After extensive renovations that were completed early in 2024, Aspire unveiled their new three tier lounge concept. The Lounge Is the largest of the three spaces, and the lowest of the three tiers. The second is called Luxe and caters predominantly to business class passengers and cannot be booked for cash, however, a cash upgrade from The Lounge is available. The third and highest tier of lounge is called The Suite which is a secluded space within the Luxe lounge and offers table service. This lounge caters predominantly to Emirates passengers. Paid upgrades are available from Luxe to The Suite.
Location and Opening Hours
the lounge is located past security and is found on the left-hand side of the walkway as you head towards the gates.
The lounge is generally open from 4 am to 9 pm although these hours vary slightly by season. The lounge will also stay open late if there are major delays.
Reception
The manned reception is clean and bright, as would expect for a newly renovated area. The reception desk is immediately ahead of you upon entry. To the left is the Luxe and Suite areas, and to the right is The Lounge. The staff in the Newcastle Aspire lounge are absolutelyfabulous, friendly, approachable, and chatty.
The Lounge
This is the largest of the three areas and features a wide range of seating, a manned bar, large food buffet area. Bottom shelf drinks are free of charge, premium brands attract a small charge.
Luxe
The Luxe area is smaller than The Lounge and features a number of distinct areas, along with the separate The Suite offering. Drinks in this lounge are free pour and feature the premium brands for which The Suite charges an uplift. The food offering is almost identical to The Lounge. Luxe has its own unisex toilets.
Suite
Suite is a small partitioned area encapsulated within Luxe. Its has a completely different food offering and features table service. Although you can help yourself to food and drink from the Luxe buffet and bar, there is no reason to do so, the Suite offering is far better.
Conclusion
All three lounges offer a comfortable experience and environment in which to wait for your flight. If you are at the airport particularly early and have access to the Luxe lounge, I would recommend upgrading to Suite for the greatly enhanced food. Unless the standard lounge was particularly busy, I would not recommend upgrading to Luxe as there is very little difference in the overall provision.