One of the most exciting parts of moving to University, as I’m sure any student will agree, are the nights out. But after moving to a new city, it can be difficult to know where to go. If, like me, you prefer the alternative side of nights out, keep reading to find out my top picks.
One of Newcastle’s biggest clubs, Digi Mondays are famed for their four floors of different music. Head to the second floor for some indie rock and roll, soul, funk and disco, or venture to the fourth room for everything rock and alternative (believe me, it’s worth the trek). This fourth room also doubles as one of my fave gig venues – known as THINK TANK?, so keep an eye out on their page for gig listings.
When: Mondays, 10pm – 3am
Where: Digital, Times Square, NE1 4EP
Price: 80p before 11pm
Newcastle’s biggest and most well known indie night, Rebel Thursdays are your number one spot for everything indie. Make sure to get down early with your name on guest list for the best price!
When: Thursdays, 11pm – 3am
Where: The Cut, 7 St Nicholas’ St, NE1 1RH
Price: £4 before 11:30pm (£5 after with guest list)
Probably one of the most unique bars in town, Gotham Town has its own unusual quirks. Paired with its great student deals on drinks and some banging tunes, Gotham is one of my favourite pre-bars. And to top it all off, it’s always free! What’s not to love?
When: Thursdays, 9pm – 1am
Where: Gotham Town, Neville Street, NE1 5DF
Price: Free
Personally, my favourite night of them all (you can probably tell from the picture – that’s me!); if only it was on more than once a month! Tucked away in the basement of Head of Steam, Stay Gold boasts free entry and top quality pop punk, ska and emo tunes.
When: Last Friday of every month, 11pm – 3am
Where: Head of Steam, 2 Neville St, NE1 5EN
Price: Free
Considered to be Newcastle’s biggest alternative night, Rise plays host to 3 rooms of bangers, meaning there’s something for everyone. With room 1 being, ‘The best alt party in the North East, old classics and new stompers, every one an anthem!’ it’s not to be missed.
When: Saturdays, 10:30pm – 4am
Where: Greys Club, Grey St, NE1 6EE
Price: £3 before 11:30pm (£5 after)
Make sure to keep an eye on Rise or Die Promotions for the one-off nights they organise too!
Hidden just a stone’s throw from Northumberland Street, Trillians Rock Bar serves a wide range of purposes. From casual drinks to regular gigs, as well as an amazing food menu and some very interesting decor, Trillians will sort out all your alternative needs.
When: Various Dates
Where: Trillians Rock Bar, 3 Princess Square, NE1 8ER
Price: Gigs from £8
Conveniently located at the top of the Bigg Market, Filthy’s is a perfect pre-bar, wherever your night ends up. Soak up the unique atmosphere and enjoy live music every night of the week. Plus, make sure to bring your student card to get the best deals!
If you prefer a quieter night, make sure to check out these top teetotal activities.