Mean-Eyed Cat: Newcastle’s Vibrant Microbrewery Bar
A vibrant micropub in Newcastle offering an evolving selection of craft beers, ciders, and lively community events in a quirky, intimate setting.
Mean-Eyed Cat is a small, independent micropub located at 1 St Thomas' Street in Newcastle upon Tyne. Renowned for its ever-changing selection of six cask and eight keg beers, sourced locally and internationally, it offers a lively yet intimate atmosphere with a colorful, quirky vibe. The bar also features a curated range of ciders, wines, spirits, and soft drinks, complemented by occasional street food pop-ups and friendly, knowledgeable staff.
A brief summary to Mean-Eyed Cat
- 1 St Thomas' St, Newcastle upon Tyne, NE1 4LE, GB
- +441912220952
- Visit website
- Duration: 1 to 3 hours
- Mid ranged
-
Indoor
- Mobile reception: 5 out of 5
- Monday 12 pm-10 pm
- Tuesday 12 pm-10 pm
- Wednesday 12 pm-10 pm
- Thursday 12 pm-10:30 pm
- Friday 12 pm-10:30 pm
- Saturday 12 pm-10:30 pm
- Sunday 1 pm-10 pm
Local tips
- Visit on Thursdays to enjoy street food pop-ups featuring diverse cuisines alongside your drinks.
- Try a flight of rotating cask and keg beers to sample the bar’s varied and evolving selection.
- Check social media for the latest beer line-up and special events before you go.
- Arrive early on weekends to secure seating in this small but popular venue.
- Ask the friendly bar staff for recommendations tailored to your taste preferences.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Trash Bins
- Information Boards
Mean-Eyed Cat location weather suitability
-
Any Weather
-
Rain / Wet Weather
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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about Mean-Eyed Cat
A Compact Hub of Craft Beer Excellence
Nestled just left of Newcastle city centre on St Thomas' Street, Mean-Eyed Cat is a micropub that champions quality and variety in a small, intimate setting. Since opening in 2018 in a former newsagent’s shop opposite Haymarket bus station, it has become a beloved destination for beer enthusiasts. The bar offers six rotating cask ales and eight keg beers, carefully selected from local North East breweries as well as national and international producers. This dynamic lineup ensures a fresh and evolving tasting experience that appeals to both casual drinkers and connoisseurs.A Celebration of Local and Global Brewing
Mean-Eyed Cat takes pride in showcasing the cream of the UK’s burgeoning craft beer scene alongside international favorites. The keg beers highlight innovative styles such as New England IPAs and stouts, while the cask ales reflect traditional brewing craftsmanship. Complementing the beer selection is a well-curated assortment of up to six traditional still ciders served from the cellar, alongside a modest but quality range of wines, Mexican spirits, and cocktails. The bar’s commitment to quality extends to soft drinks, featuring premium mixers and juices.Atmosphere and Character
Despite its modest size, the bar exudes a quirky, colorful ambiance with a fun, welcoming vibe. The interior is designed with a handcrafted feel, decorated with playful touches and a nod to local culture. The friendly and knowledgeable bar staff add to the charm, guiding visitors through the extensive beer list with enthusiasm and expertise. Small seating areas inside and outside the venue provide cozy spots for socializing or relaxing.Community and Events
Mean-Eyed Cat fosters a strong community spirit with regular events and street food pop-ups, especially on Thursdays, featuring diverse cuisines such as Mexican, Indian, and Chinese street food. These events enhance the social atmosphere, making the bar a lively hub for locals and visitors alike. The bar’s links to Newcastle’s craft brewing heritage and its recognition as CAMRA Newcastle Pub of the Year 2023 and Cider Tyneside Pub of the Year 2025 underscore its significance in the local scene.Practical Details and Accessibility
Open Monday to Wednesday from noon to 10pm, Thursday to Saturday until 10:30pm, and Sundays from 1pm to 10pm, Mean-Eyed Cat offers convenient hours for after-work drinks or weekend gatherings. The venue is easily accessible, located a short walk from Haymarket Metro and bus stations, with good disabled access to the main bar and toilets. While the bar does not serve full meals, crisps and bagged snacks are available, and the nearby street food vendors provide ample culinary variety.Why Visit Mean-Eyed Cat?
For those seeking a microbrewery experience that combines quality, variety, and a quirky, intimate setting, Mean-Eyed Cat stands out as a must-visit in Newcastle. Its dedication to craft beer culture, community engagement, and friendly atmosphere make it a unique gem in the city’s vibrant bar scene.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
King's Gate
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Newcastle University's contemporary student services hub with striking glazed architecture on Barras Bridge.
1914 Monument
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A stirring World War I memorial in Newcastle honoring local Fusiliers with evocative bronze sculpture and historic military symbolism.
The Response - Renwick War Memorial
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Newcastle and District War Memorial
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A Portland stone tribute to courage, unveiled in 1923 and crowned by a bronze Saint George.
Lord Armstrong Memorial
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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)
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Explore Newcastle upon Tyne with Iles Tours, where expert guides unveil the city's rich history and culture through unforgettable experiences.
Old Library Building
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Claremont Tower
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The Tower Cafe Ltd
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Grey St
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Newcastle's finest street—a sweeping curve of neoclassical elegance and cultural heritage.
Morden Tower
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Blackfriars Medieval Friary
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Oriental Garden
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Experience the serene beauty of the Oriental Garden in Newcastle upon Tyne, a peaceful escape filled with lush greenery and vibrant flora.
Herber Tower
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Durham Tower
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Medieval stone sentinel guarding Newcastle's ancient western walls since the 13th century.
Unmissable attractions to see
Civic Centre Gardens
0.3 km
A peaceful urban oasis blending nature, art, and heritage in the heart of Newcastle’s Civic Centre.
Fenwick Newcastle
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Newcastle’s iconic five-floor department store blending historic charm, luxury shopping, and a renowned food hall in the city centre.
Old Eldon Square
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Newcastle’s premier indoor shopping centre blending rich heritage with modern retail and vibrant dining under one roof.
Hatton Gallery
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Farrell Centre
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The Strawberry
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Eldon Bowling
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Eight-lane ten-pin bowling in Newcastle’s Eldon Leisure Centre, perfect for families, friends, and casual fun in the heart of the city.
TK Maxx
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Discover unbeatable deals on designer fashion and homeware at TK Maxx, Monument Mall’s vibrant department store in Newcastle.
Newcastle upon Tyne - City Centre
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Discover Newcastle upon Tyne City Centre: where rich history meets vibrant urban life along the scenic River Tyne.
Grey's Monument
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Discover the historic Grey's Monument in Newcastle upon Tyne, a stunning tribute to the Duke of Grey amidst the vibrant city life.
St Andrew's Church, Newcastle upon Tyne
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Leazes Park
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Newcastle’s oldest Victorian park, a tranquil green retreat with a scenic lake and rich heritage in the city centre.
Great North Museum: Hancock
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My freedom Tours
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Discover Newcastle’s history and culture at your own pace with My Freedom Tours’ innovative self-guided video experiences.
Escape Key Newcastle
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Newcastle's premier escape room destination with immersive themes, creative puzzles, and exceptional service overlooking historic grounds.
Essential places to dine
Red Mezze
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El Coto
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Fuego
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George's Fish Shack, Newcastle
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Authentic British fish and chips in the heart of Newcastle’s lively Eldon Square shopping district.
The Botanist Newcastle
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Discover The Botanist Newcastle: a lush botanical bar and restaurant blending inventive cocktails, seasonal food, and live music in a secret garden setting.
Chaophraya
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Elegant Thai dining with rooftop views over Grey’s Monument, perfect for special occasions and vibrant city experiences.
No28
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Discover the vibrant nightlife at No28 in Newcastle – where tapas meets cocktails in an unforgettable bar and nightclub experience.
Zaap Thai Street Food Newcastle
0.5 km
Experience the vibrant flavors and lively atmosphere of Thai street food right in the heart of Newcastle’s city center.
Côte Newcastle
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Turtle Bay Newcastle
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Gaucho Newcastle
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Lola Jeans
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Fat Hippo Newcastle
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The Muddler
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Pani's Cafe
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Eldon Garden Shopping Centre.
0.2 km
Discover the bustling Eldon Garden Shopping Centre in Newcastle upon Tyne, where shopping, dining, and entertainment come together in a vibrant atmosphere.
The Geordie Witch
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Discover unique local gifts and mystical treasures at The Geordie Witch, a charming and welcoming shop in Newcastle’s Eldon Square.
Time Antiques
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Discover authentic antiques and collectibles with expert care at Time Antiques, a historic gem in Newcastle’s vibrant Antique Centre.
Coast
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Contemporary feminine fashion and occasion wear in Newcastle's vibrant city centre shopping district.
Elula
0.2 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
0.2 km
Affordable books, arts, crafts, and toys in the heart of Newcastle’s bustling Eldon Square Shopping Centre.
The One World Shop
0.2 km
Discover ethically sourced gifts and natural foods in a historic church setting, supporting fair trade and sustainability in Newcastle upon Tyne.
The Vintage Scene Newcastle
0.2 km
Discover timeless vintage fashion treasures at The Vintage Scene Newcastle, a curated boutique for eclectic style lovers in the city center.
Menkind
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Discover quirky gifts and gadgets for men at Menkind, nestled in Newcastle’s iconic Eldon Square shopping centre.
Be More Geek
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Explore a treasure trove of pop culture collectibles and geek merchandise in the heart of Newcastle’s Eldon Square shopping centre.
Friday Vintage
0.3 km
Award-winning vintage boutique celebrating curated fashion from the 1940s to 2000s in historic Old Eldon Square.
Jay's Boutique & Gifts
0.4 km
Discover bespoke tailoring and unique gifts combined in a charming boutique at Newcastle’s Upper Princess Square.
Urban Outfitters
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Discover stylish fashion and eclectic homewares at Urban Outfitters Newcastle, a vibrant hub of creativity and contemporary lifestyle on Grainger Street.
Waceland
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Geordie Gifts
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Mean-Eyed Cat
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A vibrant micropub in Newcastle offering an evolving selection of craft beers, ciders, and lively community events in a quirky, intimate setting.
Bar Loco
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Mother Mercy
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Nightclubs & after hour spots
Cosmic Ballroom
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Popworld - Newcastle
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World HQ
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Experience Newcastle’s iconic nightlife at Greys Club, where vibrant music, a stylish terrace, and lively crowds create unforgettable late-night memories.
SOHO ROOMS | Newcastle
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Flares - Newcastle
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Loca Loca | Newcastle
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TheCUT Newcastle
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Powerhouse
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Digital
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Experience cutting-edge nightlife with superior sound and vibrant energy at Digital, Newcastle’s premier clubbing destination in Times Square.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Quirky
- Lively
- Fun-filled
- Casual
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Colorful Aesthetics
- Rustic Designs
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Aesthetic Corners
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Locally Managed
- Public-Transport Accessible
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Festival / Event Nearby
- Weekend Getaway
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Adult Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- LGBT Friendly
- Senior Friendly
