Stonegate Pub Company has completed a £325,000 refurbishment of historic pub the Akenside Traders, one of Newcastle Quayside’s most visited pubs, also creating five new jobs.
Its much-loved independent character has been retained whilst a number of ‘city firsts’ have arrived including its first full-sized video wall, retro pub game table Shuffleboard, and bookable booths with TVs (or cocktails)! Sky and BT Sports, two big screens and seven new HD TVs have been installed. The 31st March Joshua bout, Cheltenham, Six Nations and World Cup are all planned.
Stripped back to brickwork, tiles, and reclaimed wood, abstract lighting includes neons illuminating a craft wall of beer and cider, and kaleidoscopic windows that can turn the venue green for St Patricks or red and white for the World Cup.
“We’ve got loads going on from on trend craft beer, bottomless Prosecco & stone baked pizza, entertainment to premium cut Sunday roast” said manager Kevan Shutt. “We’ve always been famous for parties and that will continue whilst we’ve extended our offer to create a busy daytime too. We’re an authentic Newcastle pub – with some modern elements now.”
Punk IPA, Brewdog, and Hop House are just some of the craft beers; there’s local and national ales; Victorian Punch bowls; single cocktails; and a spirits emporium of premium blends. Sourdough pizzas, tempting tapas sharers and burgers are at the core of the menu alongside brunch, traditional meals and sharer desserts.
There’s fun most nights of the week from a local radio station DJ at weekends, to free shuffleboard on Sunday and the great British pub quiz.