4 days ago
This city centre pub is buzzing with live acts and events
Potters is a staple of Newport. There's no other way around it.
It sits on the corner of Upper Dock Street, with an unassuming exterior that quickly becomes something entirely different once you step inside.
While most may call in for a quick pint after work or for a delicious meal during a lunch break, may more people flock to Potters during the weekend to make the most of their extensive entertainment options.
The pub becomes a makeshift dancefloor after dark (Image: Facebook) It begins on a Friday evening, when the bottom section of the pub is cleared into a makeshift dancefloor in the late afternoon, before a live band takes over for the remainder of the night. Live music returns every Saturday evening, keeping regulars and newcomers entertained until the early hours.
The venue is over 25s only during these times, allowing those customers that may be a little older feel welcome and giving them their own space in a city with plenty of options for the 'younger crowd'.
Manager Emma Gorvett believes that people want a reason to come out and that the promise of a pint isn't enough anymore – this is why Potters is dedicated to putting on events for their customers every single weekend.
Bands work hard to entertain audiences every weekend (Image: Facebook) It's not just the usual cover bands that Potters will host; they were a part of the 'Pirates of 'Port' sea shanty festival that took place earlier this year and, while many of the regulars weren't too impressed, Emma stands by the fact that you should try anything once.
She said: 'You have to try new things! How will you ever know if they work or not?
'People want a reason to come out and we give it to them.'
Potters' roof terrace is a talking point for most of Newport and a novelty for the city. A DJ takes over the space during the weekend, elevating the peaceful vibes to a party atmosphere.
Their rooftop bar is a novelty for the city (Image: Facebook) Alongside the more traditional entertainment options, wellbeing groups meet in the space during the week. These groups include anything from Veterans and adoption support groups to groups of people that simply meet up every week for a chat.
Emma said: 'They don't treat us like a pub; they use us like a meeting room – it's a really important part of what we do.'
There's a lot of love in Newport and it feels like it starts here in Potters.
