Newcastle’s Gay Saunas offer steamy student discount
‘The more you come the more you get’
One of Newcastle’s greatest attributes is its thriving Gay Scene, popularly nicknamed the “Pink Triangle”.
The Scene incorporates a number of different bars and venues to suit all aspects of the LGBT* community, as well as always welcoming straight clientele.
But there are two venues on the Scene that aren’t as well known as Powerhouse, Rusty’s and Switch.
Number 52 and H20 are Gay Saunas: men-only venues where men (18+) can meet other men in a private environment.
Gay Saunas have a strong place in the history of the LGBT community, as they provided a safe environment for men to meet each other, without fear of harassment or attacks from homophobes.
But there is an argument that as attitudes have modernised, the rise of apps like Grindr, as well as the UK having a number of flourishing Scenes, that men don’t need to visit Gay Saunas anymore.
There is also a stereotypical image that they are only used by older men.
But Newcastle’s two saunas are definitely attracting a younger crowd.
Number 52 has also made itself popular with its discounted entry at £5 for those aged 25 and under Monday through Wednesday.
And when asked about the clientèle, the manager of H2O revealed that they attracted “quite a mix” of customers with a large number being male students, especially on a Monday.
Probably because H2O offers discounted entry for students and under 25s Monday to Thursday at £7 (or £9 for non-members).
But one student hasn’t recognised anyone there when he’s been. He said: “When leaving, yeah, maybe I’m a bit worried about seeing a familiar face. But when inside no, not at all.”
“I normally go because I’m drunk and it gives me something to do, especially if I haven’t pulled.
“I don’t really have a favourite. People don’t go there to talk.”