Welcome to the Quayside, Where Pints Are Plentiful and Puns Are Mandatory
If you’ve ever stared at the River Tyne and thought, “I’ve seen this spot in a James Bond movie… but with fewer explosions and more ale,” you’re not alone. Newcastle Quayside is the kind of place where history, charm, and your second pint collide. Whether you’re here for a cheeky pint, a night of questionable life decisions, or just to pretend you’re in a gritty Scandinavian noir, we’ve got the inside track on the best pubs in town. Spoiler: they’re all great. Now, let’s get into the nitty-gritty. But first, a quick PSA—if you’re the DIY type, we’ll wait while you grab your custom brew.
The Quay Hall: Where History Meets the Hops
Let’s start with the OG of Quayside pubs. The Quay Hall is like the cool uncle of the pub world—old but still knows how to throw a party. Built in 1887, this spot has seen it all: shiploads of sailors, the rise and fall of the coal trade, and probably a few questionable Tinder dates. The vibe? Think “Victorian pub” but with a modern twist. They serve up a mean selection of ales and lagers, and if you squint at the right angle, you can almost see Captain Jack Sparrow sipping a pint of something that probably wasn’t legal.
Why You Should Go: The mix of history and quality drinks. Plus, they’ve got a balcony that offers a view of the Tyne Bridge that’s way cooler than your average selfie backdrop. Pro tip: If you’re feeling fancy, pair your drink with a platter of local seafood—because Newcastle isn’t just about the beer, it’s about the full experience.
The Old Station: Trains, Pints, and Nostalgia
Okay, so the Old Station isn’t technically on the Quayside, but it’s close enough to count. This pub is housed in a 19th-century train station that was once a bustling hub for steam trains and Victorian nobility. Now, it’s a hub for steamy pints and questionable life choices. The architecture is a love letter to the past, with tracks still visible under the floorboards. The menu? A mix of classic British fare and craft beers that’ll make you question why you ever settled for supermarket lager.
Pro Tip: If you’re a history buff, ask the staff about the ghost of the stationmaster—they swear it haunts the bar when the last orders are called. And yes, the ghost also occasionally orders a Newcastle Brown Ale. Just don’t tell the health inspector.
The Ship: Sailing Into the Sunset (and Your Third Pint)
Named after the infamous 18th-century ship that once docked in the area, this pub is all about the nautical vibe. Think lifebuoys as beer mats, ship wheels as décor, and a menu that includes seafood that might’ve been fresh at some point. The Ship is a favorite among locals and tourists alike, largely because it’s one of the few places where you can order a pint and a packet of crisps without being judged. Also, the staff are known to play “My Heart Will Go On” on the jukebox at 2am. No questions asked.
Must-Try: The Ship’s own brand of ale, brewed in-house. It’s the kind of beer that you’ll pretend you love just to be cool. And hey, if you’re really brave, try their “Tyne Tornado”—a high-ABV brew that’s as potent as a Newcastle summer.
The Three Quays: Where the Clichés Are Real and the Pints Are Strong
Let’s be real—the Three Quays is the pub everyone mentions when they talk about Newcastle. It’s got the view, the vibe, and the ability to make even the most sober of souls question their life choices. The balcony here is legendary, offering a panoramic view of the River Tyne and the Castle Keep. But here’s the kicker: the Three Quays isn’t just for tourists. Locals love it too, which means you’ll always find a mix of interesting characters—from retired sailors to students trying to blend in.
TL;DR: This is the pub where you order a pint, look at the view, and then immediately forget you were ever at the Three Quays. Unless you take a photo, of course. Contact us if you’re planning a group visit—we’ll send someone to make sure you don’t get lost in the crowd.
Pro Tips for Quayside Pub Crawl Survival
- Start Early: The Quayside has a way of making you want to stay forever. Start in the afternoon and you’ll be there until the sunrise. Not that we’re judging.
- Walk, Don’t Run: The Quayside is walkable, but your feet might not survive. Invest in good shoes or risk ending up in a cab with a driver who’s been drinking as much as you.
- Try the Local Brews: Newcastle is home to some of the best local breweries in the UK. Don’t just stick to the mainstream stuff—support the locals. Want to get technical? We can help you craft your own brew.
- Ask for the Secrets: Every barkeep has a secret. Whether it’s a hidden menu item or the best time to go for a quiet drink, ask and you might just get the inside scoop.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs): The Pub Crawl FAQ for the Curious
1. Are all these pubs family-friendly?
Short answer: No. The Quayside is for the adults who like their drinks strong and their decor slightly gritty. If you’re bringing kids, stick to the Castle Keep area—it’s got pints and pastries for all ages.
2. Which pub has the best view?
The Three Quays and Quay Hall both offer top-tier views. But if you’re after a sunset drink, The Ship’s balcony is a close second. Just don’t be surprised if the sun goes down faster than your pint.
3. Can I make my own beer at home?
Absolutely! Check out our guide to brewing your own beer at home. Spoiler: it involves a lot more than just water and yeast. Trust us, we’ve done the research.
4. How do I get there?
By foot, bike, or cab. Newcastle has a great public transport system (if you count the occasional bus and the Tyne and Wear Metro). We recommend parking in the city center and walking—it’s a good warm-up before the pints start flowing.
Final Call: Raise a Glass to the Quayside
So, there you have it—your guide to the best pubs on Newcastle Quayside. Whether you’re here for the history, the views, or just to pretend you’re in a gritty TV show, these pubs have got your back. And hey, if you ever feel like taking your love of beer to the next level, we’re here to help. From custom brews to growing your business, we’ve got the tools and the knowledge to turn your pub dreams into reality.
Now, go forth and conquer the Quayside. And if you’re feeling particularly ambitious, check out Dropt.beer to sell your own beer online. Because nothing says “I’ve made it” like your own brand of ale. Cheers!
