- Play Hard
- 5th Feb 2025
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- 0 minute
Get ready for the ultimate social playground in Newcastle’s Eldon Square: Freight Island is arriving in autumn 2025

Newcastle’s nightlife and cultural scene is about to get a serious upgrade, as Freight Island – the game-changing entertainment and dining destination – prepares to open its doors in Eldon Square in autumn 2025.
A one-of-a-kind social playground
Taking over the top floor of the former Debenhams, along with an expansive rooftop space, Freight Island Newcastle will transform 60,000 square feet into a vibrant indoor-outdoor hub for food, drink, live music, and immersive entertainment. Inspired by iconic destinations like Coney Island in New York and Tivoli Gardens in Copenhagen, this ambitious venue will offer everything from family-friendly daytime experiences to electrifying late-night parties.
Having already made waves in Manchester since 2020, Freight Island is known for blending cutting-edge entertainment with an unbeatable social atmosphere. Now, Newcastle is set to get its own version – and it’s shaping up to be the most exciting new venue the city has seen in years.
The ultimate food and drink destination
Foodies, rejoice. Freight Island will bring together a hand-picked selection of eateries, from global street food traders to a service-led restaurant led by an executive chef. The space will also feature a communal food hall under a retractable roof, making it the perfect spot for all-weather dining.
Drinks-wise, expect something totally unique. Freight Island Newcastle will be home to the UK’s first-ever wine tanks, serving single-producer-led wines with a focus on sustainability. A dedicated Aperitivo cocktail bar will offer expertly crafted drinks, alongside an impressive range of beers. Sustainability will be at the heart of it all, with on-site produce growing and a strong commitment to supporting North East suppliers.
A new cultural hotspot for Newcastle
Freight Island isn’t just about food and drink – it’s a full-blown entertainment powerhouse. One of its standout features will be the purpose-built Music Box, a state-of-the-art venue designed to host everything from intimate gigs to international touring acts. Expect a diverse lineup of live music, DJ sets, theatre performances, and even national festivals.
With its mix of culture, nightlife, and social spaces, Freight Island is set to inject new energy into Newcastle’s city centre. As part of a wider £16 million investment into Eldon Square, the venue will play a key role in boosting the city’s economy, creating hundreds of jobs and supporting local talent.
Why this matters for Newcastle
Freight Island’s arrival couldn’t come at a better time. With Newcastle undergoing significant regeneration, including the £50 million City Centre Transformation Programme and the Pilgrim Street redevelopment, this new venue is set to be a major attraction for both locals and visitors.
By securing a long-term lease at Eldon Square, Freight Island is making a bold statement: Newcastle is the place to be. Whether you’re a die-hard foodie, a live music lover, or just someone looking for an exciting new place to hang out, this is a venue you won’t want to miss.
Want to stay in the loop?
Freight Island Newcastle launches in autumn 2025. To get exclusive updates and be the first to hear about opening events, sign up at www.freightislandnewcastle.com and follow @freightislandnewcastle on Instagram.
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