Colonel Porter's Emporium
Newcastle's 1920s explorer's paradise: botanical gardens, vintage cocktails, live music, and hidden discos in historic Milburn House.
Step into the whimsical world of Colonel Porter's Emporium, a 1920s-themed haven in Newcastle's bustling city centre. This eclectic bar and restaurant blends botanical gardens, secret discos, rhum and gin bars, and a tavern of wonders with vintage cocktails, live music nightly, and hearty fare like burgers and Sunday lunches. Housed in historic Milburn House on Dean Street, it offers cosy corners for secrets, master mixologists crafting tipples, and an adventurous vibe perfect for nights out or private celebrations.
A brief summary to Colonel Porter's Emporium
- Ground Floor, Milburn House, Dean St, Newcastle upon Tyne, NE1 1LF, GB
- +441912617600
- Visit website
- Duration: 1 to 3 hours
- Mid ranged
-
Indoor
- Mobile reception: 5 out of 5
- Monday 5 pm-12 am
- Tuesday 5 pm-12 am
- Wednesday 5 pm-12 am
- Thursday 12 pm-12 am
- Friday 12 pm-1 am
- Saturday 12 pm-1 am
- Sunday 12 pm-12 am
Local tips
- Book ahead for live music nights on weekends when the secret disco and DJ sets draw big crowds.
- Opt for the tipsy afternoon tea for a boozy twist on classics, available from noon Thursday to Sunday.
- Seek out the rhum bar for rare tastings and masterclasses led by expert mixologists.
- Visit the botanical garden early afternoon for serene sunlight and lighter bites before evening energy ramps up.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Free Wifi
Colonel Porter's Emporium location weather suitability
-
Any Weather
Discover more about Colonel Porter's Emporium
Emporium of Explorer's Tales
Nestled in the historic Milburn House at the foot of Dean Street, Colonel Porter's Emporium channels the spirit of the famed explorer Colonel Porter, who legend says brewed Newcastle Brown Ale with Chief Chemist Archie Jones. This multi-roomed venue revives tales of adventure through its themed spaces: a tavern celebrating local ales, a rhum bar stocked with rare spirits, and hidden nooks evoking forgotten expeditions. The air hums with the clink of glasses and whispers of old-world intrigue, drawing you into a narrative woven from Newcastle's brewing heritage.Botanical Garden Retreat
Escape the urban pulse into the lush internal botanical garden, a verdant oasis where sunlight filters through glass ceilings onto cascading plants and twinkling lights. This sunlit haven serves as a perfect daytime perch for afternoon teas laced with cocktails or relaxed lunches. Surrounding the greenery, eclectic décor—vintage maps, brass fixtures, and quirky artifacts—blends 1920s chic with modern whimsy, creating a serene yet playful atmosphere amid the city's energy.Cocktail Alchemy and Mixology Mastery
At the heart of the emporium, master mixologists wield shakers like alchemists, conjuring vintage cocktails from Prohibition-era recipes alongside innovative rhum and gin creations. The bar lineup features house-infused spirits, tipsy teas bubbling with bubbly, and flights of Newcastle Brown Ale in its traditional form. Each drink tells a story, paired with small plates of belly-busting burgers, vegan options, and hearty Sunday roasts that fuel late-night revelry.Live Rhythms and Secret Shenanigans
Music pulses through the emporium every night, from open mic sessions midweek to live bands and international DJs igniting Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays. Discover the secret disco tucked away behind velvet curtains, where beats throb and dancers sway under glowing chandeliers. Cosy corners invite intimate chats, while larger spaces host private hires for hen dos, birthdays, or weddings, transforming the venue into a personalised playground of festivities.Eclectic Spaces for Every Mood
Wander through the tavern of wonders, where bold colors and Instagrammable backdrops—think floral arches, neon signs, and explorer memorabilia—frame every corner. The outdoor terrace extends the magic in warmer months, offering al fresco dining until late. Whether sipping a solitary rhum in the gin bar or joining the lively crowd, the emporium's layout encourages exploration, blending intimacy with exuberance in Newcastle's vibrant nightlife scene.Gateway to Quayside Nights
Positioned as a launchpad for evenings on Newcastle Quayside, Colonel Porter's fuses historic charm with contemporary flair. Its doors swing open from noon on weekends, serving food until 8pm and drinks till the wee hours, ensuring seamless transitions from daytime indulgence to nocturnal adventures. This jewel in the city's crown captures the Toon's fizzing bar culture, where every visit uncovers new layers of delight.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
The Black Gate
0.1 km
Medieval fortress gateway where Newcastle's story began, now fully accessible with rich exhibitions.
Newcastle Keep
0.1 km
Climb 99 steps through four centuries of medieval power and emerge onto rooftop views that define Newcastle.
Castle Wall Well
0.1 km
A medieval well marking Newcastle's 13th-century defensive walls and urban heritage.
The Guildhall
0.2 km
Discover Newcastle’s historic Guildhall, a stunning 17th-century civic landmark rich in architecture and medieval heritage.
The High Level Bridge
0.3 km
A pioneering double-deck Victorian bridge uniting rail and road across the River Tyne, symbolizing Newcastle’s industrial heritage.
Quayside
0.3 km
Quayside is a dynamic riverside district where iconic bridges meet vibrant culture, blending industrial heritage with modern art and lively waterfront life.
Newcastle city walls
0.3 km
Medieval stone fortifications protecting a border town from Scottish invasion, now a historic monument woven into Newcastle's urban landscape.
The Custom House Plaque
0.3 km
A historic marker on Newcastle’s Quayside commemorating the 1766 Custom House and the city’s maritime trade heritage.
Grey St
0.4 km
Newcastle's finest street—a sweeping curve of neoclassical elegance and cultural heritage.
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.
Iles Tours (Iles Group Ltd)
0.5 km
Explore Newcastle upon Tyne with Iles Tours, where expert guides unveil the city's rich history and culture through unforgettable experiences.
Mermaid
0.6 km
Discover the Mermaid, a historic symbol of Newcastle’s maritime heritage, set amidst the vibrant and scenic Quayside waterfront.
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.
Newcastle and District War Memorial
0.6 km
A Portland stone tribute to courage, unveiled in 1923 and crowned by a bronze Saint George.
Blackfriars Medieval Friary
0.7 km
Medieval Dominican friary where kings once stayed, now a living centre of craft, culture, and cuisine.
Unmissable attractions to see
Site of Anglo-Saxon Church
0.1 km
Explore Newcastle’s ancient heart where Roman roots, Anglo-Saxon heritage, and medieval stone keep converge in Castle Garth’s historic site.
Castle Garth & The Black Gate
0.1 km
Explore Newcastle’s medieval gateway, The Black Gate, a historic fortress entrance turned vibrant urban hub steeped in centuries of history.
Newcastle Cathedral
0.1 km
Discover over 900 years of history, stunning stained glass, and the iconic Lantern Tower at Newcastle Cathedral, a spiritual and cultural beacon in the city center.
Newcastle Ghost Walks - Haunted City Tours
0.1 km
Explore Newcastle’s haunted streets and historic landmarks on immersive ghost tours filled with chilling tales and authentic paranormal encounters.
Castle Garth
0.1 km
Explore the medieval heart of Newcastle with panoramic views from the iconic Castle Keep and historic Black Gate at Castle Garth.
Side Photographic Gallery
0.1 km
Discover powerful documentary photography in a historic, intimate gallery space beneath Newcastle’s Tyne Bridge.
Historic England North East & Yorkshire
0.2 km
Explore Newcastle’s finest Jacobean merchants’ houses, famed for Bessie Surtees’ romantic 1772 elopement and richly preserved period interiors.
All Saints Church
0.2 km
Discover Newcastle's All Saints Church, a unique Georgian landmark with England’s only elliptical nave and a vibrant Presbyterian heritage.
Long Stairs
0.2 km
Historic medieval stairway linking Newcastle’s Quayside to the city centre, rich in legends and scenic views.
John Grundy Local Heroes Plaque
0.2 km
Celebrate Newcastle’s rich heritage with the John Grundy Local Heroes Plaque along Hadrian’s Wall Path, honoring a beloved TV historian and cultural advocate.
Lit & Phil Library
0.3 km
Discover Newcastle’s historic Lit & Phil Library, a grand neoclassical haven with over 200,000 books and a vibrant cultural scene.
High Bridge
0.3 km
Walk Newcastle’s oldest route from the Castle Keep to the River Tyne along High Bridge, a historic street at the heart of the city’s medieval core.
The Glamorous Owl
0.3 km
Discover Newcastle’s artisan jewellery boutique and creative workshop hub nestled in the historic Old George Yard.
The Stand Comedy Club
0.3 km
Experience Newcastle’s premier comedy venue with sharp wit, lively performances, and a welcoming bar atmosphere at The Stand Comedy Club.
Trinity House
0.3 km
Discover Newcastle’s maritime heritage and medieval charm at Trinity House, a historic gem on the quayside with centuries of seafaring stories.
Essential places to dine
Kaltur Wine Bar & Restaurant
0.0 km
Authentic Spanish tapas and wine bar offering cozy, intimate dining with an open kitchen in the heart of Newcastle upon Tyne.
Prima Restaurant
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Experience authentic Italian flavors and warm hospitality beneath Newcastle’s historic High Level Bridge at Prima Restaurant.
Simla Restaurant
0.1 km
Experience authentic Indian flavors with a modern touch in Newcastle’s warm and elegant Simla Restaurant, perfect for romantic and lively dining.
Babucho
0.1 km
Stylish Italian brasserie in Newcastle offering classic dishes, a lively atmosphere, and attentive service in a chic city-center setting.
Miller & Carter Newcastle
0.1 km
Savor expertly aged British steaks in a stylish, welcoming setting at Miller & Carter Newcastle on Mosley Street.
Portofino Restaurant
0.1 km
Experience authentic Italian cuisine in a stunning Victorian setting with warm hospitality and vibrant atmosphere in Newcastle.
Native Cave Restaurant And Bar
0.1 km
A cozy Newcastle seafood haven famed for its irresistible seafood boil and authentic, flavorful dishes in a casual setting.
The French Quarter
0.1 km
Experience authentic French cuisine and an exceptional wine selection in a chic bistro nestled within Newcastle’s historic Westgate Road arches.
Uno's Trattoria
0.2 km
Discover authentic Italian flavors and generous portions in a lively, welcoming setting at Uno's Trattoria in Newcastle.
House of Tides
0.2 km
Michelin-starred fine dining in a historic 16th-century merchant’s house on Newcastle’s scenic quayside, blending rustic charm with modern British cuisine.
Aveika
0.2 km
Innovative Japanese cuisine and vibrant nightlife converge at Aveika, Newcastle's stylish Quayside hotspot for dining and entertainment.
Zucchini Pasta Bar
0.2 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
0.2 km
Elegant fine dining in Newcastle’s historic Victorian setting, blending classic charm with modern British cuisine and attentive service.
Barluga
0.2 km
A vibrant gastropub on Newcastle’s historic Grey Street, blending modern British cuisine with a welcoming atmosphere and stylish setting.
The Quayside - JD Wetherspoon
0.3 km
Historic riverside pub in Dove’s Warehouse serving good-value breakfasts, meals and a broad drinks list in a roomy, accessible setting on Newcastle’s Quayside.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
UpSide Down Presents
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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
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Discover authentic Geordie treasures in Newcastle’s smallest independent souvenir shop nestled under a historic railway arch.
Quayside News
0.1 km
Discover Quayside News, your charming convenience store in Newcastle, perfect for grabbing snacks, drinks, and local treats while exploring the Quayside.
Earl and Coco
0.3 km
Quirky treasures and artisan delights await in this hidden gem of Newcastle's Grainger Town, where every find tells a story.
Retro , Vintage Clothing Newcastle.
0.3 km
Discover timeless style and unique vintage finds at Retro Newcastle, your go-to boutique for retro clothing in the heart of the city.
Corner Shop
0.3 km
Independent city-centre shop offering curated everyday essentials and gifts on historic Pilgrim Street.
Living Essential
0.4 km
Grainger Street's go-to for stylish, affordable homewares that make city living cozy and practical in Newcastle's heart.
Garms Newcastle
0.4 km
Small, curated vintage clothing shop on Grainger Street, blending durable classics with street-ready retro finds.
Phillips & Wilde
0.4 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.
Soul Rebel (Newcastle)
0.4 km
Discover a unique fusion of stylish apparel and holistic wellness at Soul Rebel, Newcastle's premier destination for fashion and self-care.
Cath Kidston
0.4 km
Floral fantasies and vintage vibes on Newcastle's Grainger Street—where British charm meets everyday elegance in bags, clothes, and home treasures.
The Yesterday Society Vintage Boutique
0.4 km
Discover vintage treasures and retro style at The Yesterday Society, a charming boutique nestled in Newcastle’s historic Grainger Market.
Analog
0.5 km
Curated vintage and second‑hand clothing tucked into Alley 3 of Newcastle’s Grainger Market — small stall, big finds.
Newcastle Gifts
0.5 km
Discover authentic Geordie souvenirs, local art, and NUFC treasures at this charming Neville Street gem opposite Central Station—your perfect Toon memento stop.
Box it up gifts
0.5 km
Discover unique souvenirs and locally crafted gifts at Box It Up Gifts in Newcastle upon Tyne, a must-visit for every traveler.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Colonel Porter's Emporium
0.0 km
Newcastle's 1920s explorer's paradise: botanical gardens, vintage cocktails, live music, and hidden discos in historic Milburn House.
Blackie Boy
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Historic Newcastle bar with cosy vibes, free jukebox anthems, cheap drinks deals, and late-night energy in Groat Market's lively heart.
All Seeing Eye.
0.2 km
Discover Newcastle's speakeasy secret: art deco cocktails behind a hidden door on Groat Market, blending historic intrigue with masterful mixology.
ChachaBuchi
0.2 km
Rustic glamour meets vibrant nightlife in Newcastle’s chic cocktail bar with alpine-inspired cuisine and lively entertainment.
Mother Mercy
0.3 km
Newcastle's speakeasy secret: inventive cocktails via roulette wheel in a historic Cloth Market hideaway, blending mixology mastery with intimate Mediterranean chic.
Alvinos Bar
0.3 km
A lively Italian-owned bar in Newcastle with creative cocktails, craft brews, live DJs, and a welcoming multi-floor setting on Pilgrim Street.
Revolution Newcastle Upon Tyne
0.3 km
Experience vibrant nightlife and handcrafted cocktails in Newcastle’s stunning former bank with soaring ceilings and marble pillars.
The Market Lane
0.3 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.
All Bar One Newcastle
0.3 km
Stylish Grey Street bar serving coffee by day and cocktails by night, with tapas and wines in Newcastle's buzzing heart.
Jalou
0.3 km
Experience Newcastle’s chic cocktail haven where Parisian glamour meets hip hop beats and creative mixology.
Lady Greys
0.3 km
Cozy, classic Newcastle pub with excellent real ales, friendly staff, and a lively late-night atmosphere on Shakespeare Street.
The Head of Steam Quayside
0.4 km
Riverside pub haven pouring world-class craft beers, vegan feasts, and games beside Newcastle's Tyne Bridge and cultural gems.
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 Mushroom Bar
0.4 km
A compact, budget-friendly club-bar on Grainger Street that keeps late-night DJs, drink deals and a party crowd at its heart.
Urban Garden Newcastle
0.5 km
A relaxed container-style beer garden on Newcastle’s Quayside—festoon lights, craft taps and riverside atmosphere for groups and sunset drinks.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
SOHO ROOMS | Newcastle
0.1 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.
Tup Tup Palace
0.1 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
0.2 km
Discover Newcastle’s vibrant alternative nightclub with themed indie, rock, and disco nights in a cozy, unpretentious setting.
Flares - Newcastle
0.2 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.
Greys Club
0.2 km
Experience Newcastle’s iconic nightlife at Greys Club, where vibrant music, a stylish terrace, and lively crowds create unforgettable late-night memories.
TROPICANA NEWCASTLE
0.2 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
0.2 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
0.2 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
0.2 km
Experience Newcastle’s vibrant nightlife at The Social Club, where music, cocktails, and dancing come alive until the early hours.
Popworld - Newcastle
0.3 km
A neon-soaked pop party on Newcastle’s Bigg Market—cheap drinks, nostalgic anthems and a packed dancefloor for late-night revelry.
World HQ
0.4 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.
Sinners
0.5 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.
Digital
0.7 km
Experience cutting-edge nightlife with superior sound and vibrant energy at Digital, Newcastle’s premier clubbing destination in Times Square.
Cosmic Ballroom
0.7 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.
Powerhouse
0.8 km
Newcastle’s iconic four-floor nightclub blending rich LGBTQ+ history with vibrant, inclusive nightlife and dynamic music scenes.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Fun-filled
- Lively
- Entertaining
- Quirky
- Unique
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Colorful Aesthetics
- Retro Vibes
- Vintage Styles
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Art & Design
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Selfie Spots
- Aesthetic Corners
- Colorful Backdrops
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
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly