Play Hard

5 hidden gems in and around Metro Stations across the North East

From quirky coffee shops fuelling your commute to work to sipping a cocktail on a suntrap terrace, these food and drinking destinations are the perfect way to start or finish a day out.

Written by Rachael Nichol
Published 30.08.2023

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In the North East, we’re blessed with great transport routes like the Metro that connect our different counties allowing us to explore everything that our region has to offer.

But what we love is that inside and close by to Metro stations you’ll discover some hidden gems, whether it be a secret spot for a frothy coffee for your commute to work or a quirky pint pit stop in a former luggage room after a day of exploring the coast.

So next time you’re using the Metro or if you walk past these hidden gems every day and haven’t noticed them before, this is your calling to visit these food and drinking destinations that take you from breakfast to dessert and chilled boozy beverages…

HLN TOP TIP: We recommend getting a Metro Pop PAYG card as it’s the most cost-effective way to get around with travel cheaper than single and day tickets.

DIL & THE BEAR AT THE STATION, WHITLEY BAY

Metro station: Whitley Bay

Home in the heart of Whitley Bay Metro Station, this café and bar serves tempting breakfast and lunch menus. Whether you fancy a traditional English breakfast or a sweet Bakewell breakfast pancake, there’s no better way to start your day than washing your breakfast down with your favourite freshly brewed coffee.

Or, if you’re a late riser and prefer to go out for lunch then you won’t be disappointed. We’re talking Cuban pulled pork ciabatta, miso chicken noodle salad bowl and New York-style bagel. Plus, Dil & The Bear has a gorgeous sun trap terrace where you can sit back, sip a cocktail (or two) and watch the world go by.

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THE TRAIN LINE, SEABURN

Metro station: Seaburn

A coffee break is never complete without pairing it with a delicious slice of cake or a biscuit, right? The Train Line at Seaburn Metro Station has been making real tracks recently offering a range of hot drinks and freshly prepared desserts, with mouth-watering culinary creations ranging from Biscoff-stuffed cookies to Oreo cheesecake-filled croissants.

Whether you fancy indulging in these sweet treats on the patio outside or want to take them away to level up your picnic on Roker Beach, it goes without saying these sugary goodies will certainly brighten up your day no matter what your age.

HLN TOP TIP: If you’re planning a family day out, check out these affordable family day out ideas via the Metro

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LEFT LUGGAGE ROOM, MONKSEATON

Metro station: Monkseaton

You’ll find this specialist craft beer micropub inside the former parcel and lost luggage room of Monkseaton Metro Station, hence their name. At this quirky drinking destination, you’ll be served a selection of beers, wines, specialist spirits and seasonal cocktails.

At the Left Luggage Room, expect no alcopops, no cheap lagers and no televisions, just hearty drinks, good vibes and great conversations in a unique building that’s packed with history within its walls.

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ARDALLAN KITCHEN, FELLING

Metro Station: Felling

After just a 7-minute walk from Felling Metro Station, you’ll come across this quirky and casual dining bistro housed in a stunning converted Victorian stable. Expect bold, contemporary décor, a warm atmosphere and a private courtyard for al fresco dining that’s perfect for soaking up the sun.

From their signature homity pie that’s a customer’s favourite to scrumptious blueberry pancakes and cinnamon French toast and freshly brewed coffees and teas, Ardallan Kitchen’s inventive, locally sourced breakfast, brunch and lunch menus have something for everyone.

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DAVANTI CLASSICO, TYNEMOUTH

Metro Station: Tynemouth

Housed in the stunning Victorian splendour of Tynemouth Metro Station, Davanti Classico is an Italian restaurant that serves some of the finest pizza and pasta dishes that’ll satisfy all your cheese and carby cravings, all washed down with some fine wine.

Why not stop off before a walk along the beach and choose from their special rapido menu offering two traditional courses for just £11.95 (add a dessert for only £3.50)? Or how about indulging in the ultimate Sunday roast dinner before finishing off your date night on Tynemouth Front Street that’s just a stone’s throw away from the Metro station?

HLN TOP TIP: If you’re searching for new date ideas in Newcastle and beyond check out our feature.

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For more information on tickets and offers and to check the full Metro map and timetable, visit Nexus’ website.

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