Benwell, Old

Settlement in Northumberland

England

Benwell, Old

Crossing the River Tyne at Blaydon Two more bridges further down the river - the nearer is the old Scotswood Railway Bridge while the farther one is Scotswood Road Bridge. — Crossing the River Tyne at Blaydon Credit: Eirian Evans

Benwell is a small village located in the county of Northumberland, England. Situated in the western part of the county, it lies approximately three miles west of the city center of Newcastle upon Tyne. Historically, Benwell was a part of the larger township of Elswick, but it became a separate entity in the early 19th century.

The village is known for its rich history, with evidence of human settlement dating back to Roman times. The remains of a Roman fort, known as Condercum, can still be seen in the area. This fort played a significant role in defending the Roman Empire's northern frontier and served as a base for the Roman army.

In addition to its Roman heritage, Benwell also has a strong industrial background. During the 18th and 19th centuries, the village thrived due to its coal mines and ironworks. Many of the workers in these industries lived in the village, and their presence contributed to its growth and development.

Today, Benwell is a residential area with a mix of housing, ranging from traditional terraced houses to modern developments. The village offers a range of amenities, including shops, schools, and recreational facilities. It is well-connected to Newcastle upon Tyne by public transportation, making it an attractive place for commuters.

Despite its proximity to the city, Benwell retains a sense of community and tranquility. The village's historical significance, coupled with its convenient location, makes it an appealing place to live for those seeking a balance between rural charm and urban amenities.

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Benwell, Old Images

Images are sourced within 2km of 54.972451/-1.674093 or Grid Reference NZ2064. Thanks to Geograph Open Source API. All images are credited.

Crossing the River Tyne at Blaydon

Two more bridges further down the river - the nearer is the old Scotswood Railway Bridge while the farther one is Scotswood Road Bridge.

Eirian Evans

Lemington Gut

Anthony Foster

Blaydon Bridge

Anthony Foster

National Cycle Network milepost at Scotswood

This milepost stands on Hadrian's Cycleway in the shadow of Scotswood Bridge over the River Tyne. This milepost (of the so-called "Welsh" design) was repainted as part of the 2021 repainting program. It used to be green, see NZ1964 : Cycleway Marker.

Oliver Dixon

Elite Emboidery Ltd., Scotswood Road, Bell's Close

Former location of Wesleyan Methodist Centenary Chapel. This was recorded in 2015 ahead of demolition. Link

Andrew Curtis

Lemington Gut from Lemington Bridge

See description here: NZ1964 : Lemington Gut

Andrew Curtis

Lemington Point at low water

Andrew Curtis

Scotswood railway bridge

This rail bridge was built in 1871 and carried rail traffic from the long closed Newcastle/Scotswood line over the river.

Chris Bell

Lemington Point

This spit of land jutting into the river Tyne was formed when the river was diverted in 1876 by the cutting of a new straighter channel across Blaydon haugh. The original river course is in the foreground.

Chris Bell

Sunset behind Scotswood bridge

A sunset behind Scotswood bridge, the bridge sits next to Vickers/BAE systems factory.

Stefan Carlton

Lemington Point and Gut

This view shows the new bridge over the 'gut' or old course of the Tyne (see first geograph Link ).

Alan Fearon

Denton Hall

Inscription on the porch "16AED22" refers to Anthony and Dorothy Errinton. The Hall is now the official residence of the Roman Catholic Bishop of Hexham and Newcastle.

Phil Thirkell