Elswick Hall

Description

In 1337 the prior and monks of Tynemouth were attacked and besieged in their house at Elswick by men from Newcastle. Many years later, in 1575/6, a lease of Elswick tithes refers to "the castle in Elswick lately belonging to Tynemouth". This is the only known reference to a fortification here. A tower seems much more likely than a castle. Since the priory had the manor of Elswick it seems reasonable to suppose that the tower, if it did in fact exist, would have served as the living accommodation of the manor. Perhaps it was incorporated in the old hall at Elswick, which was demolished and replaced by a new one in the early 19th century. (Tyne and Wear HER)

Elswick was granted to Tynemouth Priory in 1120, the monks creating a fortified tower there in the 15th century, although it was not documented until 1576. From the mid 17th century, a mansion was built around the tower and extended, all being called Elswick Hall. This was replaced by the last Elswick Hall in 1810, 8 years after John Hodgson became the owner, and was designed by William Stokoe. Between 1877 and 1930 it became an art galery. Demolished 1978, the site now being occupied by swimming baths. (PastScape ref. John Dodds)

Comments

Presumably on site late occupied by Elswick Hall (A Grade 2-star listed building demolished in 1978!)