Here’s to the venues that we’ve highlighted in the North East, who tirelessly provided entertainment for generations, only to fall wayside either thanks to time or progress.
From weekend’s away in Whitley Bay to those decadent nights in the ‘90s and early ‘00s when DJ’s were considered superstars as the bars churches to throw shapes in - to quote the poet Tim Bisley from Spaced.
We’ve taken a look at 15 of those venues that were loved and lost in the North East, as more and more grassroots venues continue to suffer in the current economic climate. Were you a regular at one of the venues we’ve chosen today?
5. Bobiks (Newcastle)
Situated inside The Punch Bowl Hotel in Newcastle, Bobiks closed their doors in 2024 after revealing that the closure was due to the venue not fitting "the overall vision for the venue” that the new owners had for it. It has since becomes a Mexican restaurant. | Google Maps
6. Sinners (Newcastle)
Another intriguing situation involving Google vs Local Knowledge; Sinners is apparently "still open" according to the search engine, however a look on their social media pages shows there have been no updates since 2023, while those on Reddit still query if it's open. | Google Maps
7. Players (The Gate, Newcastle)
Players at The Gate closed down in 2019, with the promise of a new venue and that they would remain in Newcastle despite leaving their original home. However, according to Google, the only other Players location in Newcastle has also been stated as "permanently closed." | Facebook
8. 45 Club (Whitley Bay)
The 45 Club in Whitley Bay was a well-loved, non-licensed venue during the mid-1960s. On weekdays, it operated as a disco with a resident DJ, while live bands took the stage on weekends. Although most of the performers were local, the club occasionally hosted acts from outside the northeast region. | Google Maps