Blackfriars Restaurant, Newcastle upon Tyne
Dine in a 13th-century friary refectory with modern British food, local brews, and a warm, bustling atmosphere in the heart of Newcastle.
Housed in a 13th-century Dominican friary refectory, Blackfriars Restaurant is one of the UK’s oldest purpose-built dining rooms. This atmospheric Newcastle venue blends medieval architecture with a modern British menu, serving seasonal dishes and local brews in a warm, historic setting. Heavy wooden beams, stone walls, and a lively buzz make it a standout choice for a special meal in the city centre.
A brief summary to Blackfriars Restaurant
- Friars St, Newcastle upon Tyne, NE1 4XN, GB
- +441912615945
- Visit website
- Duration: 1.5 to 3 hours
- Mid ranged
-
Mixed
- Mobile reception: 5 out of 5
- Monday 12 pm-2:30 pm
- Tuesday 12 pm-2:30 pm
- Wednesday 12 pm-2:30 pm
- Thursday 12 pm-2:30 pm
- Friday 12 pm-2:30 pm
- Saturday 12 pm-2:30 pm
- Sunday 12 pm-4 pm
Local tips
- Book ahead, especially for weekends and evenings, as the restaurant is popular for both locals and visitors.
- Try the house-brewed beer; it’s a distinctive feature and pairs well with the hearty British dishes.
- Visit during the day to fully appreciate the historic architecture and natural light in the dining room.
- Consider the courtyard garden or separate bar area if you prefer a slightly quieter or more casual setting.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Drinking Water
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
Blackfriars Restaurant location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Rain / Wet Weather
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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about Blackfriars Restaurant
A medieval dining room reborn
Dating back to the early 1200s, Blackfriars began life as the refectory for a Dominican friary, making it one of the oldest purpose-built dining spaces in the UK. Today, it’s a central part of Newcastle’s dining scene, where centuries of history meet contemporary British cuisine. The ground-floor restaurant is framed by exposed stone walls, thick wooden beams, and deep panelling, all contributing to a rich, Olde England atmosphere. Though the interior leans into a traditional, almost theatrical ‘historic’ aesthetic, the space remains welcoming and accessible, not museum-like or overly formal.Food and drink with local roots
The menu at Blackfriars focuses on modern British cooking, drawing on seasonal produce from nearby farms and markets. Dishes range from hearty classics to more inventive takes, including regional favourites like pan haggerty. Seafood features prominently, with oysters, prawn cocktails, and seafood bisques appearing alongside robust meat options such as fillet steak. Vegetarians are well catered for, and the kitchen often turns out strong starters and desserts, like a dense Basque-style cheesecake with seasonal fruit. The drinks list is a highlight, with a wide selection of wines, cocktails, and house-brewed beers, including a refreshing pale ale that pairs well with the food.Atmosphere and service style
Blackfriars has a warm, bustling atmosphere, especially during lunch and dinner services. The space is geared toward both intimate meals and larger parties, with a separate bar and a courtyard garden adding to the overall hospitality complex. Service is generally cheerful and efficient, delivered by a young, attentive team, though the pace and tone can shift depending on how busy the restaurant is. The soundtrack tends toward upbeat, beat-led pop, which some find at odds with the historic surroundings but others enjoy as part of the lively, modern energy. The overall vibe is convivial rather than hushed, making it suitable for celebrations, business lunches, and relaxed dinners alike.A place with character and context
Beyond the food, Blackfriars stands out for its unique setting and sense of place. It’s not just a restaurant in an old building; it’s a dining room that has been used for communal meals for over 800 years. That continuity adds a subtle layer of significance, especially when seated beneath ancient beams or near original stonework. The restaurant is part of a larger group that runs several well-regarded Newcastle venues, giving it both local credibility and a slightly corporate operational feel. Still, the historic fabric and central location ensure it remains a distinctive and memorable choice in the city’s dining landscape.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Blackfriars Medieval Friary
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Medieval Dominican friary where kings once stayed, now a living centre of craft, culture, and cuisine.
Durham Tower
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Medieval stone sentinel guarding Newcastle's ancient western walls since the 13th century.
Oriental Garden
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Herber Tower
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Morden Tower
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St John the Baptist Church
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Richard Grainger Memorial Fountain
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New Bridge Street, Newcastle-upon-Tyne
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Newcastle and District War Memorial
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Iles Tours (Iles Group Ltd)
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Newcastle city walls
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The Black Gate
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Newcastle Keep
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Unmissable attractions to see
Black Friars Postern Gate Plaque
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YuMe World
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The Gate
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Tyne Theatre & Opera House
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Ever Tower
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A Hadrian's Wall Milecastle Plaque
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My freedom Tours
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Escape Key Newcastle
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Grainger St
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Grainger Market
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Bigg Market
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Historic medieval market turned vibrant nightlife hub with over 30 listed buildings in the heart of Newcastle upon Tyne.
Essential places to dine
Blackfriars Restaurant
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Dine in a 13th-century friary refectory with modern British food, local brews, and a warm, bustling atmosphere in the heart of Newcastle.
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
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Nightclubs & after hour spots
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For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Scenic
- Lively
- Entertaining
- Unique
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Rustic Designs
- Vintage Styles
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- Heritage Neighborhoods
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Architectural Shots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Day Trip
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Business Friendly
