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Customs House Newcastle

4.2
·804 reviews·Newcastle, Australia

An elegant 1877 building on Newcastle's harbour foreshore, offering dining, events, and stunning views.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Summer afternoons

Enjoy the sunny beer garden

CrowdMedium
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Customs House Newcastle - Image 1

Customs House Newcastle

Best Time

Summer afternoons

Enjoy the sunny beer garden

CrowdMedium
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

An elegant 1877 building on Newcastle's harbour foreshore, offering dining, events, and stunning views.

4.2
(804 reviews)

"This is definitely one of Newcastle's iconic gems that must be experienced."

Vertical photo
TIP

🎯 Book Wedding/Events Early

Highly recommended for events due to amazing staff & food. Book the Harbourmasters Lounge for its beauty!

☀️ Enjoy the Beer Garden

Perfect spot for drinks with friends, soaking up the sun and harbour views. Live music in summer!

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Harbour Foreshore Views

Harbour Foreshore Views

Beer Garden & Verandah

Soak in glorious vistas of the harbour and foreshore from this iconic Newcastle gem. Perfect for drinks or a meal.

Reddit
Historic Architecture

Historic Architecture

Interior

Step inside to be blown away by the ornate, historic interior of this 1877 building. A feast for the eyes.

Reddit
Bella's Bistro

Bella's Bistro

Ground Floor

Enjoy seasonal Mediterranean meals and fine wine in an elegant setting with a decadent terrace.

Instagram
The Customs House Fountain

The Customs House Fountain

Outdoor Area

A refreshing spot to cool off and enjoy the atmosphere, especially on a warm day.

Instagram
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Planning Your Visit

Book Ahead for Events

Customs House hosts a variety of events, from theatre and cinema to weddings and wine walks. Popular events, especially on weekends, can book up quickly. Check their 'What's On' schedule and secure tickets or reservations in advance to avoid disappointment. Instagram

Embrace the Views

The venue boasts stunning harbour foreshore views, especially from its beer garden and verandah. Plan your visit to coincide with good weather to fully appreciate the picturesque setting and enjoy outdoor seating. Reddit

Best Times

When
Summer afternoons
Why
Enjoy the sunny beer garden
Crowd
Medium
When
Friday & Saturday evenings
Why
Drinks overlooking the harbour
Crowd
High
When
Event days
Why
Catch theatre or cinema
Crowd
High

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Nick Woltemade goal penalty/#nickwoltemade #woltemade #newcastle #penalty #CapCut
@goaltoday.10
882.8K likes • 10.5M views

🎯 Book Wedding/Events Early

Highly recommended for events due to amazing staff & food. Book the Harbourmasters Lounge for its beauty! Reddit

☀️ Enjoy the Beer Garden

Perfect spot for drinks with friends, soaking up the sun and harbour views. Live music in summer! Reddit

#foryou #fypシ #foryoupage #newcastle #airbnb #ukstaycation #airbnbfinds #henparty #stagdo #capcut #homerenovation #homestead
@tynehouse
64.4K likes • 1.3M views
It’s that time again! Let’s see what’s going on here at The Customs House… Andy is back to tell you all about it! THEATRE: The Spice Girls Experience, Fri 16 The Opera Boys, Sat 17 CINEMA: The Amateur, all week The Friend, all week A Minecraft Movie, weekend You can find the links to all of these shows and screenings up on our WHATS ON instagram highlight, or visit www.customshouse.co.uk Se...
customshousesouthshields
57 likes • 2.4K views

🎭 Check 'What's On' Schedule

See theatre, cinema, and special events. Book tickets in advance for popular shows. Instagram

🍷 Urban Wine Walk

Participate in this popular event visiting various wineries, including one at Customs House. Instagram

From Vision to Reality ✨🎥Watch as we bring this couple’s dream ceremony to life at Customs House, Newcastle! From the first ideas in our showroom to this stunning setup on the big day, every detail was designed with their vision in mind. Seeing it all come together is pure magic! 💛📍Customs House #WeddingStyling #CustomHouseNewcastle #BringingVisionsToLife #StyledWithLove
michelleanddustyweddings
9 likes • 149 views

Tips

from all over the internet

🎯 Book Wedding/Events Early

Highly recommended for events due to amazing staff & food. Book the Harbourmasters Lounge for its beauty! Reddit

☀️ Enjoy the Beer Garden

Perfect spot for drinks with friends, soaking up the sun and harbour views. Live music in summer! Reddit

🎭 Check 'What's On' Schedule

See theatre, cinema, and special events. Book tickets in advance for popular shows. Instagram

🍷 Urban Wine Walk

Participate in this popular event visiting various wineries, including one at Customs House. Instagram

🍽️ Bistro Dining

Bella's Bistro offers delicious Mediterranean meals with a great outlook from the balcony. InstagramReddit

What Travellers Say

4.2
(804 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Customs House is widely celebrated as an iconic Newcastle gem, lauded for its stunning harbour views, historic architecture, and excellent service, particularly for events and weddings. While the food at Bella's Bistro is generally praised, a few diners have found specific dishes to be overpriced or underwhelming. Reddit+2

"We booked Customs House Hotel for our wedding and we couldn’t recommend it more! We booked their Harbourmasters Lounge because of its beautiful wooden floors and natural beauty. Hannah was amazing at answering all of our questions and keeping us organised the day of! The staff throughout the night were amazing, the girls serving us went above and beyond and were so polite and nice to talk to and the food was amazing! I would highly recommend booking Customs House Hotel for any event."

Sophie Webster

"This beautiful, historic venue has it all. Overlooking the harbour foreshore, it's spacious beer garden is the perfect place to relax & enjoy drinks with friends, whilst soaking up some afternoon sun.

The picturesque setting with the fountains, & glorious vistas of the foreshore & harbour really make time spent here extra special.

Whether it be a cold beer, cocktail, lunch or dinner, this is definitely one of Newcastle's iconic gems that must be experienced.

As well as the sunny beer garden, (where live music plays during the summer months) as you walk up the steps, a grand verandah greets you with more seating options.

Stepping inside, you'll be blown away further by it's historic, ornate interior. Take time to look around & savour all it's delights.

I had lunch here a year ago & the food was top notch. My most recent visit was a week ago for some afternoon Birthday drinks in the beer garden.

The staff & service here is fantastic, & I couldn't recommend Customs House more for your next Newy experience."

Helen Bennett

"Wow you have got to go and try this place. Today we decided to venture to this excellent venue for a set price luncheon. It was absolutely delicious and the venue has an amazing outlook from the balcony out the back. This place is excellent for Friday and Saturday drinks overlooking the harbour. I would definitely recommend you check out Customs House. To all the staff your service was excellent and very polite staff just perfect thank you for looking after us for our luncheon."

Greg Hodson

What People Like

Stunning harbour views
Historic architecture
Excellent event venue

What People Dislike

Inconsistent food pricing
Some bland dishes

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Customs House is located on the Newcastle foreshore. It's easily accessible by car, with nearby parking options. Public transport, including buses and ferries, also serves the area, offering scenic routes to the venue. Instagram

Yes, there are several parking options available near Customs House, including street parking and dedicated car parks. It's advisable to check local parking regulations and fees. Instagram

Absolutely! Customs House is a pleasant walk from the Newcastle CBD along the beautiful foreshore, offering great views along the way. Instagram

Yes, Customs House is well-served by public transport. Numerous bus routes stop nearby, and ferry services also operate along the foreshore, making it easy to reach. Instagram

For events, consider arriving early to find parking or utilize public transport to avoid any last-minute rush. The foreshore walk is also a lovely option. Instagram

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Entry to the general public areas like the beer garden and bistro is usually free. However, for specific theatre performances, cinema screenings, or ticketed events, advance booking is required. Instagram

Tickets for theatre and cinema can typically be booked through the Customs House website or their box office. It's recommended to book in advance, especially for popular shows. Instagram

Opening hours can vary depending on the day and whether there are specific events. The bistro and bar generally have set hours, while event times are listed on their 'What's On' page. Instagram

Yes, it's advisable to book a table at Bella's Bistro, especially for lunch or dinner, to secure your spot, particularly during peak times or weekends. Instagram

Generally, there are no entry fees for the beer garden. You can enjoy the views and atmosphere, with charges applying only for food and drinks purchased. Reddit

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

Customs House features Bella's Bistro, offering seasonal Mediterranean meals. They also serve drinks, including cocktails and fine wine, with a focus on quality ingredients. InstagramReddit

Yes, Bella's Bistro is the primary dining establishment within Customs House, providing a full menu for lunch and dinner. Instagram

Reviews suggest a range of prices, with some finding the food excellent value for money, while others have noted higher prices for certain dishes like the Sword Fish. Reddit

Absolutely! They offer a selection of beers, cocktails, and fine wines, perfect for enjoying with the harbour views. InstagramReddit

While specific menus aren't detailed, Mediterranean cuisine often includes vegetarian options. It's best to check with Bella's Bistro directly for current dietary offerings. Instagram

📸 📸 Photography

The harbour foreshore views, the historic building's exterior and interior architecture, and the fountains offer fantastic photo opportunities. The verandah and beer garden are also picturesque. InstagramReddit

Yes, you are generally welcome to take photos inside the public areas of Customs House to capture its historic charm. Reddit

Many couples choose Customs House for its beautiful setting, making it an excellent location for wedding photography with its harbour backdrop and elegant interiors. InstagramReddit

While general photography is usually permitted, it's always a good idea to check if there are any specific restrictions for private events or performances. Instagram

Golden hour (shortly after sunrise or before sunset) can offer beautiful lighting for outdoor shots of the harbour. Daytime provides clear views, while evenings offer a different ambiance. Instagram

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Customs House is a great spot for families, offering a mix of entertainment and dining. They host family-friendly theatre shows like 'The Sorcerers Suitcase,' which is perfect for younger children with its magic and humour. Instagram The outdoor areas, including the fountain, provide space for kids to enjoy the atmosphere. Instagram Bella's Bistro offers a pleasant dining experience, and the general ambiance of the foreshore is enjoyable for all ages. Reddit

Consider visiting during daylight hours to fully appreciate the harbour views and the outdoor spaces. Checking the 'What's On' schedule for specific family-friendly events or cinema screenings is highly recommended to plan your visit. Instagram

💍 Couples & Event Planners

Customs House is a highly recommended venue for weddings and special events, praised for its beautiful historic setting, amazing staff, and delicious food. Reddit The Harbourmasters Lounge is particularly noted for its natural beauty and wooden floors, making it an ideal choice for ceremonies and receptions. Reddit The picturesque harbour foreshore views and the elegant interior provide a stunning backdrop for any celebration. InstagramReddit

For a romantic outing, consider a dinner at Bella's Bistro with its harbour views, or enjoy a wine tasting during the Urban Wine Walk event. Instagram The venue's blend of historic charm and scenic location makes it a memorable spot for couples looking for a special experience. Instagram

🥂 Foodies & Drink Enthusiasts

Customs House offers a refined culinary experience at Bella's Bistro, known for its seasonal Mediterranean meals and an impressive wine list. InstagramReddit The opportunity to dine with stunning harbour views enhances the gastronomic appeal. Reddit The venue also participates in events like the Urban Wine Walk, allowing enthusiasts to sample a variety of wines from different vineyards. Instagram

While most reviews are positive, be aware that some patrons have found certain dishes to be pricey or lacking in flavour. Reddit Nevertheless, for those seeking quality food and drink in an iconic setting, Customs House remains a top choice in Newcastle. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

A Hub for Events and Entertainment

Customs House is more than just a beautiful building; it's a vibrant cultural hub in Newcastle. The venue regularly hosts a diverse range of events, from live theatre productions and cinema screenings to private functions and weddings. TikTok and Instagram content often showcases the lively atmosphere during these events, highlighting performances like 'The Sorcerers Suitcase' for families Instagram and even special wine walks.Instagram The venue's versatility makes it a popular choice for both local entertainment and significant life celebrations. InstagramReddit

For those planning a visit, checking the 'What's On' schedule is crucial. This ensures you don't miss out on any upcoming theatre shows, film screenings, or special events. The venue's ability to transform for different occasions, from intimate art painting sessions Instagram to larger gatherings, underscores its importance in Newcastle's social calendar. Instagram

Beyond scheduled events, Customs House also serves as a gathering point for community activities. For instance, it has been a meeting point for climate strikes, demonstrating its role in local activism and community engagement. Instagram This multifaceted use of the space highlights its significance as a central point for culture, celebration, and community in Newcastle.

Culinary Delights with a View

Bella's Bistro, located within Customs House, offers a delightful dining experience with a focus on seasonal Mediterranean cuisine. Diners frequently praise the quality of the food and the stunning outlook from the balcony, making it an ideal spot for lunch or dinner. InstagramReddit The menu features dishes like porchetta and fresh seafood, complemented by a selection of fine wines and cocktails, perfect for enjoying the picturesque harbour views. Reddit

While many reviews highlight the delicious food and excellent service, some patrons have noted that certain dishes, like the Sword Fish, were perceived as bland and overpriced by some. Reddit Despite these occasional critiques, the overall sentiment leans positive, with many recommending the venue for its food, ambiance, and the overall experience. Reddit

The beer garden and verandah areas are particularly popular for drinks and casual dining, especially during warmer months when live music often features. Reddit This makes Customs House a versatile destination, whether you're looking for a fine dining experience, a casual drink with friends, or a place to soak in the Newcastle atmosphere. Reddit

A Historic Gem Overlooking the Harbour

Customs House, an elegant 1877 building, stands as a significant landmark on Newcastle's harbour foreshore. Its historic, ornate interior and picturesque setting with fountains and glorious vistas make it a truly special place to visit. Reddit The venue's architecture and prime location contribute to its iconic status in Newcastle. Instagram

Visitors often marvel at the building's grandeur, with many recommending taking time to explore its delights. Reddit The spacious beer garden and verandah offer ample seating, providing perfect spots to relax, enjoy drinks, and soak up the afternoon sun while overlooking the bustling harbour. Reddit

This historic venue is not only a place of beauty but also a functional space that hosts a variety of events, from weddings to community gatherings, further cementing its role in the city's landscape. InstagramReddit Its blend of historical significance and stunning natural surroundings makes it a must-experience destination in Newcastle. Reddit

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