The Blackie Boy, a historic pub in Newcastle's Bigg Market, is undergoing a major transformation to become the downstairs section of Duke's, a new two-floor Western saloon bar set to open in July. The venue, which has been a staple of Newcastle's nightlife for years, will be rebranded as part of a collaboration between hospitality groups Sayturk Group and Loosedays.
Transformation Details
Work on the downstairs space begins on Monday, with a wall being knocked through to create a stage and booths being removed. The original bar will remain intact, but all existing décor, including the famous lanterns, will be replaced with a feature wall. A huge jukebox from Austin, Texas, will be a highlight.
New Ownership and Vision
Duke's is a joint venture between Zaf Saygillier of Sayturk Group and Steven Bamford of Loosedays, aiming to bring authentic Southern hospitality to Newcastle. The bar will feature live music and karaoke seven days a week, with two themed karaoke booths upstairs inspired by Dolly Parton and Johnny Cash.
According to Tristen Egdorf, Duke's marketing executive, "This bar has a lot of history so we don't want to overly change it." The bar's social media channels have been teasing the opening with videos.
Impact on Local Nightlife
The transformation marks the end of an era for the Blackie Boy, which had evolved from a traditional pub to part of other venues like Perdu. Regulars will see the original bar preserved, but the overall look will be refreshed to fit Duke's American theme. The opening is expected to boost Newcastle's nightlife scene.
