The Biscuit Factory: Newcastle’s Premier Independent Contemporary Art Gallery
Discover Newcastle’s largest independent contemporary art gallery set in a historic warehouse, blending vibrant creativity with industrial charm.
The Biscuit Factory is the UK’s largest independent contemporary art, craft, and design gallery, housed in a beautifully restored Victorian warehouse in Newcastle’s cultural quarter, Ouseburn. Open daily with free entry, it showcases over 200 artists’ works across two floors, including paintings, sculpture, prints, jewellery, and design-led homewares. The venue also features an acclaimed rooftop café and hosts workshops, events, and private hire opportunities, blending industrial heritage with vibrant creativity.
A brief summary to The Biscuit Factory
- 16 Stoddart St, Newcastle upon Tyne, Shieldfield, NE2 1AN, GB
- +441912611103
- Visit website
- Duration: 1 to 2 hours
- Free
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Indoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
- Monday 10 am-5 pm
- Tuesday 10 am-5 pm
- Wednesday 10 am-5 pm
- Thursday 10 am-5 pm
- Friday 10 am-5 pm
- Saturday 10 am-5 pm
- Sunday 10 am-5 pm
Local tips
- Visit on weekday mornings for a quieter experience and more time to appreciate the art.
- Don’t miss the rooftop café, The Factory Kitchen, for seasonal brunches and scenic views.
- Explore the artist-led workshops to try your hand at various art and craft techniques.
- Check the gallery’s rotating exhibitions schedule to catch headline shows during your visit.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
Getting There
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Public Transport
Take the Metro to Manors Station, then enjoy a 10 to 15-minute walk through Newcastle’s cultural quarter to reach The Biscuit Factory. Frequent bus routes including Stagecoach numbers 1, 12, 15, and Go North East services stop nearby on Warwick Street and New Bridge Street. This option typically takes 20 to 30 minutes from central Newcastle and costs around £2-£3.
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Taxi
A taxi ride from central Newcastle or Manors Metro Station to The Biscuit Factory takes approximately 5 to 10 minutes, depending on traffic. Taxi fares generally range from £5 to £10, providing a quick and convenient option especially for groups or those with mobility needs.
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Walking
If you are staying nearby, walking to The Biscuit Factory is a pleasant option, taking about 15 to 20 minutes through the vibrant Ouseburn Valley area. The terrain is flat and accessible, suitable for most visitors and allowing you to soak in the cultural atmosphere en route.
The Biscuit Factory location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Mild Temperatures
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Rain / Wet Weather
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Clear Skies
Discover more about The Biscuit Factory
An Industrial Heritage Transformed into a Creative Hub
Set in a former Victorian biscuit manufacturing warehouse in Newcastle’s Ouseburn Valley, The Biscuit Factory retains much of its original industrial character, offering a striking backdrop for contemporary art. Since its establishment in 2002, the gallery has evolved into a dynamic cultural landmark, with spacious exhibition areas across two floors that highlight the building’s historic architecture while fostering a modern creative atmosphere.A Showcase of Diverse Contemporary Art and Craft
The gallery proudly represents over 200 artists each season, featuring a broad range of mediums including fine art paintings, sculpture, original prints, ceramics, textiles, jewellery, and design-led homewares. Its constantly rotating exhibition programme includes headline shows lasting from four to twelve weeks, complemented by works from local, national, and some international artists. This diversity ensures fresh and engaging experiences for visitors on every visit.Supporting Artists and Making Art Accessible
The Biscuit Factory’s ethos centers on providing a platform for emerging and mid-career artists, nurturing creativity, and fostering a genuine marketplace for art sales. The gallery offers professional guidance to both seasoned collectors and first-time buyers, including the UK’s interest-free Own Art purchase scheme. Through its charitable foundation, it supports the development of artists’ careers and collaborates with national arts initiatives to enrich the region’s cultural landscape.A Vibrant Social and Cultural Venue
Beyond exhibitions, The Biscuit Factory is a lively community space hosting artist-led workshops, talks, book launches, and special events that encourage creative engagement. The in-house café, The Factory Kitchen, located on the first floor, is renowned for its fresh, seasonal brunch menu, homemade cakes, and coffee, enhanced by a partially covered rooftop terrace offering scenic views and a relaxed atmosphere.Flexible Spaces for Events and Celebrations
The venue also serves as a unique setting for weddings, parties, and corporate hospitality, blending industrial charm with artistic flair. Its hireable spaces provide a distinctive environment that celebrates creativity and connection, making it a sought-after location for private and public events in Newcastle.Visitor Experience and Practical Information
Open daily from 10am to 5pm with free entry, The Biscuit Factory welcomes over 50,000 visitors annually. It is easily accessible via public transport and offers nearby bus routes, metro access, and taxi services. The gallery’s friendly team assists visitors in exploring the extensive collections and finding pieces that resonate personally. With its combination of historic ambiance, diverse art offerings, and vibrant social spaces, The Biscuit Factory is a cornerstone of Newcastle’s cultural quarter.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.
Jess moore memorial wall 23/6/17 - 7/11/19
0.3 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.
Blacksmiths Needle
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A captivating 7.6m steel sculpture on Newcastle Quayside, blending maritime themes with the five senses and a mysterious sixth sense.
Mermaid
0.7 km
Discover the Mermaid, a historic symbol of Newcastle’s maritime heritage, set amidst the vibrant and scenic Quayside waterfront.
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.
William Coulson Monument
0.7 km
A historic bronze tribute to William Coulson, Newcastle’s pioneering humanitarian and animal welfare advocate, with unique drinking troughs for animals.
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.
1914 Monument
1.0 km
A stirring World War I memorial in Newcastle honoring local Fusiliers with evocative bronze sculpture and historic military symbolism.
The Response - Renwick War Memorial
1.0 km
A powerful and historic war memorial honoring the Northumberland Fusiliers’ spirit and sacrifice in World War I, set in serene Newcastle gardens.
Lord Armstrong Memorial
1.0 km
A striking bronze tribute at Barras Bridge honoring Lord Armstrong’s pioneering engineering and lasting legacy in Newcastle’s industrial history.
Iles Tours (Iles Group Ltd)
1.0 km
Explore Newcastle upon Tyne with Iles Tours, where expert guides unveil the city's rich history and culture through unforgettable experiences.
Grey St
1.0 km
Newcastle's finest street—a sweeping curve of neoclassical elegance and cultural heritage.
King's Gate
1.1 km
Newcastle University's contemporary student services hub with striking glazed architecture on Barras Bridge.
The Guildhall
1.1 km
Discover Newcastle’s historic Guildhall, a stunning 17th-century civic landmark rich in architecture and medieval heritage.
Quayside
1.1 km
Quayside is a dynamic riverside district where iconic bridges meet vibrant culture, blending industrial heritage with modern art and lively waterfront life.
Unmissable attractions to see
Seven Stories
0.4 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
0.4 km
A vibrant urban farm and charity in Newcastle offering free access to animals, gardens, and sustainable community experiences.
Book stack
0.7 km
A striking Gothic Revival landmark blending Newcastle’s religious heritage with modern academic life on Northumberland Road.
Victoria Tunnel Tours
0.7 km
Walk through wartime darkness in Newcastle's hidden underground—a Victorian coal tunnel transformed into WWII shelter.
Campus Cat
0.7 km
Historic Grade II listed church in Newcastle with rich non-conformist roots and stunning Victorian architecture.
Gateshead Millennium Bridge
0.8 km
A graceful tilting bridge spanning the Tyne, linking culture and city with iconic elegance and stunning river views.
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.
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.
Trinity House
0.9 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
0.9 km
A lively riverside market blending historic charm, artisan crafts, and vibrant street food every Sunday along Newcastle’s iconic Quayside.
Bonkers About Alice
0.9 km
A vibrant Sunday market along the River Tyne showcasing local crafts, food, and culture in Newcastle’s iconic Quayside setting.
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.
Civic Centre Gardens
1.0 km
A peaceful urban oasis blending nature, art, and heritage in the heart of Newcastle’s Civic Centre.
TK Maxx
1.0 km
Discover unbeatable deals on designer fashion and homeware at TK Maxx, Monument Mall’s vibrant department store in Newcastle.
Fenwick Newcastle
1.0 km
Newcastle’s iconic five-floor department store blending historic charm, luxury shopping, and a renowned food hall in the city centre.
Essential places to dine
Cook House
0.5 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.
As You Like It
0.7 km
Eclectic dining and creative cocktails in Jesmond’s stylish hotspot, perfect for family meals and lively late nights.
Tomahawk Steakhouse - Newcastle
0.8 km
Premium steakhouse on Newcastle’s Quayside offering expertly cooked tomahawk steaks and a vibrant riverside dining experience.
21
0.8 km
Elegant British dining with seasonal flair and French influences in Newcastle’s stylish Trinity Gardens setting.
Fratello's
0.8 km
Authentic Italian dining with warm hospitality and stonebaked pizzas in the heart of Jesmond, Newcastle upon Tyne.
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.
The Broad Chare
0.9 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.
Fuego
1.0 km
Experience authentic Mediterranean tapas, Napoli-style pizzas, and vibrant cocktails in the heart of Newcastle at Fuego by Fenwick.
Lola Jeans
1.0 km
Lola Jeans Newcastle offers award-winning American comfort food, signature cocktails, and a vibrant, art-filled atmosphere in the city centre.
Gaucho Newcastle
1.0 km
Experience premium Argentinian steaks and vibrant South American flavors in a stylish, sophisticated Newcastle setting.
Dobson and Parnell
1.0 km
Elegant fine dining in Newcastle’s historic Victorian setting, blending classic charm with modern British cuisine and attentive service.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Bibelot Nook
0.2 km
Discover timeless vintage furniture and unique homewares at Bibelot Nook, Newcastle’s hub for sustainable style and local artistry.
Flea Circus
0.3 km
Discover Newcastle’s vibrant vintage hub blending retro style, handmade crafts, and unique collectibles all under one roof.
37 Studios
0.6 km
Stylish accessories by the Tyne: Discover unique jewelry and bags at this Quayside boutique in Newcastle's creative heart.
Jay's Boutique & Gifts
0.9 km
Discover bespoke tailoring and unique gifts combined in a charming boutique at Newcastle’s Upper Princess Square.
The Vintage Scene Newcastle
0.9 km
Discover timeless vintage fashion treasures at The Vintage Scene Newcastle, a curated boutique for eclectic style lovers in the city center.
Elula
0.9 km
Discover Newcastle’s mystical gift shop offering unique jewellery, crystals, and spiritual treasures in a cozy, artistic setting with a welcoming café below.
Corner Shop
1.0 km
Independent city-centre shop offering curated everyday essentials and gifts on historic Pilgrim Street.
The One World Shop
1.0 km
Discover ethically sourced gifts and natural foods in a historic church setting, supporting fair trade and sustainability in Newcastle upon Tyne.
Time Antiques
1.0 km
Discover authentic antiques and collectibles with expert care at Time Antiques, a historic gem in Newcastle’s vibrant Antique Centre.
The Works
1.0 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.
Quayside News
1.1 km
Discover Quayside News, your charming convenience store in Newcastle, perfect for grabbing snacks, drinks, and local treats while exploring the Quayside.
Urban Outfitters
1.1 km
Discover stylish fashion and eclectic homewares at Urban Outfitters Newcastle, a vibrant hub of creativity and contemporary lifestyle on Grainger Street.
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.
Friday Vintage
1.1 km
Award-winning vintage boutique celebrating curated fashion from the 1940s to 2000s in historic Old Eldon Square.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Billy Bootleggers
0.3 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
0.6 km
A multi-level Quayside bar with panoramic Tyne views, long cocktails and a lively weekend vibe for groups and riverfront people-watching.
Holy Hobo
0.8 km
Jesmond's bold bar for monster burgers, craft pours, bottomless brunches, and beats till 2am—where quirky comfort meets non-stop nightlife energy.
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 Tyne Bar
0.8 km
A vibrant hub for craft beer, live music, and community spirit nestled in Newcastle’s creative Ouseburn Valley.
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.
Free Trade Inn
0.9 km
A historic riverside pub in Newcastle offering craft beers, stunning Tyne views, and a warm, lively atmosphere all day long.
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.
Lady Greys
1.0 km
Cozy, classic Newcastle pub with excellent real ales, friendly staff, and a lively late-night atmosphere on Shakespeare 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.
The Exchange
1.0 km
Discover The Exchange, Newcastle’s speakeasy-style cocktail bar with a cozy alcove, lively atmosphere, and expertly crafted drinks in the city center.
The Punch Bowl
1.0 km
Jesmond's wood-paneled gem: quirky wines, world tapas, epic roasts, and a lively vibe in a classic pub setting.
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.
Colonel Porter's Emporium
1.1 km
Newcastle's 1920s explorer's paradise: botanical gardens, vintage cocktails, live music, and hidden discos in historic Milburn House.
The Wobbly Duck
1.1 km
A cozy, quirky micropub in Newcastle’s Old Eldon Square, famed for its eclectic ales and welcoming atmosphere.
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
1.1 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.
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.
TheCUT Newcastle
1.2 km
Discover Newcastle’s vibrant alternative nightclub with themed indie, rock, and disco nights in a cozy, unpretentious setting.
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.
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.
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.
The Social Club
1.3 km
Experience Newcastle’s vibrant nightlife at The Social Club, where music, cocktails, and dancing come alive until the early hours.
Sinners
1.3 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
1.9 km
Newcastle’s iconic four-floor nightclub blending rich LGBTQ+ history with vibrant, inclusive nightlife and dynamic music scenes.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Relaxing
- Scenic
- Lively
- Unique
- Casual
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Industrial Designs
- Modern Designs
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Art & Design
- Parks & Gardens
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Panoramas
- Sunset Spots
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Aesthetic Corners
- Architectural Shots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Locally Managed
- Leave-No-Trace Critical
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Weekend Getaway
- Festival / Event Nearby
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
