A Local’s Guide to the Best Irish Bars in Newcastle
On the hunt for great Guinness and good craic in the Toon?
Wherever you go in the world, you’re bound to find an Irish bar and Newcastle city centre is no different.
The Toon is home to several excellent Irish pubs, perfect for when all you need is a perfectly poured pint of Guinness… and some great craic too, of course!
Katie O'Brien's Irish Tavern, Collingwood Street
Great craic is always on the cards with a visit to Katie O'Brien's (pictured above). Part of a chain that extends to Durham, Yorkshire and the Midlands, the Collingwood Street branch opened its doors in 2023 and quickly became a firm favourite thanks to its Temple Bar vibes, traditional surroundings and regular live music and sport.
Tyneside Irish Centre, Gallowgate
Tyneside Irish Centre is a lively community hub in the heart of Newcastle celebrating Irish culture through a packed programme of events. Naturally, it’s home to its own bar where you can sip on a pint of Guinness or two while watching live Irish sport and catching live acts playing traditional Irish music.
The Canny Lad, Newgate Street
Boasting a lively atmosphere and plenty of daily drink deals, The Canny Lad is an Irish tavern that’s perfect for after-work pints or catch-ups with pals. Sip on a pint of Guinness or a spirit from its well-stocked bar while enjoying live sports on multiple screens, plus darts and pool upstairs.
The Points, Bigg Market
Nestled in a basement space below the Bigg Market, The Points is a New York-inspired Irish bar that’s open every Friday and Saturday. The pub plays host to a wealth of musicians playing famous Irish music and once a few pints of Guinness and Irish whiskeys kick in, you’ll be up and dancing like Michael Flatley in no time.
Rosie’s Bar, Stowell Street
Opened by Ballyogan, Ireland native Rosie O’Shea and her beau Mr Alexander back in the late 1800s, this bar’s namesake has a tragic history. After Mr Alexander was murdered, Rosie fell into a deep depression and eventually disappeared to New York, never to be seen in Newcastle again. Her legacy lives on at Rosie’s Bar today, however – now a welcoming and popular spot for those with and without Irish heritage to enjoy an extensive drinks menu and a warm welcome (it’s also perfect for a pre-match pint too!).
The Dubliner, Close
Bringing a taste of Temple Bar to the heart of the Quayside, The Dubliner opened its doors in 2023 where the iconic nightclub Julie's once stood. With live music seven days a week and perfectly poured pints of Guinness on tap, good vibes and great craic are guaranteed at this vibey joint whenever you visit.
Cup & Craic Irish Tavern, Collingwood Street
A new addition to Newcastle’s Irish pub community, Cup & Craic opened its doors in late 2025 and promises good banter, great company and – of course – plenty of Guinness on tap. There’s live music every Saturday too!
So, next time you’re out in Newcastle why not hit up one of its welcoming Irish bars – where great Guinness and good craic are guaranteed!
Main image: Katie O'Brien's
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