For a few years now, North Shields has been radically reimagining its post-industrial landscape, transitioning from its traditional fishing and dock industries into a new era of independent hospitality. At the centre of this cultural shift sits Low Quay Brew Co, located on Northumberland Street.
Established within the hollowed-out shell of a former car repair garage, this venue represents a sophisticated blend of global hospitality expertise and a fierce commitment to local identity. Through the vision of its founders – Scott Taylor, Kamie Sword, and their partner John Good – Low Quay has transitioned from a risky entrepreneurial concept into a cornerstone of the North Shields community. Just a stone’s throw from the Fish Quay, Low Quay has emerged not just as a microbrewery, but as an Aussie – Scandi inspired sanctuary that feels like it’s been part of our town’s furniture for years.
But for founders Scott and Kamie, getting here wasn’t a straight line. It was a journey that took them from their local roots to hospitality roles across Australia and the British Virgin Islands, only to circle back home with a vision for something truly grounded.
“We didn’t just want a place to sell pints,” Scott tells me. “It was about creating a proper neighbourhood hub where the local community could actually connect.”
The spark for the business didn’t come in a boardroom, but at a Sam Fender gig in 2023. A late-night conversation about regional pride shifted their focus and direction to focusing on creating something new in North Shields. They saw an authenticity in the town that you simply can’t manufacture.
When they took over the Northumberland Street unit, the project was a labour-intensive – and at times “nightmare” – process of navigating council hearings and planning permissions. Yet, the choice was strategic. By remaining self-funded and eschewing outside investment, Scott and Kamie have retained control and kept their focus firmly on their “taproom-first” philosophy.
Step inside, and you’ll see the brewing kit in plain view. Unlike modern, automated “push-button” systems, Low Quay relies on a heritage kit acquired from the Stables Brewery at Beamish. It requires physical presence and constant attention, a process Scott describes as a much steeper, more rewarding learning curve. “We’re still learning every day; every time we’re brewing, we’re learning something different,” Scott adds.
“Having such an old kit means you have to learn everything manually,” Kamie explains. It’s an honest approach that results in high-quality, fresh beer that travels only a few metres from the tank to the tap. Transitioning to this larger, heritage-style kit was a leap of faith; “We didn’t have any real experience apart from home brewing,” Scott admits. But they aren’t afraid to experiment either; their 5.8% ‘Driftin’ Hazy Pale is establishing itself as a favourite in the taproom and other local bars around the coast.
Scott and Kamie are refreshingly candid about the economic pressures facing independent businesses today. Between rising energy costs, VAT, and the overhead of maintaining the brewing equipment, the margins are razor-thin.
“It’s not an easy one,” Scott admits, referring to the current economic climate. They manage these pressures not by cutting corners, but by cultivating a “no-pressure” environment that welcomes everyone, whether they are a craft beer connoisseur or someone who prefers a glass of wine or a cocktail. “It’s not just for craft beer enthusiasts,” Scott adds. “It’s for everyone”.
Low Quay fits into a broader, collaborative ecosystem in North Shields. The founders speak warmly of the mutual support from neighbours like Jack at Flashhouse Brewery, the team at 6 Barrels, Three Tanners Bank and The Uncommon. This community spirit is shifting North Shields from a quick stopover into a primary destination for food and drink, and is well on the way to creating a localised ‘beer mile’ that rivals any coastal district in the region.
The future looks bright, though the founders remain committed to a philosophy of “conscious growth.” They are wary of expanding too fast, preferring instead to perfect their current site, which now includes a new outdoor courtyard and a 40-foot shipping container kitchen serving a small-plate menu.
As Kamie reflects on their path – from picking fruit on Australian farms to building a home in the North East – it’s clear they are in this for the long haul. “I’m always conscious that we never want to grow too fast, it’s the single biggest killer of independent hospitality businesses. We have something great here and we will continue to work on keeping it relevant and part of the growing community of independents in Shields,” Kamie says.
Scott and Kamie are establishing deep roots here as they prepare for the imminent arrival of a new baby – a personal milestone that coincides with Low Quay’s second anniversary. More than just a business, the brewery represents their enduring commitment to a town they love. Judging by the vibrant energy on Northumberland Street, it is a venture that deserves all of our support.
Photography by Jess Riley
