The Boiler Shop Steamer

Newcastle Upon Tyne was a great industrial centre in the 19th Century, with many great innovations and discoveries taking place here. It was a centre for shipbuilding and the Armstrong works built armaments. Mosley Street in the centre of Newcastle was the first street to be lit by electric lights, thanks to Joseph Swan and Stephenson built The Rocket which revolutionised the steam train. I have previously visited the Stephenson railway museum which is a fascinating look at the history of steam in the area.

The Boiler Shop Steamer is a monthly event that celebrates food, drink and music which takes place in The Boiler Shop, the birthplace of Stephenson’s rocket. It takes place on the first weekend of every month, from 5.30 to midnight on the Friday and midday to midnight on the Saturday. Under the roof you will find a mixture of different food vendors, drinks and entertainment.

Entry is normally £4.00 in the evening but on Saturday afternoon it is free so I set off with my son to explore the event. The easiest way to get there is to head along Forth Street behind the Central Station, you will see the entry to the steamer set off this road. When you go though the pedestrian tunnel in Forth Street look out for the unique bricks.

The Steamer itself is full of food, some established restaurants and some new faces. To buy the food you need to exchange your money for tokens. Each token costs £2 and most food items are 2 or 3 tokens. We had a look to see what we fancied and there was plenty to choose from.

Outside Longhorns BBQ were offering ribs. They have just opened a new restaurant on Moseley Street which has man vs food style challenges. The food looked tasty and I hope to visit the restaurant soon. Inside the room is light and airy, rows of tables had been set up in the centre of the room so you can sit down for a bite to eat. Round the outside there are plenty of food stalls to choose from.

Drink is also available supplied by Wylam Brewery who are one of the founders of the event and specialise in real ale and craft beers. There was also coffee and expresso martinis which looked rather nice. There is a stage at the far end of The Boiler House where bands play.

I enjoyed a pulled chicken basket from El Kantina which was very tasty. I loved the taco basket.

My son tried a burger from Fat Hippo’s which he said was the tastiest burger ever. On the way out he got a hot dog from Utter Swine. I think his face says it all.

We had a great afternoon and really enjoyed our visit. If you want to go along yourself the next Boiler Shop Steamer takes place on the 5th and 6th December.