Café 16 — Café in Gateshead

Café 16 is a café in Newcastle Upon Tyne, on St Nicholas' Church Yard near the cathedral. The space is known for its Afternoon Tea, which should be booked in advance, and its unique social mission. Locals and visitors go to Café 16 for a quick coffee or a leisurely lunch. The venue offers a welcoming atmosphere close to the historic heart of Newcastle. Café 16 has a distinctive character as a local destination.

Café 16 occupies a Grade I listed building originally constructed for religious worship as part of Newcastle Cathedral. The Gothic Revival architecture features natural light through stained glass and timber beams. Established in 2021, the venue’s decor reflects the building’s history. It operates with a charity-led employment model, staffing individuals who are former prisoners and trained by the Oswin Project. Freshly baked goods come directly from a bakery within HMP Northumberland, connecting the present to the site’s past as a 1916 Royal Flying Corps station. The calm atmosphere and moderate crowd density make it a comfortable setting.

Café 16 functions as a café offering coffee, tea, and cakes. It’s particularly good for a relaxing afternoon, with the pre-booked Afternoon Tea being popular. Café 16 provides step-free and wheelchair access. The charity-led employment model attracts socially conscious locals and visitors. It is family-friendly, group-friendly, and solo-friendly, making it accessible for many.