Much of Wallsend's early industry was driven by coal mining. The Wallsend Colliery consisted of 7 pits which were active between 1778 and 1935. In the 1820s the pits became incorporated as Russell's Colliery, which then became The Wallsend and Hebburn Coal Company Ltd. By 1924 the colliery employed 2183 people. Its most prominent manager was mining and railway engineer John Buddle who helped develop the Davy Lamp.
Wallsend has a history of shipbuilding and was the home of the Wigham Richardson shipyard, which later amalgamated to form Swan Hunter & Wigham Richardson, probably best known for building the RMS Mauretania. This express liner held the Blue Riband, for the fastest crossing of the Atlantic, for 22 years. Other famous ships included the RMS Carpathia which rescued the survivors from the Titanic in 1912, and the icebreaker Krasin (launched as Sviatogor) which rescued the Umberto Nobile expedition on Spitsbergen in 1928, when Roald Amundsen perished. Charles Parsons launched his revolutionary Turbinia here in 1884, thus not only revolutionising the navies of the world, but also, through the large-scale production of affordable electricity, making a significant contribution to the modern age.
What's Nearby
-
Oaktree Lodge
Oaktree Lodge in Whitley Bay is the ideal base for Hadrian's Wall, just 15 minutes from Segedunum...
5.13 miles away -
Hedgefield House
Stunning Georgian residence in 3 acres of wooded gardens. Peaceful yet situated 2 miles from...
8.38 miles away -
Houghton North Farm Hostel
Private hostel comprising 6 bunk bed rooms, 2 en suite, with fitted kitchen, lounge and drying...
10.94 miles away -
Wormald House
Pleasant country home located near the centre of Wylam, George Stephenson's birthplace. Wormald...
11.46 miles away
-
Duke of Wellington Inn
The Duke of Wellington Inn is nestled in the Tyne valleys village of Newton just off the A69 near...
16.55 miles away -
Matfen Hall
Matfen Hall is a country house hotel set in Northumberland, adjacent to its own golf course.
17.09 miles away -
2 The Crofts
Traditional large Victorian terrace on edge of Corbridge in quiet location with friendly attention...
18.94 miles away -
Prospect House B&B
Prospect House stands in an acre and a half of garden with patio, barbeque and parking. Good...
19.28 miles away -
Fellcroft
Well-appointed, stone-built Edwardian house. All rooms with private facilities and colour TVs....
19.43 miles away -
Sammy's Hideaway
Just a 3 minute stroll from Hexham town centre. The Beacons is one of three luxury apartments. The...
22.75 miles away -
Seal Cottage
Tucked down a quiet lane within the centre of the historic market town of Hexham, this charming...
23.06 miles away -
Hexham Racecourse Caravan Site
Set in stunning countryside 2 miles from Hexham town centre, the site enjoys views over...
23.92 miles away -
The Hadrian Hotel
The Hadrian, situated close to Hadrian's Wall, dates back to the 19thC and is situated in Wall...
23.96 miles away -
The Dovecote Bed and Breakfast
It is the ideal place for a romantic break or a rural retreat and is the perfect place for walkers....
24.61 miles away -
Leazes Head
Leazes Head is ideally situated minutes from the Hadrian’s Wall National Trail and 0.6 miles from...
24.71 miles away -
Greencarts
Working farm in Roman Wall Country, magnificent views. Log fires, comfortable and friendly...
26.04 miles away