Little Buildings
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.
Tucked away in Newcastle’s Ouseburn Valley, Little Buildings is a beloved live music venue and bar known for its intimate gigs and eclectic atmosphere. With a capacity of around 60, it’s a hub for emerging and established artists, offering a close-up experience of everything from rock and punk to indie and electronic acts. The upstairs bar serves a great selection of craft beers, ciders, spirits, and cocktails, all in a laid-back, friendly setting. While the venue doesn’t serve food itself, excellent options are available nearby, making it a perfect spot for a casual night out centered around great music and good drinks.
A brief summary to Little Buildings
- 3-5 Stepney Bank, Newcastle upon Tyne, NE1 2PW, GB
- +441912602486
- Visit website
- Duration: 2 to 6 hours
- Budget
-
Mixed
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
Local tips
- Check the gig schedule in advance if you’re coming for a specific band, as shows can sell out or have limited capacity.
- Grab food from one of the nearby restaurants or cafes before the show, as Little Buildings doesn’t serve meals on-site.
- Arrive early for popular gigs to secure a good spot near the stage, especially on weekends when the venue gets busy.
- Be prepared for a loud, energetic atmosphere during peak times; it’s part of the venue’s character but may not suit those seeking a quiet night out.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Drinking Water
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Trash Bins
- Information Boards
Getting There
-
Walking from Newcastle city centre
From Newcastle city centre, it’s about a 15–20 minute walk along the Ouseburn Valley path. The route is mostly flat and well-lit, passing through a lively area with other bars and music venues. Follow signs for the Ouseburn and Stepney Bank; the venue is clearly marked on 3–5 Stepney Bank.
-
Public transport (bus)
Several local bus routes serve the Ouseburn area, with stops within a 5–10 minute walk of Little Buildings. From the main bus station, the journey takes around 10–15 minutes, depending on traffic. Check local timetables for the most direct route to the Ouseburn or Stepney Bank area.
-
Taxi or ride‑sharing
A taxi or ride‑sharing service from Newcastle city centre to Little Buildings takes about 5–10 minutes. The drop‑off point is right outside the venue on Stepney Bank, with easy access for groups heading to a gig.
-
Cycling
Cyclists can reach Little Buildings via the Ouseburn Valley cycle route, which connects to the city centre and surrounding areas. There are limited bike racks nearby, so it’s best to lock your bike securely and keep valuables with you.
Little Buildings location weather suitability
-
Any Weather
-
Rain / Wet Weather
-
Mild Temperatures
Discover more about Little Buildings
A grassroots music haven in Ouseburn
Nestled in the creative heart of Newcastle’s Ouseburn Valley, Little Buildings has earned its reputation as one of the city’s most cherished live music venues. Originally set up as a rehearsal space, it quickly evolved into a DIY gig hub that helped launch the careers of many local bands. Today, it remains a vital part of the North East’s music scene, hosting a diverse mix of artists—from up-and-coming indie acts and punk bands to electronic performers and tribute acts. The venue’s small size, with a capacity of around 60, ensures an up-close, energetic experience where the crowd is never far from the stage.Intimate gigs and a buzzing bar atmosphere
The charm of Little Buildings lies in its intimacy and authenticity. Gigs here feel personal and unfiltered, with a crowd that’s genuinely there for the music. The stage hosts a wide range of genres, making it a go-to spot for discovering new sounds or catching a high-energy set from a familiar name. Between sets, the atmosphere shifts to a relaxed bar vibe, with patrons chatting, laughing, and enjoying drinks in a cozy, slightly quirky space. The friendly, chatty staff add to the welcoming feel, making it easy to strike up a conversation whether you’re a regular or a first-time visitor.Drinks and a no-frills, music-first approach
Upstairs, the bar is the social heart of the venue, offering a well-chosen selection of craft beers (including draught Anarchy Craft ales), lagers, ciders, spirits, and specialty cocktails. The infamous Buckfast is also on offer for those who like their night to go a little harder. Prices are reasonable, especially considering the quality and the live music on offer, and there’s a good range of non-alcoholic options for those who prefer to stay sober. While Little Buildings doesn’t serve food itself, there are excellent eateries right next door, so it’s easy to grab a bite before or after the show.Practical details for a night out
The venue is open seven days a week, with weekday hours running from 11:00 AM to 11:00 PM and late-night openings on Fridays and Saturdays until 1:30 AM. Gig times vary, so it’s worth checking the schedule in advance if you’re coming specifically for a performance. The space is compact and informal, with a focus on music and atmosphere rather than luxury. Restrooms are available on-site, and the bar accepts card and mobile payments, making it easy to enjoy a night out without needing cash. For those planning a visit, it’s worth noting that the venue can get quite loud during peak times, so it’s best suited to those who enjoy a lively, energetic environment.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Little Buildings
0.0 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.
Blacksmiths Needle
0.4 km
A captivating 7.6m steel sculpture on Newcastle Quayside, blending maritime themes with the five senses and a mysterious sixth sense.
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.
River God
0.6 km
An iconic statue on Newcastle’s Quayside embodying the city’s deep connection to the River Tyne and its maritime heritage.
Mermaid
0.6 km
Discover the Mermaid, a historic symbol of Newcastle’s maritime heritage, set amidst the vibrant and scenic Quayside waterfront.
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.
The Custom House Plaque
0.8 km
A historic marker on Newcastle’s Quayside commemorating the 1766 Custom House and the city’s maritime trade heritage.
Quayside
1.0 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
1.0 km
Discover Newcastle’s historic Guildhall, a stunning 17th-century civic landmark rich in architecture and medieval heritage.
Grey St
1.1 km
Newcastle's finest street—a sweeping curve of neoclassical elegance and cultural heritage.
Iles Tours (Iles Group Ltd)
1.1 km
Explore Newcastle upon Tyne with Iles Tours, where expert guides unveil the city's rich history and culture through unforgettable experiences.
Castle Wall Well
1.1 km
A medieval well marking Newcastle's 13th-century defensive walls and urban heritage.
The Black Gate
1.1 km
Medieval fortress gateway where Newcastle's story began, now fully accessible with rich exhibitions.
Newcastle Keep
1.1 km
Climb 99 steps through four centuries of medieval power and emerge onto rooftop views that define Newcastle.
1914 Monument
1.1 km
A stirring World War I memorial in Newcastle honoring local Fusiliers with evocative bronze sculpture and historic military symbolism.
Unmissable attractions to see
Seven Stories
0.3 km
Discover the magic of children's books at Seven Stories, Newcastle’s vibrant national centre for storytelling, exhibitions, and family fun.
Ouseburn Farm Charity Ltd
0.3 km
A vibrant urban farm and charity in Newcastle offering free access to animals, gardens, and sustainable community experiences.
Victoria Tunnel Tours
0.5 km
Walk through wartime darkness in Newcastle's hidden underground—a Victorian coal tunnel transformed into WWII shelter.
Gateshead Millennium Bridge
0.6 km
A graceful tilting bridge spanning the Tyne, linking culture and city with iconic elegance and stunning river views.
Baltic Centre for Contemporary Art
0.6 km
A striking riverside hub for cutting-edge contemporary art in a converted flour mill with panoramic Tyne views.
Trinity House
0.8 km
Discover Newcastle’s maritime heritage and medieval charm at Trinity House, a historic gem on the quayside with centuries of seafaring stories.
Quayside Sunday Market
0.8 km
A lively riverside market blending historic charm, artisan crafts, and vibrant street food every Sunday along Newcastle’s iconic Quayside.
Bonkers About Alice
0.8 km
A vibrant Sunday market along the River Tyne showcasing local crafts, food, and culture in Newcastle’s iconic Quayside setting.
Book stack
0.8 km
A striking Gothic Revival landmark blending Newcastle’s religious heritage with modern academic life on Northumberland Road.
Laing Art Gallery
0.8 km
Discover Newcastle’s artistic heritage through historic and contemporary masterpieces at the Laing Art Gallery, a vibrant cultural hub in the city centre.
The Glasshouse International Centre for Music
0.9 km
A world-class music venue and education centre on Gateshead Quayside where music lives, grows, and inspires all ages.
All Saints Church
0.9 km
Discover Newcastle's All Saints Church, a unique Georgian landmark with England’s only elliptical nave and a vibrant Presbyterian heritage.
Campus Cat
0.9 km
Historic Grade II listed church in Newcastle with rich non-conformist roots and stunning Victorian architecture.
Tyne Bridge
1.0 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
1.0 km
Discover powerful documentary photography in a historic, intimate gallery space beneath Newcastle’s Tyne Bridge.
Essential places to dine
Cook House
0.4 km
Discover the flavors of Newcastle at Cook House - where fresh ingredients meet creative cuisine in a warm atmosphere.
Gusto Italian
0.5 km
Experience authentic Italian flavors with a modern twist on Newcastle’s scenic Quayside at Gusto Italian.
Victors Newcastle
0.5 km
Experience modern Asian-inspired cuisine and vibrant cocktails under the wisteria on Newcastle’s iconic Quayside waterfront.
Malmaison Bar & Grill Newcastle
0.5 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
0.6 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
0.6 km
Premium steakhouse on Newcastle’s Quayside offering expertly cooked tomahawk steaks and a vibrant riverside dining experience.
21
0.7 km
Elegant British dining with seasonal flair and French influences in Newcastle’s stylish Trinity Gardens setting.
The Broad Chare
0.8 km
A lively gastropub on Newcastle’s Quayside blending traditional British fare with seasonal, locally sourced excellence.
Zucchini Pasta Bar
0.9 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
0.9 km
Elegant fine dining in Newcastle’s historic Victorian setting, blending classic charm with modern British cuisine and attentive service.
As You Like It
0.9 km
Eclectic dining and creative cocktails in Jesmond’s stylish hotspot, perfect for family meals and lively late nights.
Aveika
1.0 km
Innovative Japanese cuisine and vibrant nightlife converge at Aveika, Newcastle's stylish Quayside hotspot for dining and entertainment.
Native Cave Restaurant And Bar
1.0 km
A cozy Newcastle seafood haven famed for its irresistible seafood boil and authentic, flavorful dishes in a casual setting.
Uno's Trattoria
1.0 km
Discover authentic Italian flavors and generous portions in a lively, welcoming setting at Uno's Trattoria in Newcastle.
Portofino Restaurant
1.0 km
Experience authentic Italian cuisine in a stunning Victorian setting with warm hospitality and vibrant atmosphere in Newcastle.
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.
37 Studios
0.4 km
Stylish accessories by the Tyne: Discover unique jewelry and bags at this Quayside boutique in Newcastle's creative heart.
Flea Circus
0.5 km
Discover Newcastle’s vibrant vintage hub blending retro style, handmade crafts, and unique collectibles all under one roof.
Jay's Boutique & Gifts
0.9 km
Discover bespoke tailoring and unique gifts combined in a charming boutique at Newcastle’s Upper Princess Square.
Corner Shop
1.0 km
Independent city-centre shop offering curated everyday essentials and gifts on historic Pilgrim Street.
Quayside News
1.0 km
Discover Quayside News, your charming convenience store in Newcastle, perfect for grabbing snacks, drinks, and local treats while exploring the Quayside.
UpSide Down Presents
1.0 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
1.0 km
Discover authentic Geordie treasures in Newcastle’s smallest independent souvenir shop nestled under a historic railway arch.
The Vintage Scene Newcastle
1.1 km
Discover timeless vintage fashion treasures at The Vintage Scene Newcastle, a curated boutique for eclectic style lovers in the city center.
Elula
1.1 km
Discover Newcastle’s mystical gift shop offering unique jewellery, crystals, and spiritual treasures in a cozy, artistic setting with a welcoming café below.
The Works
1.1 km
Affordable books, arts, crafts, and toys in the heart of Newcastle’s bustling Eldon Square Shopping Centre.
Waceland
1.1 km
Discover unique vintage and streetwear treasures in Newcastle’s iconic Central Arcade, where style meets sustainability and family values.
Retro , Vintage Clothing Newcastle.
1.1 km
Discover timeless style and unique vintage finds at Retro Newcastle, your go-to boutique for retro clothing in the heart of the city.
Cath Kidston
1.1 km
Floral fantasies and vintage vibes on Newcastle's Grainger Street—where British charm meets everyday elegance in bags, clothes, and home treasures.
Time Antiques
1.1 km
Discover authentic antiques and collectibles with expert care at Time Antiques, a historic gem in Newcastle’s vibrant Antique Centre.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Billy Bootleggers
0.2 km
Step into Billy Bootleggers for authentic Americana vibes, live rockabilly tunes, and legendary bourbon brews in Newcastle’s lively Ouseburn district.
Pitcher & Piano Newcastle
0.5 km
A multi-level Quayside bar with panoramic Tyne views, long cocktails and a lively weekend vibe for groups and riverfront people-watching.
The Tyne Bar
0.6 km
A vibrant hub for craft beer, live music, and community spirit nestled in Newcastle’s creative Ouseburn Valley.
Urban Garden Newcastle
0.7 km
A relaxed container-style beer garden on Newcastle’s Quayside—festoon lights, craft taps and riverside atmosphere for groups and sunset drinks.
Free Trade Inn
0.7 km
A historic riverside pub in Newcastle offering craft beers, stunning Tyne views, and a warm, lively atmosphere all day long.
The Head of Steam Quayside
0.8 km
Riverside pub haven pouring world-class craft beers, vegan feasts, and games beside Newcastle's Tyne Bridge and cultural gems.
Alvinos Bar
1.0 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
1.0 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.
Holy Hobo
1.0 km
Jesmond's bold bar for monster burgers, craft pours, bottomless brunches, and beats till 2am—where quirky comfort meets non-stop nightlife energy.
Lady Greys
1.0 km
Cozy, classic Newcastle pub with excellent real ales, friendly staff, and a lively late-night atmosphere on Shakespeare Street.
Colonel Porter's Emporium
1.0 km
Newcastle's 1920s explorer's paradise: botanical gardens, vintage cocktails, live music, and hidden discos in historic Milburn House.
All Bar One Newcastle
1.1 km
Stylish Grey Street bar serving coffee by day and cocktails by night, with tapas and wines in Newcastle's buzzing heart.
The Exchange
1.1 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
1.1 km
Newcastle's speakeasy secret: inventive cocktails via roulette wheel in a historic Cloth Market hideaway, blending mixology mastery with intimate Mediterranean chic.
The Alchemist Newcastle
1.2 km
Experience Newcastle’s premier cocktail laboratory with dramatic drinks, creative dining, and a captivating gothic atmosphere in Eldon Square.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
World HQ
0.8 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
1.0 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
1.1 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
1.1 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
1.2 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
1.2 km
Discover Newcastle’s vibrant alternative nightclub with themed indie, rock, and disco nights in a cozy, unpretentious setting.
TROPICANA NEWCASTLE
1.2 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
1.2 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
1.2 km
Neon-lit cocktail bar and compact club with graffiti murals, a mezzanine dance space and a sheltered courtyard terrace for late-night socialising.
Popworld - Newcastle
1.2 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
1.2 km
Experience Newcastle’s vibrant nightlife at The Social Club, where music, cocktails, and dancing come alive until the early hours.
Sinners
1.4 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
1.5 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
1.8 km
Experience cutting-edge nightlife with superior sound and vibrant energy at Digital, Newcastle’s premier clubbing destination in Times Square.
Powerhouse
1.8 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
- Entertaining
- Casual
- Unique
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Retro Vibes
- Industrial Designs
- Bohemian Styles
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- Art & Design
- Heritage Neighborhoods
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Selfie Spots
- Aesthetic Corners
- Reel-Friendly
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- LGBT Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Pet Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Female Friendly
- Business Friendly
