Business Details
23 Years
experience
Your Creative Haven in Newcastle upon Tyne
The Hearth is a vibrant charity-driven hub established in 2004, dedicated to fostering arts, heritage, and culture in Horsley, Newcastle upon Tyne. Our mission is to create a space where creativity thrives through working artist studios, a welcoming caf, and two event spaces available for hire. We offer a dynamic cultural programme featuring workshops, art fairs, open studios, film screenings, music, and performance, designed to connect artists and art lovers. The centres cosy caf serves home-cooked food, providing a relaxed environment to enjoy the inspiring atmosphere.As a charity, we rely on support from visitors, trusts, and the corporate sector to sustain our activities and extend access to the arts. Our commitment to the community is evident through partnerships, subsidised workshops for isolated individuals, and collaborations with local suppliers and artists. With over 20,000 annual visitors, we remain a cornerstone of cultural engagement in the Tyne Valley.
Services
Artist Studios
Event Hire
Workshops
Caf
Film Screenings
Art Fairs
Community Programs
Catering Services
Exhibitions
Music Performances
Details
- Year established: 2003
Highlights and features
- Established charity since 2004 with a proven commitment to arts and heritage.
- Hosts diverse cultural programmes including workshops, art fairs, and live performances.
- Provides affordable artist studios for emerging creative talent in the North East.
- Community-focused with subsidised workshops and partnerships with local organisations.
- Unique Grade 2 listed venue combining historic charm with modern facilities.
What people say
Creative hub
Friendly staff
Unique artworks
Charming venue
Engaging events
Services
Artist Studios
The Hearth provides affordable studios for eight professional artists, offering visitors a chance to observe creative processes. Artists work in diverse mediums including printmaking, ceramics, and textiles. The studios host open weekends and fairs, allowing direct interaction with creators.
Event Hire
The Hearth Hall and Hub are hireable spaces for workshops, concerts, and private functions. The Hall features heritage architecture with modern amenities, while the Hub offers a garden-facing setting. Both spaces support cultural and community activities.
Workshops
Regular workshops cover art, craft, and heritage skills, led by experienced tutors. Courses include painting, printmaking, and textile arts, catering to all skill levels. Sessions aim to foster creativity and provide hands-on learning experiences.
Caf
The Hearth Caf serves home-cooked meals, coffee, and cakes in a welcoming environment. Run by Kevin Farren and Alanna Nash, it offers sit-in, takeaway, and event catering services, using locally sourced ingredients where possible.
Art Fairs
Bi-annual fairs showcase original artworks and crafts from resident and guest artists. Events feature live demonstrations, interactive activities, and opportunities to purchase unique items. Fairs aim to celebrate local creativity and build community connections.
People
Kevin Farren
Caf Manager
Co-manager of The Hearth Caf with Alanna Nash, Kevin brings hospitality expertise and a commitment to community-focused service. He ensures the caf remains a welcoming hub for visitors and locals alike.
Alanna Nash
Caf Manager
Co-manager of The Hearth Caf, Alanna contributes to its reputation for excellent hospitality and home-cooked food. She works closely with local suppliers to maintain the cafs community-centric ethos.
Lindsey Joy
Arts Centre Administrator
Lindsey oversees administrative operations at The Hearth, managing bookings, communications, and event coordination. She plays a key role in ensuring smooth day-to-day running of the centre.
Steven Duckworth
Trustee
Steven supports funding development initiatives at The Hearth, working to secure grants and partnerships. His role involves building relationships with funding bodies to sustain the charitys programmes.
Questions
What cultural events does The Hearth host?
We host art fairs, open studios, film screenings, live music, workshops, and community events throughout the year.
Can I visit artist studios at The Hearth?
Yes, eight resident artists welcome visitors during open weekends or by appointment via our online calendar.
Are The Hearth’s spaces available for hire?
Yes, the Hearth Hall and Hub can be booked online for events, meetings, workshops, and private functions.
Does The Hearth Café require reservations?
Walk-ins are welcome, but we recommend booking in advance to guarantee seating, especially during busy periods.
How does The Hearth support the local community?
We run subsidised workshops, collaborate with local artists and suppliers, and distribute craft kits to isolated individuals through partnerships.
Is The Hearth accessible for wheelchair users?
The ground floor areas including the café and hall are accessible, but artist studios require stairs. Accessible parking is available.
