: 36 Lime St, Newcastle upon Tyne NE1 2PQ
- Phone: +44 191 230 4474
- Description: A popular bar in the Ouseburn area, The Cluny is also a live music venue hosting both well-known acts and emerging talent. With its intimate atmosphere and diverse lineup, it’s a favorite among locals and visitors alike
Digital
- Address: Times Square, Scotswood Rd, Newcastle upon Tyne NE1 4EP
- Description: An expansive nightspot with sophisticated sound and light systems, Digital offers eclectic weekly club nights. It’s renowned for hosting both big-name DJs and up-and-coming artists, making it a cornerstone of Newcastle’s electronic music scene.
The Globe
- Address: 11 Railway St, Newcastle upon Tyne NE4 7AD
- Description: The Globe is a community-owned bar and music venue. It offers a more intimate setting for live performances and has become a popular spot for local and touring musicians.
Cobalt Studios
- Address: 10 Boyd St, Shieldfield, Newcastle upon Tyne NE2 1AP
- Description: Cobalt Studios is a multi-purpose arts venue that hosts live music events, art exhibitions, and creative workshops. It’s known for its eclectic programming and support of experimental and alternative music scenes.
The Black Swan
- Address: 67 Westgate Rd, Newcastle upon Tyne NE1 1SG
- Phone: +44 191 261 5618
- Description: Part of the Newcastle Arts Centre, The Black Swan is a cellar bar with a courtyard and performance space. It hosts live music and dance events, offering a unique atmosphere for intimate performances.
Tup Tup Palace
- Address: 7 St Nicholas St, Newcastle upon Tyne NE1 1RE
- Description: Known for hosting celebrity guests and being featured in the MTV show Geordie Shore, Tup Tup Palace is a popular nightclub with Eastern-inspired décor, including waterfalls. It offers a glamorous nightlife experience
Flares Newcastle
- Description: A retro nightclub celebrating the disco era with hits from the ’70s and ’80s.
- Highlights: Known for its fun atmosphere and themed nights.
Chachabuchi
- Description: A modern nightclub with a vibrant atmosphere and a mix of DJs.
- Highlights: Hosts daytime events and workshops, blending creativity with nightlife