According to ‘Old Pubs of Newcastle’, The Bridge Hotel was built in 1885 , which makes it younger than the carpet in the Rose and Crown.
It would have been frequented by the men who maintained the High Level Bridge, which explains why The Bridge was closed for 2 years and normal traffic is no longer allowed on it. Who could have guessed that beer and building don’t mix?
It was later extended and modernised in the early 20th century into the impressive building we have today nestled neatly close to the castle keep.
Inside- is a long bar along one wall with snugs, partitions and plenty of nooks and crannies to chat or watch the world go by. Upstairs there is a decent sized function room which hosts pretty much everything from traditional music nights to comedy.
Towards the raised area at the back, you will find another flight of stairs that takes you down to an impressive beer garden which incorporates part of the old city wall. From here you get great views of the Tyne bridge, Gateshead and women in high heels complaining about the number of steps they have had to climb up from the Quayside.
The main reason you go to The Bridge is for the beer. As part of the Fitzgerald pub estate, you know you’ll get a good pint from a great selection of well kept beers.
Local ales are front and centre with Anarchy Blonde Star and Wylams Jakehead seemingly permanent fixtures on the bar.
They also serve hot drinks, which is useful when you’re out with my brother who likes a brew rather than a beer, and they oblige by serving it in teapot Rupaul would think was a bit over the top.
As you can imagine a bar as large and imposing with a reputation for great beer, is a popular meeting spot before you head elsewhere and it is also incredibly popular on match days.
All in all a great bar with friendly staff and locals, great beer and atmosphere.
This pub is pretty much close to perfect.
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