For beer and ale lovers, the annual Campaign for Real Ale (CAMRA) guide is a bible to finding the best bars and pubs in their local area. The extensive list highlights venues selected by its members "as places to savour good beers from small breweries as well as cask-conditioned lagers and world beers and some pubs are highlighted for serving real ciders too". Here are 10 of the Newcastle bars that feature in the 50th edition of the guide and what CAMRA said about each of them.
1. Brinkburn Bar & Kitchen
CAMRA said: "Inspired by American craft breweries and taprooms, the main attraction here is the range and quality of beers, most of which are brewed on-site. There are also a couple of guests, often from Steam Machine. The quirky bar features a collection of armour and objets d’art. Food is a major feature; the kitchen produces traditional regional dishes using locally sourced ingredients.” | Google StreetviewPhoto: Google Streetview
2. The Free Trade Inn
CAMRA said: “Unique former Scottish & Newcastle pub with wonderful views of the Tyne bridges and Newcastle and Gateshead quaysides. Up to nine beers and five ciders are available on the bar. Interesting ales come from far and wide, with regular tap takeovers and an extensive range of foreign bottled beers. Service is smiling, friendly and knowledgeable. The jukebox is classic and free, and the beer garden is excellent.”Photo: Google
3. Tyne Bar
CAMRA said: “Waterside pub in the heart of Ouseburn Valley with a well-deserved reputation for good beer and innovative food. Its civilised atmosphere is in marked contrast to the building’s seedy past as the Ship Tavern before refurbishment in 1994." | /
4. Keelman
CAMRA said: “This tastefully converted, Grade II-listed former pumping station is now home to the Big Lamp Brewery – the Keelman is the brewery tap. A conservatory restaurant serves excellent food, and quality accommodation is provided in the adjacent Keelman’s Lodge and Salmon Cottage.” | Google StreetviewPhoto: Google Streetview