The Late Shows are an annual highlight in the NewcastleGateshead culture calendar. Returning on the 16th and 17th of May this year, the late night culture crawl transforms the city into a bustling hub of creativity. Dive into a journey of immersive art, live music, and community events that are redefining the art and culture scene, bringing the unexpected, the whacky and the all-round awe-inspiring to venues across the region.
Read on for your insider look at this not-to-be-missed weekend of unique live art!
On Friday 16 May, the spotlight is on the buzzing creative neighbourhood of Ouseburn, where quirky galleries, independent studios, and grassroots venues fling open their doors for one magical night of artistic discovery. Then on Saturday 17 May, the trail winds through central Newcastle and Gateshead, welcoming you into some of the North East’s most iconic cultural spaces for late-night adventures and surprise encounters.
Where to Eat and Drink
No cultural crawl is complete without a good pit stop or two, and The Late Shows is the perfect excuse to sample some of the region’s best food and drink spots. Some of the venues and events as part of the Late Shows feature food and drink which you can browse here, but if you're still feeling peckish check out our tasty top spots:
Ouseburn Favourites: Kick off your evening at The Cook House, a stylish spot serving seasonal plates with a local twist. Or grab a pint at The Cluny, a legendary live music venue with hearty food and a great craft beer selection.
Central Newcastle: Head to the historic Grainger Market for tasty street food options like Acropolis for Greek gyros or SnackWallah for bold Indian flavours. Nearby, Mother Mercy offers atmospheric cocktails tucked away in a cosy, candlelit setting.
Quayside and Gateshead Gems: For riverside dining, Dobson & Parnell delivers elegant British cuisine, while SIX at BALTIC serves up stylish dishes with panoramic views of the NewcastleGateshead cityscape.
Getting Around
The Late Shows is a walkable culture crawl with many venues and events just short distances from each other, however there will be free shuttle buses running between key venues, meaning getting around the city couldn’t be easier. You can find more information and a full bus timetable here.
The Late Shows runs from 6pm-10pm on Friday 16th May and is centred around the Ouseburn area.
Craft your own props and snap for glory: the ultimate photobooth challenge! Design your own quirky props with resident illustrator Bethan Laker, accompanied by DJ's and extra fun challenges along the way, too. Capture the moment on camera with friends and family for a chance to win prizes.
Star and Shadow Cinema is an alternative social, cultural, arts and community hub run by a collective of volunteers. For the Late Shows this year, discover Making Do; a session on printmaking and creating zines in an immersive, cinematic environment.
The Biscuit Tin Print Club is back with the opportunity to learn new techniques and create your very own print to take home using lino, tetrapak or even natural materials such as grasses and leaves. If you’ve never made an original artists’ print before don’t worry, the printmakers and Print Club volunteers will support you through the process.
The NewBridge Project will be open late on Friday 16 May, with a brand new and exciting exhibition "Diasporic Sonic Worlds". Curated by Ellie Armon Azoulay, the exhibition explores music as a form of resistance. Alongside the show, the space will also feature new work made by Newcastle University first year Fine Art students.
School of Design, Northumbria University
The Design Feminisms Research Group aim to explore different relationships between design and feminisms in the North East by making a collaborative, sprawling mixed media manifesto, using clay, fabrics and photographs.
Contribute to a series of poems that will be read aloud on the free bus services transporting visitors around the the Late Shows on the Saturday evening, at the collaborative workshop 'Poems on the Buses'. Running on the Friday evening at the School of Design, use materials from civic archives to inspire and create this series, breathing new life from nostalgia around transportation across the North East.
A Grade II* listed building, designed by A. B. Higham in 1861, which today holds a unique partnership between church, school and circus and is the venue for a special show for this year's Late Shows. Join the community of arts organisations that reside within Christ Church - see music from Bangshee drummers and circus performances throughout the evening and take the opportunity to have a look round this historic building.
Get crafty and creative whilst relaxing with an ice cream and lemonade with Crafts & Ice Cream, hosted in the Shieldfield Art Works community garden.
The Biscuit Factory is the UK’s largest independent contemporary art, craft & design gallery set in the heart of Newcastle’s cultural quarter. Submerge yourself in the world of surrealist art with the opening of Jim Moir's (aka Vic Reeves) headline exhibition, as well as take part in a silhouette light painting photoshoot accompanied with a live DJ and food and drink throughout the evening. RE:BOURN will be returning once again this year, bringing a pop-up shop of sustainable designer, vintage and deadstock clothing.
Yoga x Life are dedicated to creating sustainable spaces offering yoga and meditation practices. Reconnect, recharge and rejuvenate with wellness drop in sessions, where you're invited to find community, unwind and focus on your wellbeing.
Cobalt is fast becoming the go-to place for gigs, shows and events in the Ouseburn. Get behind the scenes insight into artists studios, have a go at DJ-ing, tuck into a BBQ, get involved in pop-up theatre and then party into the night at Cobalt Studios.
Northern Print is the centre for excellence in printmaking in the North East of England. Go behind the scenes, meet the artists, learn about different print processes and see the presses in action whilst making your very own print to take home.
Head down to Newcastle's unique urban farm, nestled in the Ouseburn Valley for a unique late night experience. Feed, Play, Feast brings you the opportunity to to feed the farm animals and try your hand at fun farmyard games whilst indulging in delicious food and drink.
Discover the charm of Newcastle's oldest artist studio building, offering a peek into the working world of a diverse range of creators. Engage with artists, explore paintings, ceramics, sculptures, jewellery, furniture, and more while enjoying live music. A unique glimpse into the vibrant heart of Newcastle's art scene.
The home of children's literacy and imagination, Seven Stories is opening its doors for an adult-only performance from the talented in-house team of creatives for A Celebration of Mr Benn by David McKee. The bookshop will also be hosting 1970's themed food, drink and music and family-friendly story times will be running throughout the evening.
The Time Bandits will also be making an appearance at Seven Stories, giving visitors the opportunity to step back in time and explore a Home Guard display. See a collection of historical artefacts and try on replica uniforms. Learn about the Home Guard's roles, equipment, and recruitment from knowledgeable enthusiasts. All items are deactivated for safety.
The Find is home to nine resident artists and packed full of 20th century nostalgia and design. Exclusively for The Late Shows, The Find will be joined by 'Delights', an exhibition by self taught, North East artist c0wboy soup.
Be the first to view Jim's latest paintings, capturing North East locations, from Alnmouth down to Marsden Rocks. He'll also be exhibiting a selection of small preliminary art pieces, that rarely see the light of day. On the evening, visit Jim in his studio, where he'll be on hand to give an insight into his working practice, from the initial thumbnail sketch to the realised painting.
Explore Newcastle’s hidden heritage. Join a short 20-minute taster tour of the Victoria Tunnel, an underground wagonway running two and a half miles beneath the city. Find out about how this ingenious feat of Victorian engineering was built, and what life was like for the thousands of citizens who sheltered here in WWII. Taster tours will take place between 6pm – 9pm and the on the hour walks are walk in only. Booking is required.
See the Uses and Abuses: Ouseburn River Health exhibition which celebrates the story of the Ouseburn river and the communities that live alongside it from then to now. You can take part in a VR experience, learn nature's secrets in an expert workshop and explore the science of nature with microscopes. City 6 String & Toon will be providing the soundtrack to the night with live music and rock 'n' roll!
Gateshead born abstract Artist, Jonny Bainbridge, will be resident at The Bottleworks, where he will be exhibiting his collection of recent works. He will be on site to discuss his ideas and techniques which will also include interactive demonstrations and activities with the chance to take home a self made souvenir.
A thriving and refurbished new building in Ouseburn providing contemporary spaces for a range of digital and creative businesses, from start-ups in a shared workspace to larger offices for established companies. Toffee Factory and The Cumberland Arms come together once more for an evening celebrating the extraordinary life and work of David Lynch. Immerse yourself in experiences from other worlds but be warned, you may not want to leave!
The Space by St. Oswald's Hospice
Make & Mend-Along is an evening of creativity; make comics and zines with Paper-Jam Collective and use second-hand goodies for unique creations. Shop sustainably at the pop-up market and second-hand haberdashery!
Take a peek through the keyhole around the former Maling Pottery, once one of the world's largest pottery factories, now transformed into Newcastle's coolest place to work whilst retaining some of the important historical features. Learn about the yard’s past as Maling’s Pottery and have a go at creating your own coaster, inspired by the award-winning tiled wall.
The Glasshouse International Centre for Music
Enter the magical world of Maurice Ravel’s ‘Mother Goose’, through a series of mixed-media sound boxes, created by artist James Bulley. Each box brings to life a fairytale story, including Sleeping Beauty and Beauty and the Beast, with an immersive score by Royal Northern Sinfonia, field recordings and found natural materials and collage.
Enjoy a night of crafting and creativity led by Gateshead based makers, creators and organisations. The evening will be a showcase of activities that take place both within the gallery and beyond. You'll also be able to enjoy live music, and there'll be opportunities to make your own takeaway artwork. The Lounge area will be a dedicated quiet space available for any visitors who need a place to take time out.
Revamp & Recycle at Gateshead Central Library is an learning new tips and skills for recycling and upcycling your wardrobe favourites. MakerPlace will be there using vinyl offcuts for you to add environmental messages to fabric and textile artist Donna Cheshire will be guiding workshops on embellishments and embroidery.
The Kittiwake Trust Multilingual Library
Visit the library which houses books in more than 100 languages and dialects, including Geordie! Bring your instruments and join in with an evening of magical music, poetry and jigsaws.
Join Green Heart in tackling textile waste and experience the marvellous creations made from unwanted men's shirts. Make your own personalised shirt cuff bracelet. Expect community vibes, live music, snacks and heaps of creativity.
Orbis Community has transformed an old Gateshead bank into ‘The Creative Exchange’, inspired by ‘People and Place’. Unleash your creativity with the Morphological Matrix! Visit open studios, take part in workshops, and meet the visionary creatives shaping tomorrow. Explore new ideas, collaborate, and discover the power of innovation at Orbis Community—where entrepreneurs, artists, and dreamers thrive in an inspiring, dynamic workspace.
Experience BEE DJ in the North, a performance by Berlin-based artist, Jorn Ebner. Using bee sound samples, his live sets are both atmospheric and an invitation to dance. His captivating and colourful performance outfit is inspired by exotic wild bees and Chinese Opera. There’ll also be a bee waggle dance workshop for visitors.
Maker Space is a community owned and run workshop featuring an eclectic group of makers, creatives, programmers, scientists and engineers. You will be able to meet the team, see their fun electrical, mechanical and craft projects, and witness the 3D printer in action. This year's event will feature a special exhibit of a collection of retro computer and gaming devices.
BALTIC Centre for Contemporary Art
Make your Saturday night a BALTIC night with a special late opening of the gallery’s brand-new Spring Season exhibitions. Don’t miss this rare chance to see Hartlepool-born artists Laura and Rachel Lancaster’s powerful paintings shown side by side for the very first time. Meanwhile, Ali Cherri’s How I Am Monument—praised by The Guardian—dives deep into the fragile line between creation and destruction in conflict zones. Join Tom Houlton, Lecturer in Film and Literature at the University of York, for a relaxed gallery talk exploring Cherri’s striking Toppled Monument series. Thought-provoking, atmospheric, and not to be missed.
Step inside one of Gateshead’s most iconic buildings for a cosy evening of live music, hands-on crafting, and tasty treats from the on-site café. Fancy a wander? Join Dr Katie Liddane for a bite-sized tour of the church yard and uncover the wonderfully weird tales tucked into Gateshead’s history. Mini tours will be popping up throughout the evening—don’t miss out!
Join the party at The Soundroom as they mark 40 years of making music, memories and magic in Gateshead! Expect a night packed with live tunes, hands-on DJ workshops, and live recordings that’ll have your toes tapping. Take a wander through the exhibition, where vintage vinyl, brilliant photos, and behind-the-scenes stories bring the past four decades of local music-making to life..
See the Tyne like never before with a visit to the striking Dunston Staiths. Climb up to the top deck for a guided tour (running until dusk) and soak up the stories of this historic structure. Down on Staithes Road, step into the Staiths space to dive deeper through audio tales and a specially curated exhibition that brings the heritage of this iconic site to life.
Bensham Grove Community Centre
Step into the charm of this Grade II listed gem for a day bursting with creativity, history and good vibes. Join a guided tour to uncover the stories hidden in its walls, then head outdoors to get stuck into garden games and crafty fun for all ages. Fancy getting your hands dirty? Try your hand at the potter’s wheel or give smoke firing a go. You can even make your own seed bombs! Top it all off with tasty food served in beautiful handmade bowls and live music to set the scene. It’s a proper celebration—come along and get involved!
Pull up a seat for a cosy night of creativity at this pop-up open mic, hosted by the brilliant performer and spoken word artist Mwelwa Chilekwa. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or fancy giving it a go for the first time, all forms are welcome—poetry, comedy, music, or something entirely your own. Taking place in a much-loved historic spot (and the very first pub opened by Hadrian Border Brewery!), it’s the perfect setting to soak up some local talent with a pint in hand.
Atlas North East is a dynamic and vibrant creative multi-use studio space, located within the vibrant artist community known as 'Orbis Community'. Offering an inspiring environment for artists, designers, and creative professionals, this space is perfect for those seeking a collaborative and supportive atmosphere to nurture their artistic endeavours. For the second consecutive year, join Atlas North East as they host a courtyard takeover at Orbis Community and Open studio. Come and meet the awesome creative businesses in the fantastical courtyard, think - art, music, food and entertainment.
Step into Gateway Studio and experience Then, Now and HERE, a celebration of Black and Global Majority heritage through dance, art and cultural expression. Hosted by the inclusive and creative hub of Gateway Studio, this exhibition brings together stunning visuals, live performances, and insightful talks. In collaboration with HERE: North East, a Global Majority community archive, and Northumbria University’s MARGINALITIES research group, expect a thought-provoking and immersive evening.
Explore the top floor of the building in Gallowgate with a new perspective from the Library and Heritage centre. Traditional Irish music session in the Secret Shebeen with a drop of poitín for those old enough and brave enough.
Step back in time at Blackfriars, a hidden gem tucked inside a 13th-century former Dominican friary—the oldest dining room in the UK and a true jewel in Newcastle’s medieval crown. Kick off your visit with an engaging history tour of the building, then head outside for sizzling BBQ bites, a crackling fire pit, and a cold beer from the brilliant St Dominic’s Brewery. It’s heritage, hearty food, and cosy vibes all wrapped into one atmospheric evening.
Pop into D6’s welcoming city-centre studios and explore the work of artists who’ve sparked conversations, challenged perspectives, and brought real moments of joy to the space this year. These artists-in-residence have spent time developing powerful new work that explores the beauty—and the complexity—of the world around us. It’s an inspiring peek behind the scenes at the creative process, and a chance to see how art can shape, question and connect.
Get involved in a large-scale drawing project! Guided by course tutors, create a portrait of yourself or each other then add it to the wall. Beyond this, meet artists in their studios, see their work displayed and buy direct.
The Black Swan is the music, dance and performance venue in the basement of Newcastle Arts Centre. Enjoy live music and streetfood in the hidden courtyard.
Explore the inside of this stunning Grade II* listed building and discover a night packed with creativity and character. Check out the brand-new Coal Queens exhibition in the grand Wood Hall, take in local artist Neil Turner’s charming sketches, and put your building skills to the test with some engineering-themed LEGO fun in the Map Room. When you’re ready to unwind, head over to 5|Quarter Café Bar for a drink and belt out a tune (or two!) at live band karaoke. It’s history, art, and a good laugh—all under one beautiful roof.
Get your groove on next to the mighty Turbinia at Discovery Museum’s silent disco! Pick your soundtrack from a choice of music channels and dance the night away—headphones on, vibes high. There’ll be games and surprise activities sprinkled throughout the night to keep the fun going. Need a breather? A calm, quiet space will be available, along with noise-cancelling headphones and sensory packs including fidget toys and weighted blankets—everyone’s welcome, just as they are.
Designed by none other than AWN Pugin, the visionary behind the interiors of the Houses of Parliament—and discover a magical mix of the medieval and the modern at Cathedral Church of St Mary. For one night only, you’re invited to join in a medieval chant, soak up the soaring sound of the cathedral’s organ, and take a speedy tour through its magnificent stained-glass windows. Don’t miss the chance to climb up to the organ loft for a breathtaking view of both the cathedral interior and the Newcastle skyline beyond. A truly special evening in one of the city’s most beautiful spaces.
Gather in St Nicholas Square and set off on a churchyard tour full of curious tales and hidden history. Was Queen Victoria really that unimpressed by Newcastle? And what’s the story behind the mysterious ‘Vampire Rabbit’ keeping watch over the Cathedral? Along the way, you’ll uncover the lives and secrets of those laid to rest here. Intrigue, legend and a touch of gothic charm await! Booking is required.
The famous medieval tavern at Newcastle Castle returns! For one night only, the ground floor of the Castle Keep will become a place for revelry, fine ale, music and storytelling. The event will take place in the Castle Keep (not the Black Gate).
Visit the magnificent Jacobean public rooms open from 6.30pm-10.30pm (no booking required). In addition, tours of the rarely viewed private rooms will take place at 6.15-7pm, 8.15-9pm and 9.15-10pm. Limited numbers available. Tickets will be available to book from 11am Monday 7 April.
NCA will host a performance by Turner Prize nominee Delaine Le Bas. This will give visitors a sneak preview of her exhibition, which will open in the gallery later in the year.
Step into the elegant surroundings of Castle Fine Art on Grey Street for an evening where music meets masterpiece. Sip on a complimentary glass of bubbly as gallery curators share the stories and techniques behind the artworks—including exclusive new pieces by icons like Bob Dylan, Boy George, and Billy Connolly. As the evening rolls on, the lights go low and the energy turns up for a lively gallery disco, complete with a live DJ. Art, music and a little sparkle—what more could you want?
Join in with an evening of creative activities exploring industry, mapping and celestial navigation, with an opportunity to visit the new exhibition, Turner: Art, Industry and Nostalgia.
Celebrate your love of libraries with a laid-back evening at City Library’s reading retreat. Settle in with a hot (or cold!) drink and explore a mix of chilled-out activities—from arcade and board games to crafty makes and a pop-up library designed for maximum relaxation. Whether you’re here to read, play or simply unwind, it’s the perfect reminder that libraries are full of surprises—and there’s way more to them than you might remember.
African Lives in Northern England
Take a gentle stroll through Newcastle City Centre and uncover the powerful stories of residents and visitors of African descent who’ve made a lasting impact—right here in the North East and around the world. Along the way, you’ll hear about inspiring figures like Muhammad Ali, Ida B. Wells, Ira Aldridge, Paul Robeson, and Ellen Craft. This short, accessible walk invites you to literally follow in their footsteps and celebrate the rich, diverse history woven through our city streets.
Experience the museum after hours and get hands-on with a large-scale collaborative artwork, created alongside Moving Parts Arts. Inspired by THE HERDS and supported by Art Fund, this is your chance to be part of something truly unique. Come, create, and leave your mark on this exciting project!
Haylofts, formerly the stables for Newcastle Breweries is the newest addition to Hoults Yard quirky workspace. Pop in for a look around at the former stables, grab a free coffee and pop your feet up for a moment.
Concrete Dreams is an exhibition that delves into the dramatic transformation of Tyneside during the 1960s and 1970s. While you’re there, join the fun with a drop-in workshop—Paper City Model—where you’ll help design and build a new model for Newcastle using nothing but paper. How many paper houses can we create together? Come be part of shaping a new city, one paper piece at a time!
Hancock Gallery
Visit the Hancock Gallery and let your creativity flow! Grab a pencil, dive into some hands-on drawing, and create your own masterpiece inspired by the incredible works around you. Explore the art in a whole new light, then put your knowledge to the test with a fun quiz for the chance to win a prize every artist dreams of. It's a night of inspiration, creativity, and a little friendly competition!
Head over to the Hatton for a vibrant evening packed with creative fun! Enjoy music from Novyi-Lef, a synth duo whose pieces are inspired by the work of Kurt Schwitters, and catch a short film by artist Rebecca Etheridge, Mum. Get hands-on with collage postcard making and send a little art from the gallery, or dive into exciting drawing activities. Don’t forget to browse the makers’ mini-market, where you’ll find unique gifts from talented local artists and craftspeople. It’s an evening of art, music, and creativity, all in one place!
Immerse yourself in a unique exhibition created by artist-in-residence Graeme, where words and thoughts, both imagined and overheard, come to life. Become part of the experience by adding your own contribution to the walls, and enjoy live music from the L.A.D’s pop-up. It’s a fantastic chance to discover what Cobalt Central NCL is all about, all while celebrating creativity in the heart of the city. This event is part of the Creative Central NCL commission, in partnership with Cobalt CIC.
Explore this exciting new Late Shows venue in the heart of Creative Central NCL, where science and art collide in a truly unique way. Watch as the BioKnit team teams up with artists to create a living bio sculpture that’s as innovative as it is fascinating. It’s a chance to see cutting-edge creativity in action, all brought to life through a Creative Central NCL commission in partnership with MawsonKerr and the Hub for Biotechnology in the Built Environment at Newcastle University.
Head over to Waterloo Square and discover Arcadea’s brand new venue, where the talented artists at Hub Studio have been busy creating work to introduce themselves to you. They’re bringing the Square to life, celebrating the creativity of learning-disabled artists at the very heart of our city. It’s a joyous celebration of art and community, and they can’t wait to welcome you in! This event is part of the Creative Central NCL commission, in partnership with Arcadea CIC.
Hypnic Picnic is a playground for Newcastle’s sonic frontier, where dreamlike soundscapes and hypnotic drones will transport you to another world. Grab a spot for a relaxed picnic (just pay what you feel towards the food) and let the fusion of ambient music and community wash over you. It’s a chance to unwind, connect, and let the sound carry you somewhere new.
Nestled in a historic Georgian Square, just a stone’s throw from Newcastle city centre, Summerhill Square is home to the former Summerhill Bowling Club—now a thriving community-owned venue with over a hundred years of fascinating history. On Saturday evening, explore this hidden gem and its beautiful gardens, learn about the rich history of Summerhill Square, and have a go at lawn bowls. With a few surprises along the way, it’s the perfect way to step back in time and enjoy something truly unique in the heart of the city.
Experience the world of Freemasonry at Maple Terrace Masonic Hall. Discover a hidden gem that’s been standing proudly since 1870, a purpose-built masonic building still buzzing with meetings today. Step inside the Lodge Room, where masonic symbolism, stunning stained glass, and ornate wooden furniture tell a fascinating story. Explore the rich history of the building and take the opportunity to ask the masons themselves anything you’ve ever wondered about freemasonry. It’s a rare chance to uncover the secrets of this unique place, right in the heart of the city.
Step into the heart of new writing at Live Theatre’s iconic bar for an open mic night full of stories, poems, and spoken word magic. Whether you’re here to perform or just soak it all in, grab a drink, pull up a chair, and enjoy a relaxed evening of words shared aloud. Got something to say? The mic is yours, this is a space where every voice is welcome.
Join students and researchers for a musical adventure through time and place! Follow the footsteps of circus musicians across Britain, uncover the long histories behind songs still sung today, and hop across land and sea through sound. Get hands-on with mini music workshops and express your own musical journey through creative, visual fun. It’s a toe-tapping, tune-filled evening where every story starts with a song.
Northumbria University, Student Central
What does sleep mean to you? Step into the Reimagining Sleep pop-up exhibition and explore the night-time world through maps, drawings, writings, and soundscapes created by, with, and for people who experience sleep differently. As you wander through, you’ll be invited to respond to the soundscapes through mark-making, adding your own impressions and helping to grow this evolving collection. It’s a calming, thoughtful space to pause, reflect, and connect through shared experiences of sleep.
Celebrate the launch of With These Hands, a beautiful new exhibition exploring how craft is captured in paintings, drawings and prints. Get involved with a range of drop-in creative activities and try your hand at crafting yourself. For something a little extra, book onto an exclusive curator-led tour just for Late Shows visitors. You’ll uncover the hidden stories behind the artworks and gain a deeper insight into the exhibition, but places are limited, so pre-booking is essential (£8 plus booking fee). A must for anyone curious about the art of making.
Make your way to Neuro Gallery at Carliol Square for Have Your Cake and Eat It, a unique evening that blends powerful art, creative expression, and live performance. Discover the bold and thought-provoking work of performance artist Stu Herring, whose pieces explore ritual, endurance and the human condition. You'll also find a showcase of designs from Inspired Support Art and Design, a brilliant initiative supporting neuro-diverse creatives to express themselves through art and design. Downstairs, WHQ will be bringing the energy with open mic slots and dance performances, creating a lively, welcoming space where emerging performers can shine. It’s a celebration of creativity, identity and community, all under one roof.
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