Gateshead’s character is shaped by its industrial heritage and its ongoing transformation, a narrative reflected in the diverse array of venues across the borough. From the southern bank of the River Tyne, a journey through the area reveals spaces that represent different eras. Many establishments occupy former industrial buildings, reimagined to host community and culture, echoing the city’s shift from heavy engineering towards a modern identity.
Along the Tyne Riverside, you can find contemporary arts venues and places to eat housed within structures that once served the docks, offering views and a connection to the river’s legacy. Take a look around Gateshead Pier, Tyne Dock, where remnants of maritime activity are still visible. Inland, areas such as Sunniside blend historic architecture with newer developments, where buildings might now serve as bars or independent shops, retaining their original character. The nearby Shipley Art Gallery Area provides a cultural focal point, whilst Trinity Square offers a contemporary experience.
Further west, in neighbourhoods such as Blaydon-on-Tyne, traditional community halls and pubs continue to serve as local gathering points, maintaining a connection to the area’s residential character. The Land of Oak and Iron Heritage Centre provides insight into the region’s mining and ironworking history. Also explore Gibside Estate, with its chapel and grounds, or trace the Nine Arches Viaduct, a remarkable feat of engineering. Events such as Newcastle Pride in Times Square and the annual Gateshead International Festival of Music at The Sage Gateshead further animate the city’s cultural life. The ongoing programme of exhibitions at BALTIC Centre for Contemporary Art also provides a regular draw for visitors. This directory aims to offer a clear overview of where Gateshead’s varied life unfolds, from the historic charm of Blaydon to the attractions near The Metrocentre.
Featured places are selected local venues we recommend or that partner with The City Brief.
Live Music Venue
The ClunyThe Cluny is a live music venue on Lime Street in Newcastle upon Tyne. Located in the Ouseburn Valley, the venue benefits from the area’s reputation for creative industries and independent businesses. The Cluny is known for its craft beer selection and consistently high-quality music programming.
View Info →Family & Kids
Pleased To Meet YouPleased To Meet You is a bar and kitchen on High Street in Gateshead, adding to the town center’s character. It’s known for its extensive selection of vinyl records available to play. Locals and visitors go there for a quick bite or a longer evening with drinks.
View Info →Nightlife & Music
As You Like ItAs You Like It is a pub on Bottle Bank in Gateshead. It’s close to the High Street, in an area that still feels traditional. As You Like It Gateshead is known for its wide selection of real ales and craft beers.
View Info →Mexican Restaurant
ChiquitoChiquito is a Mexican restaurant in the Metrocentre, Newcastle upon Tyne. Located in Grey’s Quarter, it’s easy to reach while you’re exploring the shopping and entertainment options. Chiquito Gateshead is well known for its margaritas and a fully customisable Tortilla Time section, letting you build your ideal meal.
View Info →Domain Name
UryUry Restaurants is a former textile mill offering a modern dining experience in Newcastle upon Tyne. Located on High Street in Gateshead Quays, Ury is part of a developing area known for its energy and accessibility. You can try their slow-cooked lamb shoulder and carefully crafted cocktail menu.
View Info →Discount Supermarket
Heron FoodsHeron Foods is a discount supermarket in the Gateshead Interchange area. Located on West Street within The Interchange Centre, it’s a familiar spot for people using this transport hub. Heron Foods Gateshead is known for its range of own-label fresh produce, making it a good option for everyday shopping.
View Info →961 total places
Mexican Restaurant
ChiquitoChiquito is a Mexican restaurant in the Metrocentre, Newcastle upon Tyne.
View Info →Domain Name
UryUry Restaurants is a former textile mill offering a modern dining experience in Newcastle upon Tyne.
View Info →Restaurant
SaborSabor is a restaurant on Shields Road in Gateshead’s Byker neighborhood, an area with a relaxed atmosphere and strong community spirit.
View Info →Restaurant
PortofinoYou can find Portofino on 1 Mosley Street in Gateshead.
View Info →Moulin Rouge Cafe & Grill is a cafe and grill on Coatsworth Road in Gateshead.
View Info →Café
The Coffee TraderThe Coffee Trader is a café on Northumberland Street in Newcastle upon Tyne.
View Info →87 total places
Contemporary Art Gallery
BALTIC CentreThe BALTIC Centre for Contemporary Art is a leading art gallery on the South Bank of the River Tyne.
View Info →Newcastle Arts Centre, on Blackfriars Street in Gateshead, is a multi-arts venue in an area with growing cultural activity.
View Info →492 total places
Live Music Venue
The ClunyThe Cluny is a live music venue on Lime Street in Newcastle upon Tyne.
View Info →As You Like It is a pub on Bottle Bank in Gateshead.
View Info →Pottery Studio
The KilnThe Kiln is a pottery studio and cafe on Hume Street in Newcastle upon Tyne’s Ouseburn.
View Info →Pub
Red HouseRed House is a pub on Sandhill in Newcastle upon Tyne.
View Info →Pub
The BodegaThe Bodega is a traditional pub on Westgate Road in Newcastle upon Tyne.
View Info →The Market Lane is a bar and restaurant on High Street in Gateshead.
View Info →101 total places
113 total places
The Barre Workout is a fitness studio offering barre-based exercise classes.
View Info →Wild Deer Fitness is a fitness centre on the Team Valley Estate in Gateshead.
View Info →Bodyzone Fitness is a gym located on Baltic Business Quarter in Gateshead.
View Info →Indoor Climbing Gym
Climb Newcastle @ The PoolClimb Newcastle @ The Pool is an indoor climbing gym on Shipley Place in Gateshead Quays.
View Info →City Baths is a public swimming pool on Swan Street in Gateshead.
View Info →Fitness Centre
NRG Gym NewcastleNRG Gym Newcastle is a Fitness Centre located on Fossway within the Newcastle Shopping Park in Gateshead.
View Info →37 total places
Discount Supermarket
Heron FoodsHeron Foods is a discount supermarket in the Gateshead Interchange area.
View Info →Supermarket
The Honey TreeThe Honey Tree is an organic supermarket on Heaton Road, serving the Gateshead Quays area of Newcastle Upon Tyne.
View Info →The Co-operative in Gateshead is a supermarket serving the local community.
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