Library Stairs

HER Number:
13358

District:
N Tyneside

Site Name:
Library Stairs

Place:
North Shields

Map Sheet:
NZ36NE

Class:
Transport

Site Type: Broad:
Pedestrian Transport Site

Site Type: Specific:
Steps

General Period:
POST MEDIEVAL

Specific Period:
Post Medieval 1540 to 1901

Form of Evidence:
Documentary Evidence

Description:
A series of steep stairs linked the upper and lower parts of North Shields. The low town along the riverside, at the base of the steep bank was the original medieval settlement, which in the post medieval period became overcrowded and slum-like. In the 18th century fine houses for businessmen and shipowners were built on top of the plateau above Ranters, Magnesia, Naters, Stewarts and Ropery Banks. The banks were also tightly packed with buildings. Library Stairs led to the Tynemouth Literary and Philosophical Society building (HER 9833). The slum dwellings were cleared away but some of the stairs still remain, although not necessarily in their original position..

Easting:
435770

Northing:
568200

Grid Reference:
NZ435770568200

Lats/Lons:

Sources:
North Tyneside Council and Nexus, North Shields Heritage Trail, board 12 'High Town'