Everything You Need To Know About… Record Store Day in Newcastle
Take a spin round these record stores this Record Store Day
Whether you’re a seasoned vinyl collector, or just starting out, there’s no better place to celebrate Record Store Day than Newcastle.
The annual celebration returns to Toon on 12th April, seeing music fans flock to Newcastle's record stores to hunt down 2025's exclusive releases. So if you're wondering how to get involved, keep on reading!
What is Record Store Day?
Since its inauguration in 2007, Record Store Day has seen music fans, artists and independent stores come together to celebrate the humble turntable. Because while we all love to see our Spotify Wrapped at the end of the year, nothing quite beats an old-school record.
Where is it happening?
RSD 2025 is happening in almost 300 stores across the UK this year, making it one of the biggest global events on the music calendar. And lucky for us, some of the latest and greatest are right here in Newcastle, so keep on reading to find out more about those taking part!
A Woman Looking at Vinyl Records, Photo by cottonbro studio / Free to use under the Pexels License
When is it happening?
Record Store Day lands on Saturday 12th April this year - you’ll want to check the opening times of each store in advance, and we recommend queuing early if you want to get your hands on those limited releases.
Who’s it for?
Record Store Day is for anyone and everyone, whether you’re hunting after those special releases made exclusively for the occasion, or just want to soak up the atmosphere.
Which stores are taking part?
We’re glad you asked! Here’s the low–down of all the essential stops to make your RSD trip around the toon a breeze.
Nun Street staple Reflex Records is the first place you’ll want to head to for those must-have albums. This vibrant store in the heart of the city centre is “passionate about all types of music” and “makes no judgement on whatever your tastes are”, so it’s ideal for grabbing those more underground releases.
Then, why not head down towards Central Station and pay Vinyl Guru a visit? Proudly independent since 1996, the store won’t just be stocking some of this year’s most-wanted RSD releases, but is also home to thousands - and we mean thousands - of new and pre-owned records. So even if your wish-list isn’t fulfilled here, we’re almost certain you won’t go home empty handed.
Handily nearby, you’ll also find Beatdown Records. Opening back in 2006, this indie store is nestled away by the bustling Central Station, and stocks pretty much every genre imaginable. Perfect for stepping outside your musical comfort zone!
Last, but by no means least on our quick-fire tour for RSD 2025, is RPM Music. This hidden gem has been spinning tracks for thirty-six years in Newcastle, so you can rest assured that they know what they’re doing when it comes to the big day.
Anything else I should know?
Our biggest advice? Don’t go into Record Store Day blind! With a lengthy list of titles on offer, it’s worth checking out the official RSD list before hitting the shops.
If there’s something you really want to get your hands on, then it’s definitely worth getting there early. In fact, why not check out our round-up of the best brunch spots in NE1 for a worthy reward once you’ve beat the queues? Good luck out there vinyl lovers!
Main image: Set of retro vinyl records on table, Photo by Matthias Groeneveld, Free to use under the Pexels License
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