Escape Key Newcastle
Newcastle's premier escape room destination with immersive themes, creative puzzles, and exceptional service overlooking historic grounds.
Escape Key Newcastle is a premier escape room venue located on St Andrew's Street, overlooking the historic graveyard of St Andrews Church. The venue features multiple immersive themed rooms with creative puzzles, atmospheric design, and engaging game masters. Known for excellent service and innovative gameplay, it offers experiences ranging from historical mysteries to apocalyptic scenarios, making it a top-rated destination for team-building, celebrations, and entertainment in Newcastle.
A brief summary to Escape Key Newcastle
- 60-62 St Andrew's St, Newcastle upon Tyne, NE1 5SF, GB
- +447922286476
- Visit website
- Duration: 1 to 1.5 hours
- Mid ranged
-
Indoor
- Mobile reception: 5 out of 5
- Monday 3 pm-8 pm
- Tuesday 3 pm-8 pm
- Wednesday 9 am-10 pm
- Thursday 9 am-10 pm
- Friday 9 am-10 pm
- Saturday 9 am-10 pm
- Sunday 9 am-10 pm
Local tips
- Arrive 10–15 minutes early to allow time for the briefing video and to acclimate to the room's atmosphere before the timer starts.
- Use the 360-degree Google Maps view of rooms beforehand to familiarise yourself with the space and identify potential puzzle locations.
- Divide team responsibilities early—assign individuals to different areas to solve puzzles in parallel, as most rooms are designed for non-linear solving.
- Pay close attention to small details and décor elements, as clues are often embedded within the thematic design rather than obvious puzzle mechanics.
- Don't hesitate to ask the game master for guidance if genuinely stuck; they are trained to provide helpful nudges without spoiling the solution.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
Getting There
-
By Train and Walk
From Newcastle Central Station, the venue is a 10–15 minute walk. Exit the station and head towards the city centre, navigating through the surrounding streets past local coffee shops. The walk is straightforward and passes through accessible urban terrain. No parking concerns with this option, and trains run frequently throughout the day from across the North East and beyond. Train fares vary depending on origin; typical regional journeys cost between £5–£25 return.
-
By Car and Street Parking
St Andrew's Street is located in Newcastle's city centre. Street parking is available but can be competitive during peak hours (11 AM–3 PM weekdays). On-street parking typically costs £1.50–£2.50 per hour, with a maximum stay of 2–4 hours depending on zone. Alternatively, several multi-storey car parks operate within 5 minutes' walk, charging approximately £2–£3.50 per hour. Evening and weekend rates are generally lower. Allow 20–30 minutes to find parking during busy periods.
-
By Local Bus
Multiple bus routes serve the city centre near St Andrew's Street. Journey times from Newcastle Central Station area are typically 5–10 minutes depending on the route. Bus fares are approximately £1.50–£2.00 for a single journey within the city centre. Buses run frequently throughout the day, with reduced service on Sundays and evenings. This is an economical and reliable option for visitors already in the city centre.
-
By Taxi or Ride-Share
Taxis and ride-share services are readily available throughout Newcastle. Journey times from Newcastle Central Station are approximately 5–10 minutes depending on traffic. Typical fares range from £6–£12 from the station to the venue. This option is convenient for groups or those with luggage, though prices increase during peak hours (lunch and evening rush periods).
Escape Key Newcastle location weather suitability
-
Any Weather
Discover more about Escape Key Newcastle
A Historic Setting with Modern Entertainment
Escape Key Newcastle occupies a distinctive location on St Andrew's Street, directly overlooking the ancient graveyard of St Andrews Church. This atmospheric setting provides an evocative backdrop for the venue's immersive escape room experiences. The proximity to this historic cemetery has been thoughtfully integrated into the design philosophy, with some rooms drawing inspiration from the location's rich past. The venue sits within easy reach of Newcastle's city centre, positioned just a 10–15 minute walk from Newcastle Central Station, making it accessible to both locals and visitors exploring the region.Diverse Themed Escape Rooms
The venue operates multiple escape rooms, each with distinct themes and narratives. The Plague room stands out as a particularly atmospheric experience, set within a plague doctor's house with period-appropriate décor including a jail cell and locked doors. The room's design cleverly references the actual plague pit located just outside the window, creating an immersive historical connection. Other rooms include First Contact, with solid thematic elements and attention to detail; the 221B Baker Street room, which challenges players to observe and solve intricate puzzles; Prison Break, featuring character-driven gameplay; and Armageddon, described as a room that gradually unfolds from initial difficulty into satisfying progression. Each room employs a mix of traditional locks, manual puzzles, and lateral thinking challenges, with non-linear design allowing teams to divide and conquer objectives.Puzzle Design and Gameplay Experience
The escape rooms feature thoughtfully constructed puzzles that balance accessibility with intellectual engagement. Rather than relying solely on standard padlocks, the rooms incorporate creative, outside-the-box thinking challenges alongside manual and observational puzzles. The difficulty levels vary by room, with some offering medium-level challenges suitable for mixed-experience teams, while others provide more demanding scenarios for seasoned players. The dimly lit atmospheres enhance immersion, though they require careful attention to detail when solving puzzles. Most rooms are designed to be solved by smaller teams working in parallel, with individual puzzles and collaborative elements distributed throughout.Service Excellence and Game Master Engagement
The venue is recognised for consistently high-quality service delivery. Game masters including Luna, Von, Bertie, Yara, Isabelle, Brian, and Ceryl have been specifically commended for their welcoming, encouraging, and character-driven approaches. Staff members provide subtle guidance when teams require nudges in the right direction, balancing assistance with the challenge of independent problem-solving. The game masters' ability to remain engaged and supportive throughout sessions contributes significantly to the overall experience, whether players are celebrating special occasions or experiencing escape rooms for the first time.Immersive Atmosphere and Design
The venue prioritises atmospheric design to enhance player immersion. Rooms feature period-appropriate décor, thematic consistency, and sensory elements such as incense in historically themed spaces. The Plague room, for example, incorporates subtle jump scares that enhance eeriness without overwhelming players seeking a primarily puzzle-focused experience. The 360-degree Google Maps view available for some rooms allows players to study details before or after their experience, adding an interactive dimension to the venue's engagement strategy. The overall aesthetic balances theatrical presentation with functional puzzle integration, creating environments where narrative and gameplay reinforce one another.Accessibility and Visitor Logistics
The venue operates extended hours across most days, with Sunday through Saturday availability from 9 AM to 10 PM, and Monday–Tuesday operating from 3 PM to 8 PM. This scheduling accommodates various visitor needs, from morning celebrations to evening entertainment. The location's proximity to Newcastle Central Station and surrounding coffee shops makes it convenient for day trips and group outings. The venue's reputation as Newcastle's leading escape room destination has been built through consistent delivery of quality experiences, making it a natural choice for birthday celebrations, team-building activities, and entertainment-focused visits.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Morden Tower
0.1 km
A medieval drum tower turned iconic poetry venue, Morden Tower blends Newcastle’s rich history with vibrant cultural legacy.
Blackfriars Medieval Friary
0.2 km
Medieval Dominican friary where kings once stayed, now a living centre of craft, culture, and cuisine.
Oriental Garden
0.2 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
0.2 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.
Newcastle and District War Memorial
0.3 km
A Portland stone tribute to courage, unveiled in 1923 and crowned by a bronze Saint George.
Durham Tower
0.3 km
Medieval stone sentinel guarding Newcastle's ancient western walls since the 13th century.
Iles Tours (Iles Group Ltd)
0.4 km
Explore Newcastle upon Tyne with Iles Tours, where expert guides unveil the city's rich history and culture through unforgettable experiences.
St John the Baptist Church
0.4 km
Medieval sanctuary with eight centuries of history, treasured stained glass, and architectural gems hidden in Newcastle's city centre.
Grey St
0.4 km
Newcastle's finest street—a sweeping curve of neoclassical elegance and cultural 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.
New Bridge Street, Newcastle-upon-Tyne
0.6 km
Experience the vibrant culture and rich history of New Bridge Street, Newcastle-upon-Tyne, home to captivating museums and lively local attractions.
11 Waterloo St
0.6 km
Historic industrial heritage meets contemporary urban design on Newcastle's transforming Waterloo Street.
King's Gate
0.7 km
Newcastle University's contemporary student services hub with striking glazed architecture on Barras Bridge.
The Black Gate
0.7 km
Medieval fortress gateway where Newcastle's story began, now fully accessible with rich exhibitions.
1914 Monument
0.7 km
A stirring World War I memorial in Newcastle honoring local Fusiliers with evocative bronze sculpture and historic military symbolism.
Unmissable attractions to see
Escape Key Newcastle
0.0 km
Newcastle's premier escape room destination with immersive themes, creative puzzles, and exceptional service overlooking historic grounds.
St Andrew's Church, Newcastle upon Tyne
0.1 km
Discover Newcastle’s oldest church with medieval Norman arches, historic burials, and echoes of a turbulent past in the heart of the city.
Ever Tower
0.1 km
Explore Ever Tower, a captivating medieval relic of Newcastle’s historic town walls, blending heritage and urban charm.
YuMe World
0.1 km
Step into a high-energy arcade world in Newcastle’s city centre, where cutting-edge games, VR thrills and prize challenges await players of all ages.
The Gate
0.1 km
Newcastle’s vibrant leisure complex blending dining, nightlife, cinema, and gaming under one roof in the city centre.
The Strawberry
0.2 km
A vibrant traditional pub by St James' Park, offering great beers, hearty food, and a warm Newcastle welcome.
Black Friars Postern Gate Plaque
0.2 km
Explore the Black Friars Postern Gate Plaque in Newcastle upon Tyne, a historical landmark reflecting the city's rich medieval heritage and architectural beauty.
Eldon Bowling
0.2 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.
Old Eldon Square
0.2 km
Newcastle’s premier indoor shopping centre blending rich heritage with modern retail and vibrant dining under one roof.
Grainger Market
0.3 km
Discover Newcastle’s historic Grainger Market, a vibrant indoor hub of fresh produce, unique shops, and rich Victorian heritage since 1835.
W Walls
0.3 km
Explore the enduring medieval West Walls of Newcastle, a stone fortress section that reveals the city’s historic defenses and rich heritage.
Newcastle City Centre (High Street)
0.3 km
Explore Grainger Street, the historic heart of Newcastle City Centre, where 19th-century neo-classical architecture meets vibrant market life.
Eldon Square
0.3 km
Newcastle’s bustling city-centre shopping and dining hub with over 140 stores and 30+ eateries, welcoming all with style and inclusivity.
Grainger St
0.3 km
Historic heart of Newcastle with elegant architecture, bustling markets, and vibrant urban culture.
Central Arcade
0.4 km
Discover Newcastle’s Edwardian jewel with stunning tilework, a grand glass roof, and unique independent shops in the historic Central Arcade.
Essential places to dine
Zaap Thai Street Food Newcastle
0.1 km
Experience the vibrant flavors and lively atmosphere of Thai street food right in the heart of Newcastle’s city center.
Turtle Bay Newcastle
0.1 km
Experience bold Caribbean flavours, reggae vibes, and 2-for-1 cocktails in the heart of Newcastle’s vibrant city centre.
El Coto
0.2 km
Experience authentic Spanish tapas and warm rustic charm in the heart of Newcastle at El Coto.
Blackfriars Restaurant
0.2 km
Dine in a 13th-century friary refectory with modern British food, local brews, and a warm, bustling atmosphere in the heart of Newcastle.
George's Fish Shack, Newcastle
0.2 km
Authentic British fish and chips in the heart of Newcastle’s lively Eldon Square shopping district.
No28
0.3 km
Discover the vibrant nightlife at No28 in Newcastle – where tapas meets cocktails in an unforgettable bar and nightclub experience.
Red Mezze
0.3 km
A lively Turkish mezze restaurant in Newcastle, perfect for sharing bold flavours, grilled dishes, and a relaxed meal with friends or family.
Fujiyama Teppanyaki Japanese Restaurant
0.3 km
Experience fresh Japanese teppanyaki cooked live with flair and flavor in the heart of Newcastle upon Tyne.
Chaophraya
0.3 km
Elegant Thai dining with rooftop views over Grey’s Monument, perfect for special occasions and vibrant city experiences.
Côte Newcastle
0.3 km
Experience refined French cuisine and charming brasserie vibes in Newcastle’s vibrant city centre on historic Grainger Street.
The Botanist Newcastle
0.4 km
Discover The Botanist Newcastle: a lush botanical bar and restaurant blending inventive cocktails, seasonal food, and live music in a secret garden setting.
Super Natural Newcastle
0.4 km
Discover vibrant vegan dining and creative cocktails in the heart of Newcastle’s historic Grainger Street at Super Natural Newcastle.
Pinocchio Ristorante
0.4 km
Experience authentic Italian flavors with handmade pasta and stone-baked pizzas in a lively, welcoming Newcastle setting.
Kafeneon
0.4 km
Experience authentic Greek cuisine and warm Mediterranean hospitality in the vibrant heart of Newcastle’s Bigg Market.
Hibou Blanc
0.4 km
Elegant French-British cuisine and refined hospitality in Newcastle's historic Bigg Market.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Be More Geek
0.2 km
Explore a treasure trove of pop culture collectibles and geek merchandise in the heart of Newcastle’s Eldon Square shopping centre.
Tian's Gifts
0.2 km
Discover unique handcrafted gifts and charming treasures at Tian's Gifts, nestled in Newcastle’s historic Grainger Market.
Geordie Gifts
0.3 km
Discover authentic Geordie culture through unique gifts in the heart of Newcastle’s historic Grainger Market.
Vintagera.co.uk
0.3 km
Discover exquisite handcrafted jewelry, pottery, and bespoke framing in the heart of Newcastle’s vibrant Grainger Market.
Little Bazaar
0.3 km
A cosy, hand-curated gift stall in Grainger Market for crystals, dreamcatchers and small bohemian keepsakes.
Analog
0.3 km
Curated vintage and second‑hand clothing tucked into Alley 3 of Newcastle’s Grainger Market — small stall, big finds.
Box it up gifts
0.3 km
Discover unique souvenirs and locally crafted gifts at Box It Up Gifts in Newcastle upon Tyne, a must-visit for every traveler.
Menkind
0.3 km
Discover quirky gifts and gadgets for men at Menkind, nestled in Newcastle’s iconic Eldon Square shopping centre.
Eldon Garden Shopping Centre.
0.3 km
Discover the bustling Eldon Garden Shopping Centre in Newcastle upon Tyne, where shopping, dining, and entertainment come together in a vibrant atmosphere.
Coast
0.3 km
Contemporary feminine fashion and occasion wear in Newcastle's vibrant city centre shopping district.
Phillips & Wilde
0.3 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.
The Yesterday Society Vintage Boutique
0.3 km
Discover vintage treasures and retro style at The Yesterday Society, a charming boutique nestled in Newcastle’s historic Grainger Market.
Friday Vintage
0.3 km
Award-winning vintage boutique celebrating curated fashion from the 1940s to 2000s in historic Old Eldon Square.
Garms Newcastle
0.3 km
Small, curated vintage clothing shop on Grainger Street, blending durable classics with street-ready retro finds.
Soul Rebel (Newcastle)
0.3 km
Discover a unique fusion of stylish apparel and holistic wellness at Soul Rebel, Newcastle's premier destination for fashion and self-care.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Bealim House
0.1 km
Newcastle’s unique gin distillery, bar, and eatery blending industrial heritage with vibrant social dining and exceptional gin experiences.
The WonderBar
0.1 km
A lively Newcastle venue combining interactive darts, live music, great food, and sports viewing under one vibrant roof.
MOJO
0.1 km
MOJO Newcastle: Rock 'n' roll cocktails, American comfort food, and lively entertainment in The Gate’s vibrant nightlife hub.
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.
Bar Loco
0.2 km
A vibrant split-level bar in Newcastle with live music, quirky vibes, and a welcoming atmosphere for casual drinks and social nights.
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.
The Wobbly Duck
0.3 km
A cozy, quirky micropub in Newcastle’s Old Eldon Square, famed for its eclectic ales and welcoming atmosphere.
The Mushroom Bar
0.3 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
0.4 km
Newcastle's go-to for endless cocktails, bottomless brunches, and non-stop party vibes on Grainger Street – where every hour is happy hour.
The Mad House
0.4 km
Dive into Newcastle’s quirkiest cocktail bar where mad creativity meets bold flavors and unforgettable fun at The Mad House.
Mean-Eyed Cat
0.4 km
A vibrant micropub in Newcastle offering an evolving selection of craft beers, ciders, and lively community events in a quirky, intimate setting.
The Exchange
0.5 km
Discover The Exchange, Newcastle’s speakeasy-style cocktail bar with a cozy alcove, lively atmosphere, and expertly crafted drinks in the city center.
Mother Mercy
0.5 km
Newcastle's speakeasy secret: inventive cocktails via roulette wheel in a historic Cloth Market hideaway, blending mixology mastery with intimate Mediterranean chic.
All Bar One Newcastle
0.5 km
Stylish Grey Street bar serving coffee by day and cocktails by night, with tapas and wines in Newcastle's buzzing heart.
Lady Greys
0.5 km
Cozy, classic Newcastle pub with excellent real ales, friendly staff, and a lively late-night atmosphere on Shakespeare Street.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Cosmic Ballroom
0.1 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.
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.
Popworld - Newcastle
0.4 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
0.5 km
A compact, neon-lit nightclub on Groat Market serving late-night dance, chart and urban sets in an intimate city-centre setting.
The Social Club
0.5 km
Experience Newcastle’s vibrant nightlife at The Social Club, where music, cocktails, and dancing come alive until the early hours.
Bohemia Newcastle
0.5 km
Neon-lit cocktail bar and compact club with graffiti murals, a mezzanine dance space and a sheltered courtyard terrace for late-night socialising.
TROPICANA NEWCASTLE
0.5 km
Experience Newcastle’s vibrant nightlife at Tropicana, a lively nightclub blending cocktail sophistication with energetic club beats in the city’s heart.
Greys Club
0.5 km
Experience Newcastle’s iconic nightlife at Greys Club, where vibrant music, a stylish terrace, and lively crowds create unforgettable late-night memories.
Flares - Newcastle
0.6 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.
SOHO ROOMS | Newcastle
0.6 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.
Tup Tup Palace
0.6 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
0.6 km
Discover Newcastle’s vibrant alternative nightclub with themed indie, rock, and disco nights in a cozy, unpretentious setting.
Powerhouse
0.6 km
Newcastle’s iconic four-floor nightclub blending rich LGBTQ+ history with vibrant, inclusive nightlife and dynamic music scenes.
Digital
0.7 km
Experience cutting-edge nightlife with superior sound and vibrant energy at Digital, Newcastle’s premier clubbing destination in Times Square.
World HQ
0.7 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.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Adventurous
- Entertaining
- Unique
- Quirky
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Vintage Styles
- Rustic Designs
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Heritage Neighborhoods
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Aesthetic Corners
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Myth & Legends
- Day Trip
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Business Friendly
