The Central, a Victorian pub on Half Moon Lane in Gateshead's Railway Quarter, has been named one of The Telegraph's Best Pubs in the UK. It is one of 29 North East pubs on the list and the only Gateshead inclusion. The publication's experts chose it for its "charming character, welcoming staff, rich history and, of course, award-winning beer".
The pub, built in 1856, sits at the bottom of Gateshead near the Tyne Bridge. A previous CAMRA Pub of the Year winner, it has a distinctive tapered flat-iron shape that gave it the nickname 'the coffin'. Inside, it features etched windows, ceiling mouldings and a U-shaped polished-wood back bar.
Tough times for hospitality
Sharing the news on Facebook, The Central called the recognition "absolutely smashing". The post said: "It's absolutely smashing to be included in The Telegraph's Top Pubs list again, this time expanded to included the wider UK! This means a lot, particularly during these tough times for hospitality."
It added: "Saying that, it's been tough since 2020!" The pub thanked its staff, past and present, for making it "a sustainable business with a quality offering", along with live music promoters, suppliers and customers. It also noted: "It really is tough operating a building of this size and age, with constant investment in building maintenance, furniture upgrades, heating system upgrades and general wear and tear!"
Praise from customers
The pub stressed: "We're not a big pubco. or chain, we're as independent as they come!" Congratulations came in from customers, including "Well done, onwards and upwards", "Great pub, top class beer", "Fully deserved - smashing pub", "Well done, a cracking pub" and "Well deserved, keep up the good work. We love your bar and all the others in the excellent 'Railway Quarter'."
The Grade II-listed building gained a rooftop area during a £1m-plus revamp in 2010. Its upper rooms are used for live music nights, while other events include a weekly quiz. Seating outside faces Station East across the lane, with neighbours on Wellington Street including Microbus, VIN, Axis and Bertie's Shirts.
