Bigg Market: Newcastle’s Historic Heart of Commerce and Culture
Historic medieval marketplace turned lively nightlife hub, where Newcastle’s past and vibrant present meet amid iconic listed buildings.
The Bigg Market in Newcastle upon Tyne is a historic marketplace dating back to the Middle Ages, originally known for trading Bigg barley. Today, it is a vibrant area with over 20 bars and restaurants housed in more than 30 listed buildings, blending rich heritage with lively nightlife near Newcastle Cathedral.
A brief summary to Bigg Market
- Newcastle upon Tyne, GB
- Duration: 1 to 3 hours
- Mid ranged
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 5 out of 5
Local tips
- Visit during the evening to experience the lively bar scene but be mindful of busy crowds and occasional disorderly behavior.
- Explore the surrounding historic markets like the Cloth Market and Groat Market to appreciate the full medieval trade district.
- Look out for the architectural details of listed buildings, including Art Nouveau and Baroque styles.
- Attend the Blaydon Races in June, which start from the Bigg Market, to enjoy a local cultural event.
- Check for ongoing regeneration projects that may affect access or offer new attractions in the area.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Trash Bins
- Information Boards
Getting There
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Metro
Take the Tyne and Wear Metro to Central Station, then walk approximately 10 minutes on flat urban terrain to reach the Bigg Market. The Metro runs frequently, with tickets costing around £2-£4 depending on zones.
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Bus
Several local bus routes serve stops near the Bigg Market, including services from Newcastle Coach Station. Travel time varies between 15 to 30 minutes depending on origin. Single fares typically cost £2-£3.50. Buses run regularly throughout the day.
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Taxi
Taxis and ride-hailing services provide direct access to the Bigg Market from anywhere in Newcastle. Typical fares from the city center start at around £5, with travel times of 5 to 15 minutes depending on traffic.
Bigg Market location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Rain / Wet Weather
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Clear Skies
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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about Bigg Market
Medieval Origins and Agricultural Roots
The Bigg Market’s history stretches back to the Middle Ages when it was a bustling marketplace integral to Newcastle’s role on the Great North Road. Named after Bigg barley, a coarse variety widely grown in northern England and Scotland since Neolithic times, the market specialized in selling this grain alongside oats. The market’s name reflects this agricultural heritage, with nearby markets such as the Groat Market (named after oats) and the Cloth Market complementing its commercial activity. The area was central to trade and daily life, serving as a hub where farmers and merchants gathered to sell their produce and goods.Architectural and Civic Significance
The Bigg Market was once home to Newcastle’s old Town Hall, constructed between 1858 and 1863 in a neo-classical style. This building not only housed the city council but also hosted a zoo in the 1960s and Newcastle’s only theatre, making it a focal point of civic and cultural life until its demolition in 1973. The market area is notable for its collection of over 30 listed buildings, many showcasing architectural styles from Art Nouveau to modified Baroque. These historic structures contribute to the market’s distinctive character, although some are currently in states of disrepair, reflecting the challenges of preserving heritage within a modern urban environment.Modern Transformation and Nightlife Culture
From the 1980s onward, the Bigg Market evolved into Newcastle’s renowned nightlife district, known for its lively bars and restaurants. Today, the area hosts more than 20 venues offering late-night entertainment, making it a popular social destination. This transformation has brought vibrancy but also challenges related to disorderly behavior. Despite these issues, the Bigg Market remains a key part of Newcastle’s social fabric, blending historic ambiance with contemporary culture.Heritage Preservation and Regeneration Efforts
Recognizing its cultural and historical value, significant efforts have been made to revitalize the Bigg Market. In 2015, the Newcastle city centre business improvement district secured initial funding from the Heritage Lottery Fund, part of a £2.9 million investment aimed at restoring the area’s historic charm while supporting sustainable commercial activity. These initiatives strive to balance preservation with the needs of a modern urban district, ensuring the Bigg Market continues to thrive as both a heritage site and a vibrant social hub.Unique Features and Local Legends
The Bigg Market’s proximity to landmarks such as Newcastle Cathedral and its location near underground rivers like the Lort Burn add layers of historical intrigue. The market also plays a role in local traditions, being the starting point for the annual Blaydon Races held every June 9th. Its streets and buildings hold stories of Newcastle’s past, from medieval trade to civic developments, making it a place where history and everyday life intersect.Experiencing the Bigg Market Today
Visitors to the Bigg Market can explore a dynamic mix of heritage and nightlife. The area’s historic buildings provide a picturesque backdrop to contemporary bars and eateries, offering a sensory experience rich in both atmosphere and history. The market’s evolution from a medieval grain market to a modern social hotspot exemplifies Newcastle’s ability to adapt and celebrate its past while embracing the present.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
St John the Baptist Church
0.2 km
Medieval sanctuary with eight centuries of history, treasured stained glass, and architectural gems hidden in Newcastle's city centre.
Grey St
0.2 km
Newcastle's finest street—a sweeping curve of neoclassical elegance and cultural heritage.
Iles Tours (Iles Group Ltd)
0.3 km
Explore Newcastle upon Tyne with Iles Tours, where expert guides unveil the city's rich history and culture through unforgettable experiences.
The Black Gate
0.3 km
Medieval fortress gateway where Newcastle's story began, now fully accessible with rich exhibitions.
Blackfriars Medieval Friary
0.3 km
Medieval Dominican friary where kings once stayed, now a living centre of craft, culture, and cuisine.
Newcastle and District War Memorial
0.4 km
A Portland stone tribute to courage, unveiled in 1923 and crowned by a bronze Saint George.
Newcastle city walls
0.4 km
Medieval stone fortifications protecting a border town from Scottish invasion, now a historic monument woven into Newcastle's urban landscape.
Newcastle Keep
0.4 km
Climb 99 steps through four centuries of medieval power and emerge onto rooftop views that define Newcastle.
Durham Tower
0.4 km
Medieval stone sentinel guarding Newcastle's ancient western walls since the 13th century.
Morden Tower
0.4 km
A medieval drum tower turned iconic poetry venue, Morden Tower blends Newcastle’s rich history with vibrant cultural legacy.
Oriental Garden
0.4 km
Experience the serene beauty of the Oriental Garden in Newcastle upon Tyne, a peaceful escape filled with lush greenery and vibrant flora.
Herber Tower
0.4 km
A well-preserved 13th-century drum tower from Newcastle’s medieval town walls, once a guild meeting place and now a quiet monument in the city centre.
Castle Wall Well
0.4 km
A medieval well marking Newcastle's 13th-century defensive walls and urban heritage.
Richard Grainger Memorial Fountain
0.5 km
Historic granite fountain honoring Richard Grainger’s transformative 19th-century urban vision in Newcastle’s iconic Grainger Town.
The Guildhall
0.5 km
Discover Newcastle’s historic Guildhall, a stunning 17th-century civic landmark rich in architecture and medieval heritage.
Unmissable attractions to see
Grainger St
0.1 km
Historic heart of Newcastle with elegant architecture, bustling markets, and vibrant urban culture.
The Stand Comedy Club
0.1 km
Experience Newcastle’s premier comedy venue with sharp wit, lively performances, and a welcoming bar atmosphere at The Stand Comedy Club.
The Glamorous Owl
0.1 km
Discover Newcastle’s artisan jewellery boutique and creative workshop hub nestled in the historic Old George Yard.
High Bridge
0.1 km
Walk Newcastle’s oldest route from the Castle Keep to the River Tyne along High Bridge, a historic street at the heart of the city’s medieval core.
Newcastle City Centre (High Street)
0.2 km
Explore Grainger Street, the historic heart of Newcastle City Centre, where 19th-century neo-classical architecture meets vibrant market life.
Grainger Market
0.2 km
Discover Newcastle’s historic Grainger Market, a vibrant indoor hub of fresh produce, unique shops, and rich Victorian heritage since 1835.
Central Arcade
0.2 km
Discover Newcastle’s Edwardian jewel with stunning tilework, a grand glass roof, and unique independent shops in the historic Central Arcade.
Lit & Phil Library
0.2 km
Discover Newcastle’s historic Lit & Phil Library, a grand neoclassical haven with over 200,000 books and a vibrant cultural scene.
Theatre Royal
0.2 km
A historic Grade I listed theatre in Newcastle’s cultural heart, blending rich heritage with world-class performances and elegant Edwardian design.
Newcastle Cathedral
0.2 km
Discover over 900 years of history, stunning stained glass, and the iconic Lantern Tower at Newcastle Cathedral, a spiritual and cultural beacon in the city center.
The Gate
0.3 km
Newcastle’s vibrant leisure complex blending dining, nightlife, cinema, and gaming under one roof in the city centre.
A Hadrian's Wall Milecastle Plaque
0.3 km
Discover the Roman frontier’s footprint in Newcastle at the Hadrian's Wall Milecastle Plaque on historic Westgate Road.
Eldon Bowling
0.3 km
Eight-lane ten-pin bowling in Newcastle’s Eldon Leisure Centre, perfect for families, friends, and casual fun in the heart of the city.
Grey's Monument
0.3 km
Discover the historic Grey's Monument in Newcastle upon Tyne, a stunning tribute to the Duke of Grey amidst the vibrant city life.
Newcastle upon Tyne - City Centre
0.3 km
Discover Newcastle upon Tyne City Centre: where rich history meets vibrant urban life along the scenic River Tyne.
Essential places to dine
Kafeneon
0.1 km
Experience authentic Greek cuisine and warm Mediterranean hospitality in the vibrant heart of Newcastle’s Bigg Market.
Hibou Blanc
0.1 km
Elegant French-British cuisine and refined hospitality in Newcastle's historic Bigg Market.
Kaltur Wine Bar & Restaurant High Bridge
0.1 km
Experience authentic Spanish tapas and fine wines in a cozy, lively wine bar setting at Newcastle’s historic High Bridge.
Super Natural Newcastle
0.1 km
Discover vibrant vegan dining and creative cocktails in the heart of Newcastle’s historic Grainger Street at Super Natural Newcastle.
Pleased To Meet You
0.2 km
A stylish, late-night bar and restaurant in Newcastle’s city centre, blending rustic charm with vibrant cocktails and seasonal British cuisine.
The Muddler
0.2 km
Stylish Pan-Asian small plates and inventive cocktails in the heart of Newcastle’s vibrant Grey Street.
Barluga
0.2 km
A vibrant gastropub on Newcastle’s historic Grey Street, blending modern British cuisine with a welcoming atmosphere and stylish setting.
Côte Newcastle
0.2 km
Experience refined French cuisine and charming brasserie vibes in Newcastle’s vibrant city centre on historic Grainger Street.
Las Iguanas - Newcastle
0.2 km
Vibrant South American cuisine, legendary bottomless brunch, and killer cocktails in Newcastle's city centre.
Fat Hippo Newcastle
0.2 km
Bold, creative burgers and inclusive menu options in Newcastle’s lively city centre hotspot.
Pani's Cafe
0.2 km
Experience authentic Sardinian and Italian cuisine in the heart of Newcastle at Pani's Cafe, where tradition meets innovation.
Pinocchio Ristorante
0.2 km
Experience authentic Italian flavors with handmade pasta and stone-baked pizzas in a lively, welcoming Newcastle setting.
No28
0.2 km
Discover the vibrant nightlife at No28 in Newcastle – where tapas meets cocktails in an unforgettable bar and nightclub experience.
Miller & Carter Newcastle
0.3 km
Savor expertly aged British steaks in a stylish, welcoming setting at Miller & Carter Newcastle on Mosley Street.
Turtle Bay Newcastle
0.3 km
Experience bold Caribbean flavours, reggae vibes, and 2-for-1 cocktails in the heart of Newcastle’s vibrant city centre.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Living Essential
0.1 km
Grainger Street's go-to for stylish, affordable homewares that make city living cozy and practical in Newcastle's heart.
Earl and Coco
0.1 km
Quirky treasures and artisan delights await in this hidden gem of Newcastle's Grainger Town, where every find tells a story.
Phillips & Wilde
0.1 km
Discover exquisite gift baskets and gourmet hampers in Newcastle's iconic Grainger Market – perfect for festive cheer, corporate gifts, or personal indulgences amid vibrant market buzz.
Garms Newcastle
0.1 km
Small, curated vintage clothing shop on Grainger Street, blending durable classics with street-ready retro finds.
Retro , Vintage Clothing Newcastle.
0.1 km
Discover timeless style and unique vintage finds at Retro Newcastle, your go-to boutique for retro clothing in the heart of the city.
Analog
0.1 km
Curated vintage and second‑hand clothing tucked into Alley 3 of Newcastle’s Grainger Market — small stall, big finds.
Tian's Gifts
0.2 km
Discover unique handcrafted gifts and charming treasures at Tian's Gifts, nestled in Newcastle’s historic Grainger Market.
Soul Rebel (Newcastle)
0.2 km
Discover a unique fusion of stylish apparel and holistic wellness at Soul Rebel, Newcastle's premier destination for fashion and self-care.
The Yesterday Society Vintage Boutique
0.2 km
Discover vintage treasures and retro style at The Yesterday Society, a charming boutique nestled in Newcastle’s historic Grainger Market.
Box it up gifts
0.2 km
Discover unique souvenirs and locally crafted gifts at Box It Up Gifts in Newcastle upon Tyne, a must-visit for every traveler.
Vintagera.co.uk
0.2 km
Discover exquisite handcrafted jewelry, pottery, and bespoke framing in the heart of Newcastle’s vibrant Grainger Market.
Little Bazaar
0.2 km
A cosy, hand-curated gift stall in Grainger Market for crystals, dreamcatchers and small bohemian keepsakes.
Geordie Gifts
0.2 km
Discover authentic Geordie culture through unique gifts in the heart of Newcastle’s historic Grainger Market.
Cath Kidston
0.2 km
Floral fantasies and vintage vibes on Newcastle's Grainger Street—where British charm meets everyday elegance in bags, clothes, and home treasures.
Urban Outfitters
0.2 km
Discover stylish fashion and eclectic homewares at Urban Outfitters Newcastle, a vibrant hub of creativity and contemporary lifestyle on Grainger Street.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
The Mushroom Bar
0.1 km
A compact, budget-friendly club-bar on Grainger Street that keeps late-night DJs, drink deals and a party crowd at its heart.
Slug & Lettuce - Central Newcastle
0.1 km
Newcastle's go-to for endless cocktails, bottomless brunches, and non-stop party vibes on Grainger Street – where every hour is happy hour.
Mother Mercy
0.1 km
Newcastle's speakeasy secret: inventive cocktails via roulette wheel in a historic Cloth Market hideaway, blending mixology mastery with intimate Mediterranean chic.
All Seeing Eye.
0.1 km
Discover Newcastle's speakeasy secret: art deco cocktails behind a hidden door on Groat Market, blending historic intrigue with masterful mixology.
Blackie Boy
0.1 km
Historic Newcastle bar with cosy vibes, free jukebox anthems, cheap drinks deals, and late-night energy in Groat Market's lively heart.
ChachaBuchi
0.2 km
Rustic glamour meets vibrant nightlife in Newcastle’s chic cocktail bar with alpine-inspired cuisine and lively entertainment.
Revolution Newcastle Upon Tyne
0.2 km
Experience vibrant nightlife and handcrafted cocktails in Newcastle’s stunning former bank with soaring ceilings and marble pillars.
All Bar One Newcastle
0.2 km
Stylish Grey Street bar serving coffee by day and cocktails by night, with tapas and wines in Newcastle's buzzing heart.
Duke Of Northumberland (The Clock)
0.2 km
A welcoming Geordie pub in Newcastle city center, offering traditional fare, seasonal ales, and lively weekend music nights in a cozy setting.
Jalou
0.2 km
Experience Newcastle’s chic cocktail haven where Parisian glamour meets hip hop beats and creative mixology.
MOJO
0.2 km
MOJO Newcastle: Rock 'n' roll cocktails, American comfort food, and lively entertainment in The Gate’s vibrant nightlife hub.
The Market Lane
0.3 km
Affectionately the 'Monkey Bar,' this Pilgrim Street pub pours quality pints and fosters lively vibes with sports screens, live music, and classic British charm in Newcastle's heart.
The WonderBar
0.3 km
A lively Newcastle venue combining interactive darts, live music, great food, and sports viewing under one vibrant roof.
Lady Greys
0.3 km
Cozy, classic Newcastle pub with excellent real ales, friendly staff, and a lively late-night atmosphere on Shakespeare Street.
The Alchemist Newcastle
0.3 km
Experience Newcastle’s premier cocktail laboratory with dramatic drinks, creative dining, and a captivating gothic atmosphere in Eldon Square.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Popworld - Newcastle
0.0 km
A neon-soaked pop party on Newcastle’s Bigg Market—cheap drinks, nostalgic anthems and a packed dancefloor for late-night revelry.
Loca Loca | Newcastle
0.1 km
A compact, neon-lit nightclub on Groat Market serving late-night dance, chart and urban sets in an intimate city-centre setting.
TROPICANA NEWCASTLE
0.2 km
Experience Newcastle’s vibrant nightlife at Tropicana, a lively nightclub blending cocktail sophistication with energetic club beats in the city’s heart.
Bohemia Newcastle
0.2 km
Neon-lit cocktail bar and compact club with graffiti murals, a mezzanine dance space and a sheltered courtyard terrace for late-night socialising.
The Social Club
0.2 km
Experience Newcastle’s vibrant nightlife at The Social Club, where music, cocktails, and dancing come alive until the early hours.
Sinners
0.2 km
Dive into sinfully themed nights at this affordable Newcastle nightclub, where red lights, bold art, and cheap drinks fuel the city's unbeatable party spirit.
Flares - Newcastle
0.2 km
Newcastle's ultimate retro disco den: neon grooves, cheesy anthems, and non-stop dancing from 70s to 00s in the heart of the nightlife scene.
Greys Club
0.2 km
Experience Newcastle’s iconic nightlife at Greys Club, where vibrant music, a stylish terrace, and lively crowds create unforgettable late-night memories.
Tup Tup Palace
0.2 km
Experience Newcastle’s vibrant nightlife in style at Tup Tup Palace, a luxurious club blending exotic décor with pulsating beats until the early hours.
TheCUT Newcastle
0.2 km
Discover Newcastle’s vibrant alternative nightclub with themed indie, rock, and disco nights in a cozy, unpretentious setting.
SOHO ROOMS | Newcastle
0.2 km
Four floors of late‑night music and cocktails in the heart of Newcastle’s city‑centre party district, favoured by students and night owls.
Cosmic Ballroom
0.4 km
Newcastle's longest-running underground club: two floors of electronic beats, guest DJs, and non-stop dancing till dawn in an intimate Stowell Street hideaway.
World HQ
0.4 km
A multi‑level warehouse club and arts hub in Curtis Mayfield House with a heavy sound, creative studios above and a grassroots nightlife spirit.
Digital
0.6 km
Experience cutting-edge nightlife with superior sound and vibrant energy at Digital, Newcastle’s premier clubbing destination in Times Square.
Powerhouse
0.6 km
Newcastle’s iconic four-floor nightclub blending rich LGBTQ+ history with vibrant, inclusive nightlife and dynamic music scenes.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Lively
- Fun-filled
- Unique
- Casual
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Art Deco Styles
- Vintage Styles
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Festival / Event Nearby
- Weekend Getaway
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- LGBT Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Pet Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Female Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly
