Nigel's Photo Blog

 Image of the Castle Keep at Newcastle-upon-Tyne in N.E. England This evening, I am focusing on Castle Keep in Newcastle-upon-Tyne. The City of Newcastle (in N.E. England) name emanates from this structure which was the second such medieval structure on the site, hence the ‘new castle’. The site has experienced a succession of occupation and use for about 1900 years, viz: Roman fort known as Pons Aelius ( 2nd-5th centuries AD ) Anglo-Saxon cemetery. Site of original motte and bailey castle built by Robert Curthouse in 11th century. Principal tower of existing Castle Keep built by Henry II 1168-78 and enlarged in 13th century. Became isolated and redundant for military purposes in mid 13th century when city wall was completed and thereafter went into decline. Used by Royalist forces during English Civil War in 17th century.  Restored 19th century onwards. The purpose of the structure was twofold: to provide a principal fortification strong point and...

View of east coast village with North Sea This morning, I undertook a rail trip from Glasgow, Scotland to Newcastle-upon-Tyne, England for purpose of commencing (tomorrow) my six day hike along the line of the 1900 year old, Hadrian's Wall. The journey down worked fine with covid compliant rail cars near empty. Weather was a complete reversal of the wet and windy weather of late with brilliant sunshine and blue skies.These conditions made for good photography. Estuary of River Tweed Information on the city of Newcastle can be found here . The following images relate to Newcastle and/or Gatsehead both of which sit on opposite banks of the River Tyne. River Tyne looking east with Newcastle on left and Gateshead on right. This is the 'new castle' after which Newcastle is named.It has origins dating back to 1080 and was built on the site of a 2nd century AD fort built by the Romans. The former Baltic Flour Mill at Gateshead, now a centre for contemporary art. Riverside view fro...