The Metro Arena The Metro Radio Arena Newcastle is the largest concert and exhibition venue in the North East of England. The 11,000 plus seater purpose built Metro Radio Arena Newcastle (formerly the Newcastle Arena) was the brainchild of former Animals stars, late Chas Chandler and his partner in Park Arena, Nigel Stanger. It opened in November 1995 with Basketball, and the first concert was on Thursday December 7th featuring David Bowie. Since it’s opening in November '95, the Metro Radio Arena has quickly established itself as a superb venue and major North East landmark, alongside the Tyne Bridge and Hadrian's Wall. Some of the biggest names in the entertainment world have paraded their talents, featuring the likes of: Oasis, Shirley Bassey, Wet Wet Wet, Phil Collins, Simply Red, Neil Diamond, Diana Ross, AC/DC, Elton John, Michael Flately's Lord of the Dance and the internationally acclaimed Riverdance, Disney on Ice, Shirley Bassey, Tom Jones and Cher. At the Dorset Arms Hotel we always know what’s on and can help you book events that coincide with your trip.