A new event space in the heart of Newcastle has opened at Ouseburn Farm, overlooking the leafy valley and farmyard animals.

The event space, which was set to open just months after the start of the pandemic, officially opened its doors last week, and is now available to book for everything from board meetings and team training days to weddings and birthday celebrations.

Nestled in the vibrant Ouseburn Valley, the multi-use space features exposed wooden beams and floor to ceiling windows, allowing the natural light to pour in while offering expansive views across the farm, its gardens and the flourishing valley.

Hugh Stolliday, Ouseburn Farm manager, said: “Ouseburn Farm is a place for growing; plants, animals, but most of all people. This new space gives us the opportunity to host a wide range of events and serve our community by providing a space to gather, meet and grow.”

Supported by funding from Newcastle City Council, The Malings Fund and the Catherine Cookson Foundation, Ouseburn Farm have converted two unused offices into one large event space, providing a blank canvas for those wishing to book it.

Accommodating up to 50 people theatre style, 30 people cabaret style, or 20 in a board room configuration, the room provides use of a big-screen TV, Wi-Fi, and catering options including refreshments, brunch, lunch and afternoon teas.

Nick Kemp, leader of Newcastle City Council, said: “Ouseburn Farm offers an open space, and at a time when people are in actual crisis for many reasons, the space is embracing and welcoming. The work that takes place here, engaging with adults and young people with learning difficulties is extremely important.

“The Valley belongs to the city, and this is a model of what can happen working in partnership with Newcastle City Council. We’re proud to have supported Ouseburn Farm and this fantastic space, and we’re committed to working in partnership with organisations that are inclusive, diverse and engaging communities.”

Ouseburn Farm is a working community farm and charitable subsidiary of Tyne Housing, popular with families visiting the likes of Susie the pig, Willow the cow and Robson and Jerome the goats, as well as the gardens full of vegetables, flowers and beehives.

As a charity, Ouseburn Farm will reinvest all the profits from the event space into charitable programmes, including caring for the resident farm animals and working with vulnerable adults to deliver placements and opportunities to learn new skills and connect with nature and the local community.

Steve McKinlay, CEO of Tyne Housing, said: “The new event space at Ouseburn Farm is a fantastic addition to the already bustling visitor attraction, education centre and training facility. Tyne is delighted to support the farm and we’re certain this new space will diversify its income and further enhance its social value.”

To find out more about Ouseburn Farm, visit: https://www.ouseburnfarm.org.uk/

To make an enquiry about booking the Ouseburn Farm event space, email [email protected]