In the Newcastle podcast episode, we vada the online reviews for the gay bars and clubs of Newcastle’s pink triangle, popping into Boulevard, Bank Bar, Powerhouse, Rusty’s, The Yard and The Eagle. Along the way we discuss Cher, pole dancing and the perils of squatting!
Fun Facts about Newcastle
Newcastle, jewel of the North East, was recently voted the best city in the UK for food, fashion and nightlife! Newcastle began life as a Roman fort on Hadrian’s Wall and during the industrial revolution, Newcastle’s location on the River Tyne made it a leading centre for ship building. Ever at the forefront of innovation, Newcastle train station was the first covered train station in the world, opened by Queen Victoria in 1850. And, more recently, the first ever Greggs opened there in 1951. Newcastle is considered one of the coldest cities in England, averaging between 3 and 6 Celsius in the winter. But that does not deter visitors, as the Geordie accent is often voted one of the friendliest in the UK, and the city remains one of the most popular stag do destinations in the country. Famous Geordies include Cheryl Cole, Charlie Hunnan (who played Nathan in Queer as Folk) and Neil Tennant of the Pet Shop Boys (who hails from nearby North Shields).
The Newcastle Gay Scene
Newcastle’s gay village, an area known to the locals as the ‘Pink Triangle’, is within walking distance of Newcastle Central Station and located around Times Square and the Centre for Life. With a mix of lively clubs, stylish bars, and inclusive venues, the ‘Pink Triangle’ is a must-visit destination for locals and visitors alike. Expect an open, friendly crowd and unforgettable nights in one of the UK’s top LGBTQ+ scenes!
Boulevard
Boulevard is a drag cabaret venue, offering a unique blend of burlesque and Broadway-style shows, with performances changing seasonally, ensuring fresh and exciting content throughout the year. Rated number one nightlife venue in Newcastle on Trip Advisor, Boulevard was originally set up in 2010 by drag artiste Betty Legs Diamond, who had worked for many years at Funny Girls, a similar venue in Blackpool. In 2016, Betty left the cast and Danni Dee (that’s Danni with an ‘i’) stepped up as leading lady, flanked by her team of Broadway Dancers. It’s a ticketed venue with various options: there’s a bar and standing area in front of the stage (indeed at the end of the night the dancers often leap onto the bar for a high-kicking finale), with seated booths further back offering table service and a food menu. Compere Miss Rory introduces a series of cabaret performances across the evening, boasting (according to the website) “stunning costumes, hilarious comedy and fabulous dance routines”.
Website: https://www.boulevardnewcastle.co.uk/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/boulevardncl
Address: 3-9 Churchill St, Newcastle upon Tyne NE1 4HF
Powerhouse
The Newcastle Gateshead website explains that Powerhouse is “the biggest and longest running nightclub in the whole of Newcastle. The sprawling club spans four floors, with an excellent rooftop smoking area. Powerhouse started life as gay club back in the 1980s and became so popular that they now welcome all – because after all, it’s about the music. Come dance the night away into the early hours at this fun and vibrant nightclub”.
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/PowerhouseClub/
Address: 7-19 Westmorland Rd, Newcastle upon Tyne NE1 4EQ
Bank Bar
Bank Bar is in Scotswood Road and is known for its welcoming atmosphere, catering to a diverse clientele, including the LGBTQ+ community. The interior features oak panelling and a mix of seating options, creating a cozy yet lively environment. Regular music plays throughout the day, and the bar hosts various events, including karaoke nights and drag performances by the likes of Bonnie Love, Mother Tucka, and Phyllis Tyne, who runs a ‘disco bingo’ every Sunday evening.
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/bankbarnewcastle
Address: 12-14 Scotswood Rd, Newcastle upon Tyne NE4 7JB
Rusty’s
Rusty’s is a staple of Newcastle’s LGBTQ+ scene, known for its friendly vibe, affordable drinks, and fabulous entertainment. Located in the city’s vibrant Times Square, this lively bar welcomes everyone with open arms. Expect camp pop classics, singalong anthems, and dazzling drag performances. With a spacious dancefloor, glittering decor, and an electric yet relaxed atmosphere, Rusty’s is perfect for an unforgettable night out. Whether you’re dancing until late or enjoying cocktails with friends, Rusty’s guarantees a fun, inclusive, and feel-good experience at the heart of Newcastle’s gay nightlife.
Website: https://rustys.co.uk/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/RustysNewcastleShowbar
Address: Unit 3 & 4 International Centre for Life Times Square, Newcastle upon Tyne NE1 4EP
The Yard
The Yard is Newcastle’s longest running gay bar and LGBTQ+ safe space. This Newcastle staple has a long history and has been open since the 80’s, offering a welcoming and inclusive space in the heart of the Pink Triangle. With its stylish yet relaxed atmosphere, it’s perfect for socialising over drinks, whether you’re starting your night or settling in for an evening with friends. The outdoor terrace provides a great spot for a quieter chat, while the upstairs bar turns up the energy with music and dancing.
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TheYardOscars/
Address: 2 Scotswood Rd, Newcastle upon Tyne NE4 7JB
The Eagle
The Eagle proudly bills itself as the only Amsterdam style leather, denim and uniform bar in the North East of England and is a go-to spot in Newcastle for those who enjoy a traditional old-style, somewhat cruisy, gay bar experience.
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/theeaglenewcastle/
Address: 42 Scotswood Rd, Newcastle upon Tyne NE4 7JD
And finally, please remember that even if we are a little tongue in cheek in our podcast, we do love each and every venue on the scene, and we urge you all to get out there and support your local gay bars!