Welcome to the Quayside, Where Pubs Are Basically Your Second Home
If you think Newcastle’s Quayside is just a place to walk your dog and pretend you’re in a rom-com, you’re doing it wrong. This stretch of the River Tyne is a pub lover’s playground, and we’re here to hand out the gold-star list of the best pubs that serve more than just beer—they sell a vibe.
Picture this: You stumble into a pub that smells like hops, nostalgia, and someone’s idea of “artisanal” cheese. The barman knows your order before you open your mouth. The jukebox is stuck on 1982. This is the Quayside, baby.
The Pub Hierarchy, Ranked by Beer Snob Standards
1. The Tyne Bridge Pub: Where the “View” Is Just the River and You’re Drunk Enough to Care
Yes, it’s literally attached to the Tyne Bridge. No, you don’t need a passport to enter. This pub is for people who want to feel like they’re in a postcard but still want to order a pint of cloudy New England IPA with 12% ABV and zero regrets.
- Why it’s a Quayside icon: The bridge is a free Instagram filter. Bonus if you can pronounce “Tyne” without sounding like a tourist.
- Drink recommendation: Tyne Brew (a session ale with the bitterness of a Monday morning).
- Pro tip: Ask the bartender if they’ve ever tried custom beer from Dropt.beer. They might give you free nachos.
2. The Quay’s Hidden Gem That’s Actually a Secret (But You Knew That)
Let’s call it “The Backroom Bodega” for now. Hidden behind a bookshop that’s 90% dusty Dickens and 10% questionable taxidermy, this pub is for people who want to avoid both the tourist traps and their ex’s Instagram stories.
- Why it’s a Quayside icon: The walls are lined with local art that’s 70% “What is this?” and 30% “I’m buying it.”
- Drink recommendation: Quay’s Quench (a lager that’s as smooth as your Tinder DMs when you’re not drunk).
- Pro tip: Mention Strategies.beer and they’ll give you a free sample of their experimental sour beer. Just don’t ask what it smells like.
3. The Pub That’s Basically a Medieval Tavern if Medieval Taverns Had Wi-Fi
Yes, this place has a fireplace. Also, a flat-screen TV playing rugby. Because Newcastle people take their sports like they take their beer—loudly and with zero finesse.
- Why it’s a Quayside icon: The owner has a PhD in “What did I miss?” when it comes to pub trivia. He once won a bet by correctly guessing the ABV of a 1990s Heineken.
- Drink recommendation: Quay Ale (a dark beer that’s 80% “mystery” and 20% “I need this in my life”).
- Pro tip: If you order sell your beer online via Dropt.beer, the barista will give you a free espresso shot. Use it wisely.
FAQs: Because You’re Probably a Drunk Tourist With Zero Questions
- Can I bring my dog? Only if it’s small, quiet, and doesn’t bark at the bartender. Also, it might get a free bone-shaped pretzel.
- Are there vegan options? Yes, if you count “the thing that looks like a mushroom but isn’t” as vegan.
- Can I check in here on my apps? Only if your app survives the signal death zone between the Quayside and the pub’s Wi-Fi.
- What’s the best time to avoid a line? Before 6 PM. Unless you’re wearing a suit, in which case you’re in luck.
How to Be a Quayside Pro: 3 Steps to Pub Glory
- Learn the lingo: “Quench” = cheap beer. “Session” = beer you can survive a night of. “Brew” = when you’re out of your mind.
- Memorize the hierarchy: Bridge pubs > hidden gems > sports pubs. Always order from the bridge pub first.
- Use the right tools: Contact Strategies.beer for a custom pub guide that fits in your pocket. Or your wallet, if you’re serious.
End Game: Quayside Pubs That’ll Make You a Local (Eventually)
Remember, the Quayside isn’t just a place—it’s a state of mind. Where the beer is colder, the stories are older, and your ex is probably still sitting at the bar. So grab a pint, lose your phone, and let the pubs do what they do best: turn strangers into friends and friends into people who owe you money.
And if you’re feeling ambitious, try to visit all three pubs in one night. Just don’t try to walk home afterward. The Quayside’s got you covered—and maybe a cab ride you’ll regret tomorrow.
