What’s your Friday night schedule? Do you have a go-to spot? Or are you more of a homebody?
We all have our creature comforts and trusty weekend routines, but sometimes it’s good to get out and try something different. Uh-huh, it’s time to shake things up with a few new cocktail bars in the ‘toon.
If your Fridays are starting to feel a little too similar, we’ve got your back. We’ve scoured the city to bring you the best of Newcastle’s alternative nightlife all in one place. Simple. Ready to go? Keep reading and add these quirky watering holes to your list.
Forget standing at the pub bar. First on our list is a bar that’s flipped the typical format on its head.
Meet Lane 7 Newcastle, a bar that combines great drinks and classic bowling. But that’s not all! Guests can also try their hand at ping pong, beer pong, pool, or karaoke. There are even arcade games for anyone with a taste for retro life!
You can also enjoy a sourdough pizza or a filling burger alongside drinks and cocktails. After all, bowling is hungry work. Great scran in Newcastle for all your mates.
Pro Tip: This is an excellent choice for group drinks or celebrations. The more, the merrier!
Prefer mini golf to bowling? We’ve got you covered.
Mr Mulligan’s Space Golf is a wacky mini golf bar that makes an average pub night look duller than ever. Here guests can explore three unique space-themed courses, all while sipping on a cocktail. This is also a popular spot for parties — so invite your mates!
Still looking for something a little different? Consider taking it back to the good old days. That’s right! We’re talking about the joy of being (very) young again.
Howlers Newcastle is a ball pit bar that’ll take you back to your childhood, except with alcohol and club beats. The unique bar also offers bingo, private karaoke sessions, and much more.
This is an excellent boredom buster if you’re trying to beat a monotonous weekend streak.
Perhaps you’re looking to splash out and splurge on something a little different. If so, we have the perfect luxury Newcastle city living bar for you.
3SIXTY is a polished champagne lounge that offers a luxe alternative to party bars. From sipping a glass of champers to taking in the city’s skyline, this is the perfect spot to unwind after a long week. You can also grab refined plates while here, and this is one of the best restaurants for a night out in Newcastle.
Pro Tip: 3SIXTY offers cocktail masterclasses for any budding bartender — a great addition to any night out.
Point Blank Newcastle offers a never-seen-before experience where guns and drinks collide.
Though it sounds like a recipe for disaster, this bar is non-stop fun and 100% safe. Guests can eat and drink while shooting from replica guns and laser technology. Each guest booth includes a personal armoury, a 123-inch screen, and a private cocktail booth. Very fancy.
Once you’re done, you can drink up in the venue’s vintage-style bar while watching live sports.
Craft bars are making their way to the mainstream, but these quirky bars are still a great pick for an alternative tipple.
The Head of Steam is a popular spot for an IPA or real ale, and you can always find weird and wonderful beers on tap. Don’t worry if a craft pint isn’t your thing. This bar also offers cocktails, spirits, and wines.
Calling all vintage lovers!
The last alternative bar on our list is The Exchange, a true 1920s speakeasy-style bar with a disguised entrance — a true hidden gem. When you’ve found your way in, you can enjoy cocktails, spirits, and food, all in an authentic ambience. Plus, you can get creative with your outfit! Perfect for vintage lovers.
Alongside exquisite cocktails, The Exchange has fabulous mocktail options. From Apple Mojitos to the Exchange Punch, the drinks menu will make all guests thirsty.
Whether you’re new to the city or looking for something new, these alternative haunts will keep you busy for weekends to come. Just make sure you book in advance!
Need somewhere to stay? We specialise in luxury serviced apartments in the heart of Newcastle City. Start your Newcastle apartment search now, or jump to our FAQs.