The Anchor Bar reopens four years after devastating fire

Nearly four years after a fire destroyed one of Newcastle’s most beloved venues, The Anchor Bar has officially reopened its doors.

The reopening marks a major milestone for the local community, which has long awaited the return of the historic riverside bar that was reduced to rubble in early 2022.

The blaze, which broke out overnight in January 2022, required more than a dozen fire appliances to bring under control. Fire investigators later confirmed the incident was accidental.

The original building, a long-standing landmark in the town for over a century, was left structurally unsafe and had to be demolished soon after.

In the years since, the owners have completely rebuilt the venue, with the new floorspace expanding from 6,600 square feet to almost 13,200.

The redesign includes a performance area, improved facilities, and a modern layout designed to meet the needs of today’s entertainment and leisure scene.

Announcing the reopening on social media, the owners wrote: “What fire took away, heart and hard work have rebuilt. These walls will come alive — with familiar faces, new stories, and moments that will one day become memories.” The Anchor Bar reopened to the public last week following a complete rebuild.