Even before the likes of Geordie Shore made their way onto our TV screens, the Northumbrian city of Newcastle has always had a bit of a reputation for being a great place to party.
The city centre has a winning combination of brilliant nightlife, plenty of variety, and a friendly Northern price tag. No wonder Newcastle is consistently rated the best spot in the UK for a stag do!
Ideas for stag and hen dos in Newcastle
Whatever you and the lads or lasses are into, Newcastle has something to offer that will make any stag or hen do a night out to remember. Here are some of the best options if you’re planning your own Geordie pre-wedding knees-up.
Live Comedy
Newcastle’s comedy heritage is star-studded, having produced some of the most recognisable entertainers on TV today, including Ant & Dec, Ross Noble, and Sarah Millican.
You can expect some excellent comedy here, so be sure to book a front-row seat for the stag himself.
Gateshead, in the centre of the city, has a huge range of big and small venues, so keep an eye out for live events during the weekend.
Live Music
If your group prefer the energy of a live gig to a sit-down pub crawl, Geordies have got your back.
The go-to spot for gigs large and small is the O2 Academy, a refurbished former bingo hall with plenty of spirit and great sound for rock, punk, and alternative bands.
If your stag is more of a soul man, check out Hoochie Coochie, where well-known jazz, funk, and soul artists perform intimate gigs in a smart, snazzy atmosphere.
Museums
Ideal for the Ross Geller of your group, Museums offer something more refined than your usual stag weekend and Newcastle University has some great museums to check out.
Take a tour of the Turbinia, built in 1894 as the world’s first turbine-powered ship or learn all about science and local history in the Discovery museum and there’s even an opportunity to visit the life-size T-Rex model at the Great North Museum.
Pubs and bars
Being a Northern city, Newcastle has some of the best pubs available to you. Perfect for pre-drinks or for a pub crawl, the Quayside is situated in front of the scenic river Tyne, and the Gateshead Millennium Bridge.
The Baltic Cafe Bar is attached to the gallery, while Scottish brewers Brewdog offer a selection of some more unusual pints.
If you’re looking for somewhere upmarket, The Botanist is a firm favourite with locals and The Alchemist is sure to be heaving at weekends.
My advice is to start on Grey Street and work your way down.
Clubbing
If it’s a taste of the Geordie Shore nightlife you’re after, head to the Diamond Strip.
Tiger Tiger has no fewer than seven different club rooms (ideal for groups who can’t agree on music!) while Florita’s has been graced by the likes of Rihanna and Lady Gaga, and features a beautiful roof terrace cocktail bar during the summer months.
Where to stay in Newcastle city centre
The best accommodation option for stag or hen dos in Newcastle is renting an apartment. These luxury apartments sleep 4, or you can try these ideally located apartments on Grey Street.
If you’re on a budget, this hostel is a good shout.
Check all of the best apartments in Newcastle for large groups on booking.com.
Share this with your stags and hens, and hit me up for bar recommendations – that’s kinda my thing.