World Headquarters

World Headquarters, known as WHQ, is an independent nightclub on the lower two floors of Curtis Mayfield House on Carliol Square in Newcastle city centre.

Opened: 1993
Capacity: n/a
Sound: Techno

Tickets and programme All techno clubs

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World Headquarters: quick facts

Checked Sep 2026

Address: Curtis Mayfield House, Carliol Square, East Pilgrim Street, Newcastle upon Tyne NE1 6UF, United Kingdom Directions
Opening hours: Club nights usually 23:00 to 04:00
Opened: 1993 33 years
Rooms: Upstairs and Downstairs
Sound system: Void sound system downstairs; the upstairs room has the club's Sound System Of Dreams
Founders: World Headquarters Ltd

About World Headquarters

World Headquarters, known as WHQ, is an independent nightclub on the lower two floors of Curtis Mayfield House on Carliol Square in Newcastle city centre. The club started in summer 1993 and moved into its current home on 11 March 2003, and it calls itself the longest running club in Newcastle. It describes itself as a Black owned club rooted in the city's original gay and Black music scenes, with multiracial leadership and a female led staff team. Upstairs has wall murals and the club's Sound System Of Dreams, while downstairs has a Void system, a moveable DJ booth and staging for live shows. The music is eclectic, from classic Black grooves to modern electronic styles, and autumn 2026 brings nights such as BLITZ, Teletech and Ross From Friends. Club nights usually run from 23:00 to 04:00.

Door policy

From the club's own rules

The club's entry and conduct rules are posted by the front door and box office. The venue is wheelchair accessible, with a ramp at the entrance, a lift between floors and a quiet space inside.

Where to stay near World Headquarters

Hotels on the map

Curtis Mayfield House, Carliol Square, East Pilgrim Street, Newcastle upon Tyne NE1 6UF, United Kingdom

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Frequently asked questions

What people search about World Headquarters

What time does World Headquarters Newcastle close?

Club nights at WHQ usually run from 23:00 to 04:00, for example BLITZ on 3 October and Teletech on 10 October 2026, and Ross From Friends on 7 November 2026. Some events, such as day parties, keep different hours, so check each listing.

Who owns World Headquarters Newcastle?

WHQ is run by World Headquarters Ltd and describes itself as 100 percent independent. The club says it is Black owned, rooted in Newcastle's original gay and Black music scenes, with multiracial leadership and a female led staff team.

What music does World Headquarters play?

The programme changes every week. WHQ says it blends classic Black grooves with melodic, modern and cutting edge electronic styles, and autumn 2026 runs from techno and hard dance at BLITZ and Teletech to house with Ross From Friends.

How long has World Headquarters been open?

WHQ first opened in summer 1993 and moved into Curtis Mayfield House on Carliol Square on 11 March 2003. It calls itself the longest running club in Newcastle and is now in its fourth decade.