Newcastle’s reputation for nightlife is world-renowned, and while the city centre has its super-clubs and chic cocktail bars, the true soul of Newcastle’s drinking culture lies in its traditional pubs.
There is no better place to experience this than the Newcastle Quayside. Combining spectacular river views, historic architecture, and exceptional local ales, this curated Quayside pub crawl takes you through the very best watering holes the city has to offer.
The Route: East to West
We recommend starting in the east, near the Ouseburn, and working your way west towards the High Level Bridge. This keeps the iconic Tyne bridges in your view as the sun goes down.
1. The Free Trade Inn
Location: St Lawrence Road (Ouseburn end)
Technically sitting just east of the Quayside proper, we must include the Free Trade Inn. It’s a Newcastle institution. Don’t let the slightly rough-around-the-edges exterior fool you; this is widely considered one of the best real ale pubs in Britain. The highlight: The unbeatable view of the Tyne and its bridges from the beer garden or the large windows.
2. The Tyne Bar
Location: Maling Street
Wander down the bank to where the Ouseburn river meets the Tyne. The Tyne Bar is an independent venue famous for its free live music and its unique beer garden, which is situated directly beneath the arches of the Glasshouse Bridge. The highlight: Great atmosphere, local music, and shelter from the rain under the bridge!
3. The Broad Chare
Location: Broad Chare (off the Quayside)
Moving onto the main Quayside, duck into the alleyway next to the Live Theatre to find The Broad Chare. This is a “proper pub” run by acclaimed local restaurateur Terry Laybourne. It offers perfectly kept beer and what might be the best pub snacks in the North East (try the Scotch egg or the hand-raised pork pie). The highlight: Exceptional food quality in a completely unpretentious setting.
4. The Crown Posada
Location: The Side
A short walk up ‘The Side’ (the steep, cobbled street leading away from the river) brings you to the Crown Posada. This is the second oldest pub in Newcastle. It’s tiny, narrow, and incredibly atmospheric, featuring original Victorian stained glass, a beautifully carved wooden bar, and a functioning record player. The highlight: The historic interior and the excellent, rotating selection of cask ales.
5. The Bridge Tavern
Location: Akenside Hill
Nestled directly beneath the towering stanchions of the Tyne Bridge, The Bridge Tavern features a bespoke microbrewery on the ground floor. You can sip pints while watching the brewing process happen right next to you. They also boast a fantastic roof terrace that sits directly under the bridge. The highlight: Freshly brewed, hyper-local beer and a stunning roof terrace.
Extending the Night
If you finish this route and still want more, you’re perfectly positioned to explore more of Newcastle’s nightlife.
- Want cocktails? Head up the hill to Grey Street or the Bigg Market.
- Want clubbing? The famous ‘Diamond Strip’ on Collingwood Street is just a five-minute walk away.
- Want late-night food? Grab a kebab or pizza from the many takeaways around the Bigg Market, a true Newcastle weekend tradition.
Tips for a Great Quayside Crawl
- Pace yourself: Newcastle’s local ales (like those from Wylam Brewery or Tyne Bank) can be stronger than standard pub beers.
- Dress codes: Traditional pubs don’t have dress codes, but if you plan to move on to the premium bars on Collingwood Street later, you’ll need smart-casual attire.
- When to go: Saturday afternoons offer a buzzing atmosphere, but Sunday afternoons are perfect for combining a pint with the famous Quayside Sunday Market.
