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Blackie Boy

Historic Newcastle bar with cosy vibes, free jukebox anthems, cheap drinks deals, and late-night energy in Groat Market's lively heart.

3.8

Nestled in the bustling heart of Newcastle's Groat Market, Blackie Boy is a historic bar tracing its roots to the early 1800s. This narrow, stylish venue offers a cosy, dimly lit atmosphere with a free jukebox, diverse drinks menu including beers, cocktails, and spirits, plus an outdoor alley seating area. Open late on weekends, it draws locals and visitors for its lively vibe and affordable specials like £5 pint-and-shot deals.

A brief summary to Blackie Boy

  • 11 Groat Market, Newcastle upon Tyne, NE1 1UQ, GB
  • +441912320730
  • Duration: 1 to 3 hours
  • Mid ranged
  • Environment icon Indoor
  • Mobile reception: 5 out of 5
  • Wednesday 7 pm-2 am
  • Friday 5 pm-3 am
  • Saturday 5 pm-3 am

Local tips

  • Opt for the £5 pint-and-shot or student treble deals to keep costs low during peak hours.
  • Use the free jukebox for custom playlists—soul, punk, and anthems keep the crowd moving.
  • Head to the alley outdoor area for fresh air and standing space when the bar fills up.
  • Book the upstairs function room early for parties; it accommodates up to 100 with catering options.
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Historic Roots in Newcastle's Pub Scene

Blackie Boy stands as a enduring fixture on 11 Groat Market, with origins stretching back to the early 1800s when the site served as a blacksmith's workshop. Renamed over the centuries as Black Boy and later Blackie Boy, it has weathered more than 200 years of transformation while anchoring itself in Newcastle upon Tyne's vibrant nightlife district near the Bigg Market. The bar's longevity reflects the city's rich pub culture, where narrow alleyways and stone-built taverns have long fostered communal gatherings. Today, it maintains echoes of its past through preserved elements like a 1923 antique clock behind the bar, blending heritage with modern appeal.

Intimate Layout and Stylish Interiors

Step inside to discover a long, narrow bar space characterised by a dark, subdued ambiance illuminated by cylindrical lighting and ceiling fans. High tables line the walls, creating cosy nooks for groups, while standing room opposite the bar accommodates the evening rush. An adjacent alley opens to an outdoor smoking and standing area, extending the venue's footprint into Newcastle's lively streetscape. Upstairs, a function room caters to private parties of 6 to 100, complete with options for champagne and canapés upon request.

Diverse Drinks and Special Offers

Blackie Boy boasts an extensive selection on tap, including John Smith's Cold, Fosters, Cruzcampo, Amstel, Moretti, and Guinness, alongside Strongbow cider, bottled beers, wines, and cocktails. Standout deals feature 2 cocktails for £12, student specials like 2 trebles and a bomb for £8.50, and pint-and-shot combos at £5. The bar emphasises a drinking-focused experience without advertised meals, prioritising quick service and variety to fuel nights out in this energetic locale.

Lively Evenings and Free Jukebox Tunes

Music pulses through the venue via a free jukebox, playing everything from soul to punk, setting the tone for spontaneous sing-alongs and diverse crowds. Regular background tracks enhance the cosy feel, particularly as the night deepens into the early hours. Weekends see the bar at its most animated, with openings from 5pm Fridays and Saturdays until 3am, and Wednesdays from 7pm to 2am. This schedule aligns perfectly with Newcastle's renowned nightlife, drawing a mix of locals and younger revelers.

Central Position in the Bigg Market

Positioned in the centre of Groat Market, Blackie Boy benefits from its proximity to Newcastle's pulsing entertainment hubs. The surrounding area buzzes with energy, making it an ideal stop on pub crawls or pre-night-out gatherings. Accessible yet tucked away, the venue offers good disabled access at ground level, though the upstairs room presents challenges. Clean, compact toilets round out the practicalities for extended stays.

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