The Metropole Hotel, Gateshead

A group of 5 of us tried to go in here for a drink after finishing a class at the local community centre, staff started shouting as soon as we entered saying we couldn't come in as we were carrying a Berimbau (A brazilian musical instrument). After explaining what it was we were asked to leave in a very unpolite manner. It felt as if darts stopped in mid air, pool balls stopped rolling, and a hushed silence filled the place when we entered, it was all very unpleasant.

But on a very serious note, I suspect the problem had more to do with the fact that not all faces in our group were white. I doubt I'll ever try to get a drink on Gateshead High Street again after this awful experience.

Behind the veneer of the Baltic Quays, the Sage, the Hilton etc (which is all just spill-over from Newcaslte success anyway), there is a very nasty and parochial side to Gateshead.

If you are in these parts, do yourself a favour and get the metro into Newcastle-upon-Tyne, where you'll be warmly welcomed at over 50+ quality pubs & clubs

20 Jul 2005 10:33