As a region, we punch well above our weight when it comes to producing top musical acts. Just some of the famous names to emerge from the North East and Cumbria are Sting, Mark Knopfler and Bryan Ferry.
For big gigs, there are our football stadiums and the Metro Radio Arena, but it’s our independent venues play an important part in the region’s music scene as they are a vital lifeline to upcoming artists early in their careers.
Jazz, Soul and Funk. venue in Newcastle where music lovers regularly get to see top artists, up close and personal, who would rarely perform in such an intimate venue.
A tiny venue (80 for a standing gig, 45 seated) on the beach in a building that is over a century old.
The Surf Cafe, which has serves as an intimate bar/cafe seven days a week and is home to a weekly music night.
A 100% fully independent music venue and one of the most intimate in the UK set within a beautifully restored building dating back to 1766.
There are lots of great pubs in Newcastle's Ouseburn, but don’t miss the Cumberland Arms, a traditional pub holding folk music sessions, stand-up comedy nights and even a spot of theatre.
Carlisle’s famous live music venue has hosted some of the biggest names in music, past and present, including bands like Arctic Monkeys, Babyshambles and The James Taylor Quartet.
The Cluny offers a very different experience to city-centre venues. From the posters on the walls to Sid the doorman, it’s a homely place where music, drinking and food feel important.
Darlington's dedicated music venue, music college, rehearsal space and recording studio.
A great bar playing live music seven days a week. The mood is as simple & laid back as the design, with a cool and friendly crowd.
If you’re looking for a night out that’s a bit less boisterous, there are plenty of theatres, cinemas and comedy clubs to keep you occupied:
Plays host to international orchestras, theatre, opera and ballet companies, international recording artists and comedians, both past and present.
Proudly badging itself 'The West End of the North East', the Sunderland Empire Theatre hosts big-name shows and musicals to audiences of up to 2,000 people.
Enjoy the latest blockbuster or independent film with a tub of local ice cream at this historic Art Deco cinema, which dates back to 1937.
Housed at the Lakeside in Keswick, this unique stone and slate built theatre is famed for its home-produced performances and its amazing views across Derwentwater, Borrowdale and the Western Fells.
This city centre venue attracts big acts and top performances including our very own comedian Sarah Millican.
Housed at the Lakeside in Keswick, this unique stone and slate built theatre is famed for its home-produced performances and its amazing views across Derwentwater, Borrowdale and the Western Fells
Hosting regular touring comedy from the biggest names on the comedy circuit. On Wednesday nights they host their famous Red Raw beginners' night.
The Rough Guide 2018 crowned Newcastle Upon Tyne its must-visit destination for 2018. In their review of our region’s capital Rough Guide writers said: “Expect also to be bowled over by Geordie geniality (locals are famously friendly) and the city’s nightlife, which is notoriously lively.
A burgeoning restaurant scene, fantastic museums and architectural feats like Tyne Bridge add to the appeal of Newcastle, which is also friendly on the wallet.”
