An impromptu invitation to an evening out at Hadrian’s Tipi can sometimes throw you for a loop, but it also presents a perfect opportunity to transform your everyday look into something a bit more glamorous. Last week, a sudden call to join friends for a night out coincided beautifully with some fresh makeup tips I had picked up at an exciting event hosted in collaboration with Urban Decay at Debenhams in Newcastle. With the challenge set, I refreshed my day makeup into an eye-catching evening look and set out.
What You Need To Know About Hadrian’s Tipi Newcastle
Christmas Pop Up
Admittedly, I am not a frequent user of public transport, so my first hurdle was navigating the metro from Monkseaton to Central station. Despite my initial confusion over the correct platform, my spirits were high as I anticipated the evening ahead at Hadrian’s Tipi, an 8-week Christmas pop-up bar uniquely situated at the front of Newcastle’s central station. I was fortunate to receive a sneak preview on Wednesday evening, just a day before its official opening on November 10th.
Hadrian’s Tipi
Upon my arrival at Hadrian’s Tipi, I was instantly taken by the atmosphere. The mastermind behind this festive creation, Nigel Holliday, clearly brought a wealth of experience in erecting such grand structures, having organized a similar event in York the previous year.
The venue, an impressively large tent adorned with twinkling fairy lights, expertly captures the magical ambiance of a European Christmas Market. Upon entering, visitors are immediately enveloped in a festive atmosphere, filled with the joyful sounds of laughter and the gentle clinking of glasses as people toast to the holiday season.
The air is thick with the rich, inviting aromas of seasonal treats like mulled wine, spiced cider, and freshly baked pastries, enticing guests to indulge in the culinary delights. Decorations of holly, ivy, and shimmering baubles hang from the tent’s supports, enhancing the traditional festive feel and transforming the space into a winter wonderland nestled right in the heart of the city.
Rustic Decor
For those looking to immerse themselves in the holiday spirit without resorting to the usual movie marathons of ‘Home Alone’ or ‘Elf,’ Hadrian’s Tipi is the perfect escape. The interior of the tent is a cozy haven featuring rustic, wooden furnishings complete with wicker seating and plush animal fur throws.
The bar offers an impressive selection of drinks, including local Wylam beers whimsically renamed in honor of the Roman Empire. The food menu boasts a variety of continental snacks, with the Bratwurst emerging as a personal favorite of mine due to its authentic flavor and hearty size.
One of the standout features of Hadrian’s Tipi is the central fire pit, which serves as both a source of warmth and a focal gathering point for visitors. Those fortunate enough to secure a spot around the crackling flames are treated to the cozy, intimate glow that only a real fire can offer.
Entertainment
While enjoying the fire’s warmth, guests can engage in spirited conversations, share laughs, and enjoy the rustic charm of the setting. Although sitting close to the fire pit means that your clothes may pick up the lingering scent of bonfire smoke, the enchanting, lively atmosphere it creates is well worth this minor inconvenience. This heartwarming experience is a perfect embodiment of the holiday spirit, making it a cherished moment for all who gather around the fire.
Hadrian’s Tipi proves to be a fantastic gathering place for friends and family, operating nearly all hours throughout its eight-week tenure. It’s an invitation to indulge in a bit of Roman holiday warmth right in the heart of the city.
In closing, Nigel Holliday deserves high praise for bringing such a festive and cosmopolitan vibe to Newcastle’s city center. The spirit of Christmas not only thrives in the heart of Hadrian’s Tipi but also promises to resonate with visitors long after the Tipi has been packed away. Here’s hoping that this becomes an annual tradition, eagerly anticipated and cherished by the community each year.
