Billy Bootleggers: Newcastle’s Vibrant Live Music Bar Beneath Byker Bridge
Experience Newcastle’s vibrant live music scene and welcoming dive bar charm at Billy Bootleggers beneath Byker Bridge.
Billy Bootleggers is a lively live music bar located under Byker Bridge in Newcastle upon Tyne, offering free bands, daily happy hours, and a welcoming atmosphere with an outdoor heated area. Known for its vibrant nightlife, it blends a dive bar vibe with quality live entertainment and a moderate price range, making it a popular spot for locals and visitors alike.
A brief summary to Billy Bootleggers
- Arch 2 Stepney Bank, Newcastle upon Tyne, NE1 2NP, GB
- Duration: 1 to 4 hours
- Mid ranged
-
Indoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
- Monday 4 pm-12 am
- Tuesday 4 pm-12 am
- Wednesday 4 pm-12 am
- Thursday 4 pm-12 am
- Friday 12 pm-12 am
- Saturday 12 pm-12 am
- Sunday 12 pm-12 am
Local tips
- Visit during the daily happy hour from 4pm to 8pm for discounted drinks and a lively atmosphere.
- Enjoy the outdoor heated area to stay comfortable while socializing, especially on cooler evenings.
- Check the live music schedule in advance to catch your preferred bands or genres.
- Arrive early on weekends to secure a good spot, as the bar can get busy during peak times.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
Billy Bootleggers location weather suitability
-
Any Weather
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Cold Weather
-
Mild Temperatures
Discover more about Billy Bootleggers
A Hub for Live Music and Local Vibes
Billy Bootleggers sits tucked beneath the iconic Byker Bridge, serving as a dynamic venue for live music enthusiasts in Newcastle upon Tyne. This bar is renowned for its free live bands that perform regularly, creating an energetic and authentic atmosphere that draws a diverse crowd. The music ranges across genres, reflecting the city’s rich cultural tapestry and lively arts scene.Atmosphere and Setting
The venue combines the casual charm of a dive bar with the buzz of a live music hotspot. Its interior is cozy and unpretentious, encouraging socializing and relaxation. Outside, an inviting outdoor area equipped with heat lamps ensures comfort even during colder months, extending the space for patrons to enjoy fresh air without sacrificing warmth.Opening Hours and Service
Billy Bootleggers operates with a schedule catering to both early evening and late-night crowds. From Monday to Thursday, it opens at 4pm until midnight, while on Fridays through Sundays, it welcomes guests from noon to midnight. This schedule supports a range of experiences, from after-work drinks to weekend celebrations.Community and Culture
More than just a bar, Billy Bootleggers is a community hub where locals and visitors mingle. The staff, including notable figures like Lee and Tim, contribute to the friendly, inclusive vibe that patrons appreciate. Its location in a historically industrial part of Newcastle adds to its gritty, authentic character.Food, Drinks, and Pricing
While primarily celebrated for its live music and bar offerings, Billy Bootleggers also serves food, complementing its drink selection. The pricing is moderate, making it accessible to a broad audience seeking quality entertainment without premium costs. Daily happy hours from 4pm to 8pm offer additional value.Accessibility and Nearby Attractions
Situated in the heart of Newcastle, the bar is easily reachable by public transport and offers a vibrant nightlife experience close to other city attractions. Its unique setting under a bridge and combination of music, food, and drink make it a memorable destination for those exploring Newcastle’s cultural scene.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Little Buildings
0.2 km
An intimate live music venue in Newcastle’s Ouseburn Valley, perfect for discovering new bands and enjoying craft beers in a laid-back, buzzing atmosphere.
William Coulson Monument
0.5 km
A historic bronze tribute to William Coulson, Newcastle’s pioneering humanitarian and animal welfare advocate, with unique drinking troughs for animals.
Blacksmiths Needle
0.6 km
A captivating 7.6m steel sculpture on Newcastle Quayside, blending maritime themes with the five senses and a mysterious sixth sense.
Jess moore memorial wall 23/6/17 - 7/11/19
0.6 km
Explore the Jess Moore Memorial Wall in Newcastle upon Tyne, a heartfelt tribute to love and community resilience that reflects the spirit of the local culture.
River God
0.7 km
An iconic statue on Newcastle’s Quayside embodying the city’s deep connection to the River Tyne and its maritime heritage.
Mermaid
0.7 km
Discover the Mermaid, a historic symbol of Newcastle’s maritime heritage, set amidst the vibrant and scenic Quayside waterfront.
The Custom House Plaque
1.0 km
A historic marker on Newcastle’s Quayside commemorating the 1766 Custom House and the city’s maritime trade heritage.
Quayside
1.2 km
Quayside is a dynamic riverside district where iconic bridges meet vibrant culture, blending industrial heritage with modern art and lively waterfront life.
The Guildhall
1.2 km
Discover Newcastle’s historic Guildhall, a stunning 17th-century civic landmark rich in architecture and medieval heritage.
King John's Palace
1.2 km
Explore the fortified ruins of a 13th-century manor house in Newcastle’s Heaton Park, steeped in medieval history and royal intrigue.
Grey St
1.3 km
Newcastle's finest street—a sweeping curve of neoclassical elegance and cultural heritage.
Iles Tours (Iles Group Ltd)
1.3 km
Explore Newcastle upon Tyne with Iles Tours, where expert guides unveil the city's rich history and culture through unforgettable experiences.
1914 Monument
1.3 km
A stirring World War I memorial in Newcastle honoring local Fusiliers with evocative bronze sculpture and historic military symbolism.
Castle Wall Well
1.3 km
A medieval well marking Newcastle's 13th-century defensive walls and urban heritage.
The Response - Renwick War Memorial
1.3 km
A powerful and historic war memorial honoring the Northumberland Fusiliers’ spirit and sacrifice in World War I, set in serene Newcastle gardens.
Unmissable attractions to see
Ouseburn Farm Charity Ltd
0.1 km
A vibrant urban farm and charity in Newcastle offering free access to animals, gardens, and sustainable community experiences.
The Biscuit Factory
0.3 km
Discover Newcastle’s largest independent contemporary art gallery set in a historic warehouse, blending creativity, culture, and community.
Victoria Tunnel Tours
0.4 km
Walk through wartime darkness in Newcastle's hidden underground—a Victorian coal tunnel transformed into WWII shelter.
Gateshead Millennium Bridge
0.7 km
A graceful tilting bridge spanning the Tyne, linking culture and city with iconic elegance and stunning river views.
Baltic Centre for Contemporary Art
0.8 km
A striking riverside hub for cutting-edge contemporary art in a converted flour mill with panoramic Tyne views.
Quayside Sunday Market
0.9 km
A lively riverside market blending historic charm, artisan crafts, and vibrant street food every Sunday along Newcastle’s iconic Quayside.
Book stack
1.0 km
A striking Gothic Revival landmark blending Newcastle’s religious heritage with modern academic life on Northumberland Road.
Trinity House
1.0 km
Discover Newcastle’s maritime heritage and medieval charm at Trinity House, a historic gem on the quayside with centuries of seafaring stories.
Bonkers About Alice
1.0 km
A vibrant Sunday market along the River Tyne showcasing local crafts, food, and culture in Newcastle’s iconic Quayside setting.
The Glasshouse International Centre for Music
1.0 km
A world-class music venue and education centre on Gateshead Quayside where music lives, grows, and inspires all ages.
Laing Art Gallery
1.0 km
Discover Newcastle’s artistic heritage through historic and contemporary masterpieces at the Laing Art Gallery, a vibrant cultural hub in the city centre.
Campus Cat
1.0 km
Historic Grade II listed church in Newcastle with rich non-conformist roots and stunning Victorian architecture.
All Saints Church
1.0 km
Discover Newcastle's All Saints Church, a unique Georgian landmark with England’s only elliptical nave and a vibrant Presbyterian heritage.
Tyne Bridge
1.2 km
Discover the iconic Tyne Bridge, a stunning feat of engineering and a symbol of Newcastle's rich heritage, offering breathtaking views and historical significance.
Side Photographic Gallery
1.2 km
Discover powerful documentary photography in a historic, intimate gallery space beneath Newcastle’s Tyne Bridge.
Essential places to dine
Cook House
0.2 km
Discover the flavors of Newcastle at Cook House - where fresh ingredients meet creative cuisine in a warm atmosphere.
Gusto Italian
0.6 km
Experience authentic Italian flavors with a modern twist on Newcastle’s scenic Quayside at Gusto Italian.
Victors Newcastle
0.7 km
Experience modern Asian-inspired cuisine and vibrant cocktails under the wisteria on Newcastle’s iconic Quayside waterfront.
Malmaison Bar & Grill Newcastle
0.7 km
Stylish modern British dining and boutique hotel luxury on Newcastle’s scenic Quayside with riverside views and exclusive private rooms.
SIX Rooftop at BALTIC
0.8 km
Elegant rooftop dining atop the BALTIC Centre with stunning views, seasonal British cuisine, and a stylish bar in Gateshead’s cultural heart.
Tomahawk Steakhouse - Newcastle
0.8 km
Premium steakhouse on Newcastle’s Quayside offering expertly cooked tomahawk steaks and a vibrant riverside dining experience.
21
0.9 km
Elegant British dining with seasonal flair and French influences in Newcastle’s stylish Trinity Gardens setting.
The Broad Chare
0.9 km
A lively gastropub on Newcastle’s Quayside blending traditional British fare with seasonal, locally sourced excellence.
As You Like It
1.0 km
Eclectic dining and creative cocktails in Jesmond’s stylish hotspot, perfect for family meals and lively late nights.
Zucchini Pasta Bar
1.1 km
Newcastle’s only fresh pasta bar, serving hand-rolled egg pasta daily in a relaxed city-centre setting with vegetarian, vegan and gluten-free options.
Dobson and Parnell
1.1 km
Elegant fine dining in Newcastle’s historic Victorian setting, blending classic charm with modern British cuisine and attentive service.
Fratello's
1.1 km
Authentic Italian dining with warm hospitality and stonebaked pizzas in the heart of Jesmond, Newcastle upon Tyne.
Aveika
1.1 km
Innovative Japanese cuisine and vibrant nightlife converge at Aveika, Newcastle's stylish Quayside hotspot for dining and entertainment.
Uno's Trattoria
1.2 km
Discover authentic Italian flavors and generous portions in a lively, welcoming setting at Uno's Trattoria in Newcastle.
Native Cave Restaurant And Bar
1.2 km
A cozy Newcastle seafood haven famed for its irresistible seafood boil and authentic, flavorful dishes in a casual setting.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Bibelot Nook
0.1 km
Discover timeless vintage furniture and unique homewares at Bibelot Nook, Newcastle’s hub for sustainable style and local artistry.
Flea Circus
0.5 km
Discover Newcastle’s vibrant vintage hub blending retro style, handmade crafts, and unique collectibles all under one roof.
37 Studios
0.5 km
Stylish accessories by the Tyne: Discover unique jewelry and bags at this Quayside boutique in Newcastle's creative heart.
What About This
1.0 km
Explore Byker's vibrant ladies' clothing shop, 'What About This', where unique styles and local charm meet in Newcastle upon Tyne.
Jay's Boutique & Gifts
1.1 km
Discover bespoke tailoring and unique gifts combined in a charming boutique at Newcastle’s Upper Princess Square.
Quayside News
1.2 km
Discover Quayside News, your charming convenience store in Newcastle, perfect for grabbing snacks, drinks, and local treats while exploring the Quayside.
Corner Shop
1.2 km
Independent city-centre shop offering curated everyday essentials and gifts on historic Pilgrim Street.
The Vintage Scene Newcastle
1.2 km
Discover timeless vintage fashion treasures at The Vintage Scene Newcastle, a curated boutique for eclectic style lovers in the city center.
Elula
1.2 km
Discover Newcastle’s mystical gift shop offering unique jewellery, crystals, and spiritual treasures in a cozy, artistic setting with a welcoming café below.
UpSide Down Presents
1.2 km
A vibrant, independent gift shop under Newcastle’s railway arch, packed with Geordie souvenirs, original cards, and quirky presents for every occasion.
Souvenirs upon Tyne
1.2 km
Discover authentic Geordie treasures in Newcastle’s smallest independent souvenir shop nestled under a historic railway arch.
The Works
1.3 km
Affordable books, arts, crafts, and toys in the heart of Newcastle’s bustling Eldon Square Shopping Centre.
Time Antiques
1.3 km
Discover authentic antiques and collectibles with expert care at Time Antiques, a historic gem in Newcastle’s vibrant Antique Centre.
Waceland
1.3 km
Discover unique vintage and streetwear treasures in Newcastle’s iconic Central Arcade, where style meets sustainability and family values.
The One World Shop
1.3 km
Discover ethically sourced gifts and natural foods in a historic church setting, supporting fair trade and sustainability in Newcastle upon Tyne.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Billy Bootleggers
0.0 km
Step into Billy Bootleggers for authentic Americana vibes, live rockabilly tunes, and legendary bourbon brews in Newcastle’s lively Ouseburn district.
The Tyne Bar
0.5 km
A vibrant hub for craft beer, live music, and community spirit nestled in Newcastle’s creative Ouseburn Valley.
Pitcher & Piano Newcastle
0.6 km
A multi-level Quayside bar with panoramic Tyne views, long cocktails and a lively weekend vibe for groups and riverfront people-watching.
Free Trade Inn
0.6 km
A historic riverside pub in Newcastle offering craft beers, stunning Tyne views, and a warm, lively atmosphere all day long.
Urban Garden Newcastle
0.8 km
A relaxed container-style beer garden on Newcastle’s Quayside—festoon lights, craft taps and riverside atmosphere for groups and sunset drinks.
The Head of Steam Quayside
0.9 km
Riverside pub haven pouring world-class craft beers, vegan feasts, and games beside Newcastle's Tyne Bridge and cultural gems.
Holy Hobo
1.1 km
Jesmond's bold bar for monster burgers, craft pours, bottomless brunches, and beats till 2am—where quirky comfort meets non-stop nightlife energy.
The Punch Bowl
1.2 km
Jesmond's wood-paneled gem: quirky wines, world tapas, epic roasts, and a lively vibe in a classic pub setting.
Alvinos Bar
1.2 km
A lively Italian-owned bar in Newcastle with creative cocktails, craft brews, live DJs, and a welcoming multi-floor setting on Pilgrim Street.
The Market Lane
1.2 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.
Lady Greys
1.2 km
Cozy, classic Newcastle pub with excellent real ales, friendly staff, and a lively late-night atmosphere on Shakespeare Street.
Colonel Porter's Emporium
1.2 km
Newcastle's 1920s explorer's paradise: botanical gardens, vintage cocktails, live music, and hidden discos in historic Milburn House.
All Bar One Newcastle
1.3 km
Stylish Grey Street bar serving coffee by day and cocktails by night, with tapas and wines in Newcastle's buzzing heart.
The Exchange
1.3 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
1.3 km
Newcastle's speakeasy secret: inventive cocktails via roulette wheel in a historic Cloth Market hideaway, blending mixology mastery with intimate Mediterranean chic.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
World HQ
1.0 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.
SOHO ROOMS | Newcastle
1.2 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.
Greys Club
1.2 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
1.3 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.
Tup Tup Palace
1.3 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
1.3 km
Discover Newcastle’s vibrant alternative nightclub with themed indie, rock, and disco nights in a cozy, unpretentious setting.
TROPICANA NEWCASTLE
1.4 km
Experience Newcastle’s vibrant nightlife at Tropicana, a lively nightclub blending cocktail sophistication with energetic club beats in the city’s heart.
Loca Loca | Newcastle
1.4 km
A compact, neon-lit nightclub on Groat Market serving late-night dance, chart and urban sets in an intimate city-centre setting.
Bohemia Newcastle
1.4 km
Neon-lit cocktail bar and compact club with graffiti murals, a mezzanine dance space and a sheltered courtyard terrace for late-night socialising.
Popworld - Newcastle
1.4 km
A neon-soaked pop party on Newcastle’s Bigg Market—cheap drinks, nostalgic anthems and a packed dancefloor for late-night revelry.
The Social Club
1.4 km
Experience Newcastle’s vibrant nightlife at The Social Club, where music, cocktails, and dancing come alive until the early hours.
Sinners
1.6 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.
Cosmic Ballroom
1.7 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.
Digital
1.9 km
Experience cutting-edge nightlife with superior sound and vibrant energy at Digital, Newcastle’s premier clubbing destination in Times Square.
Powerhouse
2.0 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
- Casual
- Unique
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Rustic Designs
For the architecture buff
- Industrial
- 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
- Festival / Event Nearby
- Nightlife
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Adult Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- LGBT Friendly
- Teen Friendly