The best venues for gigs in Newcastle revealed!

Newcastle has always had a massive live music scene, whether it’s local bands throwing intimate shows or big names in town for one night only.  With a surplus of venues, it leaves the question, which one is the best? Well, we’re here to give you a rundown of the best venues for gigs in Newcastle.

1. O2 Academy Newcastle

My last event here was seeing Waterparks and You Me At Six. Standing was staggered, with crowd control barriers dotted around to maintain security and prevent any crushing, which was very helpful. The atmosphere was electric, though still very safe. The lighting rig (to nerd out for a moment) is fully kitted out, and I’m always wishing techs had Meet & Greets like the bands. The security staff are always ready to help (and if you’re on the lookout for a job, I hear O2 is a great employer in most student cities), and the bar staff always have free water for those wilder shows.

2. Northumbria Union Reds Bar

Note: (This bar is CASH ONLY)

This one is situated directly on Northumbria’s campus grounds, in a convenient central spot. Drinks are cheap – a big thank you to student deals – and there is the option to either sit or stand. Reds also offers karaoke nights, which are always fun IMO… in a horrifying kind of way.

3. World Headquarters 

This one’s for fans of smaller alternative and metal bands. The moshing here is intimate and intense yet still feels safe. This is by virtue of the strict adherence to punk ‘rules’ and community. World HQ is also a generally great place to go see DJ sets upstairs, with multiple rooms of dancing and socialising. Outside in the smoking area, if you’re going to a Blush night, there’s usually live skating and skateboarding to watch, which is great for those of us who want something to do while the rest of our friends have a cigarette…

4. NX

NX is a mid-sized venue with both concerts and events running. You’ll never walk down Grainger Street without seeing a decently sized queue running down NX’s side street. They also host club nights, such as the beloved Emo Night, Musical Theatre Rave, and sets by individual DJs.

5. The Cluny

Another smaller venue, open to all kinds of genres and performers. If you’re into mid-sized bands, especially within the indie scene, you’ll end up at the Cluny at some point. Their website has a lot of information on sexual harassment protection and prevention, as well as a full document of accessibility for the disabled, giving you peace of mind and preparation before attending.

6. The Boiler House

My last visit to Boiler House was to see Set It Off for my birthday, and that was a great experience. The venue was spacious with high ceilings and good ventilation. What I will say is that there are a couple of pillars that can be in the way of the stage, depending on where you are standing. Merch is located way off to the side, but isn’t super crowded, though it can get quite loud.

7. Utilita Arena

My last experience here was seeing Bring Me The Horizon and Bad Omens. Despite being a large arena venue, the space was still well ventilated and spacious (God bless air conditioning). There were a few issues within the crowd, but security was tight and responded very quickly. Concertgoers with health issues were well taken care of by staff if they fell ill or passed out in the heat/crowd. Merch stands were set out in a way not to be too contained.

8. Trillians

If you’re after a tribute night, Trillians is the place to be. Boasting delicious musically inspired pitchers and cocktails (my personal favourite is the Even Flow), Trillians is a place for the casual viewer and hardcore music enthusiast alike. On nights without a band, there is also a jukebox, so you can get a taste of what Newcastle’s music scene is listening to.

9. Head of Steam

This venue may be the smallest one I’ve ever been in. This is another one for fans of little alternative and indie bands. The venue’s proximity to Central Station also makes it ideal for a post-train journey night out. They describe themselves as ‘a popular breeding ground for talent’, hosting new and upcoming acts. They also offer themselves up as a venue-for-hire for events, with the choice to have a buffet or drinks package included.

10. Riverside

My most recent experience here was also seeing Weathers and Set It Off (I do love them). I was pleasantly surprised by how much bigger Riverside seemed on the inside to how it looked outside, and was put into mind of Mary Poppins’ bag. Merchandise was in its own ‘room’ or alcove beneath the balconies, which gave people plenty of space to move around. Crowds remained controlled throughout, and sound carried well all the way to the back of the room.

All in all, Newcastle’s music scene is a great space to be in. Be sure to make the very most of your time!