Black Gate in Newcastle

...In a comparative state of ruin at the beginning of the 17th century it was converted to domestic purposes and its military character destroyed. Subsequently it was rudely shouldered by houses which abutted upon it, and was almost lost from view. Following on the construction of the railway bridge and consequent development of suitable approaches, much that was picturesque was destroyed, but the outline and aspect of the great gate was revealed.

The castle site declined in military importance over time and the site, excluding the Keep and Moot Hall, was leased by King James I  in 1618 to one of his courtiers; Alexander Stephenson who in turn let accommodation within the castle to various tenants. The Black Gate it is believed derives its name from one such tenant by the name of Patrick Black.

By the middle of the 19th century the Black Gate had been reduced to slum dwellings and accommodated 12 families and a public house on the premises. The first serious rehabilitation of the Black Gate was undertaken by the Society of Antiquaries in 1883. They were leased the property and spent over sixteen hundred pounds repairing and improving it.

The Society of Antiquaries still occupy the Black Gate to this day, using the building as a meeting place and library.

Photo by Chris Tweedy