World Headquarters (World HQ) — Curtis Mayfield House, Newcastle
A multi‑level warehouse club and arts hub in Curtis Mayfield House with a heavy sound, creative studios above and a grassroots nightlife spirit.
World Headquarters (World HQ) is Newcastle’s long-running, multi‑level club and arts venue housed in Curtis Mayfield House on Carliol Square. Known for a strong soundsystem, varied club nights and creative upper‑floor studios and hire spaces, WHQ blends nightlife with community arts activity in a converted warehouse setting close to the city centre.
A brief summary to World HQ
- Curtis Mayfield House, Carliol Square, East, Pilgrim St, Newcastle upon Tyne, NE1 6UF, GB
- Visit website
- Duration: 2 to 6 hours
- Mid ranged
-
Indoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
- Wednesday 12 am-12 am
- Thursday 12 am-12 am
- Friday 12 am-12 am
- Saturday 12 am-12 am
- Sunday 12 am-12 am
Local tips
- Check the event listing in advance because nights vary widely in music style and ticketing — some events use advance tickets or guest lists.
- Dress for dancing and comfort; the main room is loud and warm while lounges provide cooler, seated breaks.
- If you’re interested in the creative side, enquire about studio hire or daytime events on the upper floors.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
World HQ location weather suitability
-
Any Weather
-
Clear Skies
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Rain / Wet Weather
Discover more about World HQ
Industrial shell, soulful heart
World Headquarters occupies Curtis Mayfield House, a six‑storey former warehouse repurposed as a club, studio space and arts hub. The building’s industrial bones — exposed brick, tall windows and high ceilings — provide a raw backdrop for a layout that mixes low, intimate lounge areas with a cavernous dancefloor and tiered DJ positions. The name Curtis Mayfield House signals a conscious cultural rebranding of the site and reflects the venue’s longstanding connection to soul, electronic and underground music scenes.Sound, light and evening character
Inside, the focus is on immersive audio and lighting: a powerful PA and thoughtfully angled speakers mean the music sits full and present, while programmed lights and occasional visuals turn the space into a kinetic stage. The ground floor often functions as the main club room where DJs and headline acts anchor nights, while smaller bar and chill spaces let crowds gather between sets. The sensory mix—deep bass, warm stage lighting, the murmur of conversation and the clink of glasses—defines the club’s nocturnal identity.Creative floors above the club
Above the club, WHQ has developed a cluster of creative enterprises: studios, photographic spaces and offices that host rehearsals, shoots and small events. These upper floors create a day‑time personality distinct from the club below, where photographers, producers and small creative businesses work out of warehouse‑scale rooms fitted for shoots and equipment hire. That layered program — nightlife under creative studios — gives the building a 24‑hour cultural presence within the city.A neighbourhood anchor with a rooted ethos
WHQ’s history traces a deliberate effort to run a safe, inclusive space for diverse musical tastes and mixed crowds. The club’s programming spans local DJs, touring electronic acts and themed nights, and the venue has evolved into a meeting point for communities centred on alternative club culture, creativity and self‑expression. The atmosphere tends toward warm and communal rather than slick or VIP‑centric: a working club with a grassroots sensibility.Practical features and visitor experience
Expect a multiroom experience: a loud main room for dancing, quieter lounge bar areas and the occasional pop‑up or exhibition in ancillary spaces. Signage and staff are geared to busy event nights; the building’s warehouse layout means circulation can feel snug when rooms are full. Food and drink offerings are generally modest and event‑dependent, with a focus on beverages and light snacks rather than full dining. The structure’s vertical layout also means there are stairways and level changes between floors.Continuity, adaptability and local contribution
World Headquarters has repeatedly repurposed old industrial spaces to suit shifting needs — from club to multiuse arts building — and retains a reputation for programming that supports local talent alongside visiting artists. The presence of hireable studios and equipment services above the club reinforces WHQ’s role as an infrastructure provider for Newcastle’s creative community, ensuring the venue remains relevant beyond any single night or season.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
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Unmissable attractions to see
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High Bridge
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TK Maxx
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Central Arcade
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Essential places to dine
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Pani's Cafe
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21
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Corner Shop
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Earl and Coco
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Jay's Boutique & Gifts
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Urban Outfitters
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The Yesterday Society Vintage Boutique
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
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Nightclubs & after hour spots
World HQ
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A multi‑level warehouse club and arts hub in Curtis Mayfield House with a heavy sound, creative studios above and a grassroots nightlife spirit.
Greys Club
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SOHO ROOMS | Newcastle
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Flares - Newcastle
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Popworld - Newcastle
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Loca Loca | Newcastle
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TROPICANA NEWCASTLE
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Tup Tup Palace
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TheCUT Newcastle
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Bohemia Newcastle
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The Social Club
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Sinners
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Cosmic Ballroom
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Digital
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Powerhouse
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For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Lively
- Fun-filled
- Unique
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Industrial Designs
- Retro Vibes
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- Art & Design
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Panoramas
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Selfie Spots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Locally Managed
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Nightlife
- Weekend Getaway
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Adults Only
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- LGBT Friendly
