Hops & History: 10 of Newcastle’s Most Historic Pubs

The Old George Inn, Old George Yard

Dating back to 1582, The Old George Inn (pictured above) is Newcastle’s oldest pub and oozes historical character throughout, from its cosy nooks and crannies to its charming courtyard. It’s so old, in fact, that King Charles I was said to have been a regular while locked up in a nearby open prison. Legend has it that King Charles I, who was eventually beheaded, haunts the pub to this day… although that could be the beer talking.

The Centurion, Neville Street

Central Station haunt The Centurion wasn’t always a pub. Built in 1893, it originally served as a luxurious lounge for first-class train passengers and later – in the 1960s – fell into neglect when it was used as prison cells by the British Transport Police. Thankfully, it was restored to its former glory at the turn of the millennium, including its exquisite original tiling which are said to be worth in excess of £3 million today. Stop by, grab a drink, marvel at its ornate walls and ceiling and find out exactly why The Telegraph called it “one of Britain’s finest bars.”

Crown Posada, Side

Snug and narrow, you’d be hard pushed to find a cosier pub that Victorian-era watering hole the Crown Posada. Located in a three-storey building close to Newcastle’s Quayside, the pub was built in 1880 and retains many original features including its gorgeous stained-glass windows. Adding to the historical vibes, music comes from an old turntable record player from 1941 – feel free to bring your own vinyl LPs in to play.

The Bodega, Westgate Road

Westgate Road boozer The Bodega has something of a colourful history. Formerly known as The Black Bull, the pub got its first mention in 1822 but was completely rebuilt in 1872 and again in 1901 when the construction of the now-closed Pavilion Theatre caused it to collapse. Research carried out by local archaeologist firm AAG Archaeology, however, found that there was a pub on or very near the site where The Bodega resides today as far back as 1441 – which would certainly give The Old George Inn a run for its money when claiming to be Newcastle’s oldest pub!

The Bridge Hotel, Castle Garth

You won’t find much more of a traditional boozer in Newcastle than The Bridge Hotel. Built in 1899 for Sir John Fitgerald, an Irish-born brewer and former Lord Mayor of Newcastle, this pub has it all – cosy snugs, stained glass windows, a huge wooden bar and lots of real ale on tap. Grab a seat on its outdoor terrace and take in awe-inspiring views of Newcastle’s Quayside and historic ruins while sipping on a pint or two.

Swarley’s, Groat Market

The site where Groat Market pub Swarley’s now resides has been a watering hole since the late 1890s. Formerly known as The Blackie Boy – a nod to the blacksmiths that worked in the area long ago – the pub changed its name to Swarley’s in 2021 to avoid any misconstrued offence but still boasts old-world vibes and a befitting connection to its past, its new moniker being a homage to Richard Swarley, a former owner of the pub who famously held a debating club on the premises in the 18^th century.

The Beehive, High Bridge

Just a hop, skip and a jump away from Swarley’s you’ll find The Beehive – a cosy little public house built in 1902 and located in a Grade II-listed building on the corner of High Bridge and Cloth Market. The pub attracts a varied crowd – especially on Newcastle United match days – and its glorious exterior, clad with ornate green tiling, is a sight to behold.

The Duke of Northumberland, Clayton Street

Don’t let the modern interior of The Duke of Northumberland fool you – this Clayton Street pub has been pouring pints for the people of Newcastle since 1832. Colloquially known as “The Clock” – for the large clock face that once hung from its exterior – The Duke of Northumberland prides itself on being a “working class pub” and boasts one of the best jukeboxes in the Toon.

City Tavern, Northumberland Street

The building where Northumberland Street haunt City Tavern resides appeared back in 1872 and originally served as a livery stable. Over the years, it’s acted as office accommodation, a garage and a dairy and gained its iconic mock Tudor façade in 1923. It was known as the City Tavern from the early 1970s and underwent various name changes in the intervening years before new management returned it to its former name and glory in 2014. Nowadays, it boasts more real ale and gin than you can shake a stick at and unique spaces including an outdoor cinema named Cinema Paradiso and what’s thought to be the smallest bar in the world, Rupert’s Sneaky Den. The best part? It’s super dog-friendly so feel free to take your pup along for a pint or two.

Blackfriars’ Parlour Bar, Friars Street

Technically not a pub, per se, the Parlour Bar at Blackfriars Restaurant nevertheless deserves a shout out. Located in a Dominican friary dating back to 1239, Blackfriars is a crowning jewel in Newcastle’s rich history and its Parlour Bar is where its Dominican monks once used to welcome guests. It’s also a great place to sip a beer or two from Blackfriars’ onsite brewing emporium St. Dominic’s Brewery.

We all know that Newcastle has a rich history and that extends to its pubs too. So, whether you’re a history buff or an ale enthusiast – or maybe a little bit of both – make sure to check out the Toon’s most historic pubs on your next trip into the city!

Main image: The Old George Inn

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