Byker has changed massively over the last twenty years. Sitting between the hugely popular areas of Heaton and Ouseburn, it’s become one of the most creative and interesting parts of Newcastle for alternative weddings and events. Once mainly known for the iconic Byker Wall and its reputation as a tough housing estate, the area now has a thriving arts scene, independent businesses, breweries and creative venues popping up all over the place.

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As a Newcastle caricaturist, I’ve worked across the city for years and it’s been brilliant watching Byker evolve into such a vibrant community. I’ve lived in Newcastle for over 20 years myself and even worked as a youth worker in Byker, so it’s genuinely nice to see how much the area has developed while still keeping its character and individuality.

For couples looking for something a little different from the traditional hotel wedding, Byker offers some fantastic spaces that suit relaxed, creative celebrations perfectly. A wedding caricaturist in Byker fits naturally into these kinds of venues too — informal, social and packed with personality.

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Some of the most popular wedding and event venues in Byker include:

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• Tapyard – a creative industrial-style venue that’s become increasingly popular for weddings and parties.

• Tyne Bank Brewery – one of the best-known alternative wedding venues in the area, famous for its laid-back atmosphere, craft beer and live music setting.

• Full Circle Brew Co – a modern brewery venue with loads of character and a great space for relaxed receptions.

• Hoults Yard – home to several creative event spaces and increasingly popular for urban-style weddings.

• The Cluny – technically bordering Ouseburn but close enough to be part of the same creative scene, with a strong music and arts atmosphere.

• The Biscuit Factory – one of Newcastle’s best-known art gallery wedding venues, only a short distance from Byker.

• Northern Rye and other independent spaces around Ouseburn and Byker which are increasingly being used for smaller celebrations and wedding events.

• The Coal Yard, a unique venue between shields road and the ouseburn

The great thing about weddings in Byker is that they tend to feel much more personal and creative than traditional function-room weddings.

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A Newcastle caricaturist working in Byker can fit right into that atmosphere — sketching guests during the reception, adding entertainment between courses and giving people personalised keepsakes to take home.

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With the area continuing to grow in popularity, it feels like Byker is only going to become an even bigger destination for alternative weddings in Newcastle over the next few years.