Matchday in Newcastle is always a big deal with the stadium perched in the heart of the city. The Black & White Army are the best fans imaginable, so whether you’ve been lucky enough to get tickets for the big game or want to celebrate with friends in the city centre, here’s our list of venues that offer Premier League-worthy supporter vibes and an unforgettable matchday experience in Newcastle.
Pre-Match Venues
Rosie’s Bar, Stowell Street
Located right next to the stadium, this bar is the perfect place to get that pre-match adrenaline rush and Rosie’s has also had a complete makeover! They’ve kept the traditional décor and given the ground floor a newer, more open-plan feel. That means the space is even better on matchdays as they always keep Newcastle’s sporting events very much on their agenda, with all areas having a great view of their large screens so you’ll never miss the discussion and build-up on game day.
Shearer’s Bar, St James’ Park
Named after the Newcastle playing legend and all-time top scorer Alan Shearer, the bar doubles as a favoured matchday destination for both home and away fans at the heart of the city, located at the Gallowgate end of St James' Park. You can enjoy the unrivalled matchday atmosphere as kick-off draws closer, right in the shadow of the iconic stadium.
Strawberry Pub, Strawberry Place
One of the oldest and most loved pubs in Newcastle also serves as the perfect pre-match venue for Newcastle football fans. It’s in a great city centre location and has bags of traditions going back almost a century. It’s also guaranteed to be full of home supporters on matchday celebrating and anticipating in a variety of ways - they also serve a pretty decent pint, of course we had to do our research!
Hard Rock Café, Quayside
Located in the historic Guildhall on Newcastle's Quayside, the Hard Rock Café brings a touch of history and class where you can enjoy the build-up to the starting whistle. It also features a packed menu of classic American fare with that signature Hard Rock twist, and delivers satisfaction in every bite to the many Newcastle supporters pre-gaming the match - not to mention some great local brews too! Be sure to check out their pre-game offers, perfect for foodie and footie fans!
Bar Loco, Leazes Park Road
Conveniently located on Leazes Park Road, Bar Loco is just a stone's throw away from the hallowed grounds of St James' Park. It's a laidback cafe-bar that boasts good vibes and an eclectic crowd, while its menu of delicious pizzas, wraps and sides makes it ideal for some pre-match eats before watching the Magpies play. Why not have a craft beer or two while you're there?
The Mile Castle, Westgate Road
Based on a site that’s ripe for local history and important to the key figures in the city’s growth and stature over the centuries, the building that The Mile Castle calls home was also formerly Newcastle’s Savings Bank. History is still something the crowds of fans hope to create, as the Black & White Army discuss the team sheet, analyse the game and celebrate the recent string of wins. Stacked over three floors, it’s perfect for joining in passionate, jovial debate and making new friends.
Aspers, The Gate
There’s always a fantastic relaxed atmosphere in Aspers Casino. You can also enjoy a tasty beer, a delicious burger and a bit of a wager too if you’re feeling confident. The venue is popular with fans heading to the match, wanting to enjoy the game on the big screen, or just seeking to mingle with fellow supporters.
Venues to Watch the Match
Shark Club, Gallowgate
If you’re watching the match itself, then Shark Club is a dedicated sports bar with fans’ comfort in mind. Get vocal and high-five strangers while the all-star staff bring the best atmosphere outside the actual stadium. They’re driven by sporting passion and focus on supporters and the intensity of the game. A perfect balance of pub classics and signature Shark Club quality.
The WonderBar, The Gate
Experience the highs, lows and everything in between on the stunning HD TVs situated across the bar, situated near the stadium, in The Gate complex. The WonderBar always showcases the biggest Newcastle matchdays in the footballing calendar so you can cheer the team on whilst you make the most of their fully stocked bar, delicious bar snacks and sharing platters. It's not only ideal for groups of mates crossing their fingers and toes as they watch the box-to-box action, there's also plenty of fun to be had with pre and post-game shows from DJ Mad Mick during all NUFC home matches.
Old George Inn, Old George Yard
If you’re looking for a great pub to watch matchday football, then there’s nowhere better for watching live sport than the Old George Inn, where you’ll find an exhilarating football atmosphere, refreshing beer on tap and great offers on a wide selection of food and drink! How high can the mighty Mags climb the table? With the unwavering support from football fans at the Old George the sky is the limit!
The Trent House, Leazes Lane
This pint-sized boozer on Leazes Lane dates back to 1861 and has been a matchday favourite for football fans for decades. It's cosy, welcoming and attracts a great football crowd thanks to TVs showing all telelvised Sky and BT games. Cheering on the lads is thirsty work, so treat yourself to a traditional ale or adventurous craft beer while you catch the match.
Landmark Oriental, Stowell Street
Known more for celebrations and events, you can also get a more refined match day experience at this Chinatown location. It’s ideal if you’re heading out to view the Newcastle game with friends or business colleagues and still want to follow the theatre playing out on the pitch. Booking is essential to ensure you don’t miss out on fabulous food and drink while still supporting your local team, and post-game the venue becomes a hive of activity with fans descending to dissect the match with a drink or some food.
The Newcastle Arms, St Andrews Street
This single-room pub is situated next to St James’ Park and Chinatown and known locally as the Top Arms - and it's incredibly busy on matchdays. Steeped in Newcastle's history, The Newcastle Arms is known internationally for its real ale and great CAMRA ratings. This is football supporting done the traditional way.
The Beehive, High Bridge
Another historic venue bursting with supporters on matchday is The Beehive on High Bridge. As well as being an ideal meeting place for day and season ticket holders on the way to the stands, it’s perfect for the pub fans. There's a great selection of beers and hot and cold sandwiches on offer but it’s the banter that really draws you in, with regulars and matchday attendees mixing to show their passion for the Newcastle team.
The Goose, Eldon Gardens
There’s nothing quite like watching football with a crowd of fellow fans, and the atmosphere at The Goose is electric as everyone comes together to watch the local Premier League matches. Alongside the live matches, you’ll always find lots of football banter with friends over stone-baked pizzas, tasty burgers, chips and beers.
The Ultimate Experience
St James’ Park, Strawberry Place
Of course, there is absolutely no substitute for watching matchday from the comfort of the stands or the hospitality boxes inside the legendary stadium! If you’re lucky enough to have tickets for Newcastle games, you’ll know how passionate and electric the experience is seeing the players weave their magic and skill on the pitch. The Toon Army are always United as one behind the team, giving them an added 12th player on the pitch every match, and there’s nothing quite like being part of it!
Howay the lads!
