Growing up in Worcestershire, I could count on just one hand the number of gay venues I had visited before travelling up the A1 to start university in Newcastle. I hadn’t dared step foot inside the gay bar closest to me, having heard one horror story too many.
Obviously, Newcastle’s vibrant array provided quite the shift. Fast forward a year, I’d say that I’ve become quite acquainted with the offering. And I certainly know which places to avoid.
A night out should tick three boxes for me. The first is good music. I have found this to be the easiest for a gay bar to cross off. Personally, I do not think there is anything more pleasing to the ear than the likes of Sophie Ellis-Bextor and Kylie Minogue on the dance floor.
Safety is also a necessity. You would like to think that a welcoming reception is guaranteed in spaces tailored specifically towards queer people; I have unfortunately found it is not always the case.
And lastly, cheap drinks are a must. As a student, I can no longer justify splurging on shots, especially when trying to set aside a cheesy-chip-budget for later on.
The five venues that follow are ranked from my least favourite to personal treasures. Of course, my experiences may differ from others, but I feel they can somewhat assist you in choosing where you next pay a visit on a Friday night. Trust me, I have made the mistakes so you don’t have to.
85 – 89 Blandford Street, Newcastle upon Tyne, NE1 3PZ Image credit: Dan Finch
I remember the evening well. Along with a group of friends, I had arranged an evening in Lane7. Naturally, we had planned to venture into a bar or two on the way down. In hindsight, we would have been better off not bothering.
Its intriguing name and signature cow statue upon the roof had initially lured us in. The doors then opened to what can only be described as a pitiful seniors’ neon disco. Although, one that only the DJ and regular drunk had bothered to attend. Hoping to ease the awkward atmosphere with a drink, we made a sprint for the bar (only to be followed by said regular, who was maybe all of our ages combined).
As the elderly gentleman continued to pester one of our party, we sat ourselves at a table. We were surrounded by emptiness and miserable strobe lights which themselves seemed to be pining for the exit, all whilst a continuous house mix that felt rather inappropriate pounded on.
Needless to say, I wouldn’t return, and I suggest you didn’t either. Unless, watered-down vodka and a lack of literally any civilisation sounds ideal to you, that is.
7-19 Westmorland Road, Newcastle upon Tyne, NE1 4EQ Image credit: Dan Finch.
This nightclub is notorious for housing the last men standing. As the clock strikes 3am and Rusty’s shuts its doors, there is always an army of queer warriors to be seen crossing the road and paying a ridiculous charge in hopes of keeping their night alive.
I have only made it so far a handful of times. And from what I have gathered, Powerhouse is pretty hit or miss. Whilst a catalogue of gay-adored pop hits are assured, you never quite know which crowd you’re going to get. Sometimes, it’s like a sequel to Rusty’s with all your season-returning favourites. At others, it can be a lion’s den with no one below 30 in sight. In the case of the latter, run.
Whilst a catalogue of gay-adored pop hits are assured, you never quite know which crowd you’re going to get.
Perhaps it would be best to avoid this place on a weekday.
4-10 Scotswood Road, Newcastle upon Tyne, NE4 7JB Image credit: Dan Finch
Two floors of great music and friendly staff are highlights of the bar, Switch. Whilst I am far from a regular, the atmosphere in this bar never disappoints. It is located in a prime spot and is always free to enter so I can only urge you to give it a go.
Unfortunately, this place only makes it to number three on my list due to the financial draining of their drink prices. Sixteen great British pounds I paid for two doubles. Sixteen. My advice would thus be to pre-game hard before making your way down here – albeit responsibly, of course.
Additionally, Google reviews had a few unpleasant things to say about the toilet facilities, hence the knocking down by a couple places. All in all, however, I’ll be back.
78 Scotswood Road, Newcastle upon Tyne, NE4 7JH Image credit: Dan Finch
Without a doubt, Bobby’s Bar is the friendliest and most inclusive venue I have been to in Newcastle. There is always something going on here. Whether is be an open drag night or a Britney Spears tribute performance, entertainment is always promised beyond their wide-open doors.
Upon my initial visit, I found the venue’s notably smaller size to be pretty daunting. Yet, I soon discovered that its intimate and communal atmosphere was one of the most special things about this place.
I soon discovered that its intimate and communal atmosphere was one of the most special things about this place.
Bobby’s stage has been blessed by various British drag phenomenons such as Danny Beard and Cheddar Gorgeous. And whilst we’re on the topic, the renowned cabaret pub is currently hosting viewing parties for the latest season of RuPaul’s Drag Race UK. With an all-North-East top three, the energy during last week’s semi-final episode was unmatched.
My recent visit to Bobby’s for a Drag Race viewing party. (Follow @CannyQueeries on TikTok for more!)
A good time is practically guaranteed in Bobby’s, I just had to knock a couple points off for its lack of a proper dance floor. But don’t get me wrong, I imagine a boogie is very much possible and encouraged.
Unit 3 & 4 International Centre for Life Times Square, Newcastle upon Tyne, NE1 4EP Image credit: Dan Finch
I mean, who is surprised? This place was the first gay venue I visited in the Toon. Perhaps, that is the reason it holds such a special place in my heart. Either that or the bond I have since formed with Gladys Duffy, the drag queen behind the decks on a Friday night.
My requirements previously mentioned are all met in Rusty’s. Drinks are not too pricey and, for the most part, the crowds are cordial. There has been many a time I have made a best friend on the dance floor, only to never see them again.
As for the music, it is as if I have control of the playlist. Every time you think you have heard your ultimate favourite, Duffy reminds you of that classic Girls Aloud anthem you still know every word to. On top of that, she will always take song suggestions. Literal heaven on earth.
I will probably never get bored of this bar. It is home to many memories of my first year at university and I look forward still to so many more. I’ll see you there next week?
