Black Friars Postern Gate Plaque, Newcastle upon Tyne
Discover the historic gateway of Newcastle’s Blackfriars, a medieval postern granting access through ancient town walls to the Dominican friars’ gardens.
The Black Friars Postern Gate Plaque marks the historic site of a medieval postern gate built in 1280 for the Dominican friars, known as Blackfriars, in Newcastle upon Tyne. This small but significant landmark commemorates the friars’ special access through the town wall to their gardens, linking to the rich medieval heritage of the city’s defensive structures and religious communities.
A brief summary to Black Friars Postern Gate Plaque
- 38-42 Stowell St, Newcastle upon Tyne, NE1 4XQ, GB
- Duration: 0.25 to 1 hours
- Free
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
Local tips
- Visit early morning or late afternoon for the best natural lighting to photograph the plaque and surrounding town wall.
- Combine your visit with a walk to nearby medieval landmarks such as Morden Tower and Heber Tower for a fuller historical experience.
- Take time to read the plaque’s inscription carefully to appreciate the significance of the friars’ special access rights.
- Check for local heritage events or guided tours that include the Black Friars Postern Gate and surrounding medieval sites.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Information Boards
- Seating Areas
- Trash Bins
Getting There
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Bus
Take bus number 1 or 2 from Grainger Town towards the city centre. Alight at the Stowell Street stop, then walk approximately 2 minutes along Stowell Street to reach the plaque. Bus fares are around £2.00 for a single journey, and services run frequently throughout the day.
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Walking
From Grainger Town, walk east along Grainger Street towards Grey Street, then continue to the junction with Stowell Street. Follow Stowell Street for about 5 minutes on flat, paved terrain suitable for most visitors to reach the plaque.
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Taxi
A taxi ride from Newcastle city centre to 38-42 Stowell Street typically takes 5 to 10 minutes depending on traffic. This option offers direct and convenient access but may be subject to peak hour delays and fares usually start around £5.
Black Friars Postern Gate Plaque location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Rain / Wet Weather
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Clear Skies
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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about Black Friars Postern Gate Plaque
Medieval Origins and the Dominican Friars
The Black Friars Postern Gate Plaque commemorates a minor gateway constructed in 1280 through Newcastle’s medieval town wall. This postern was granted by royal licence to the Dominican friars, known locally as the Blackfriars due to their distinctive black cloaks over white habits. The gate provided the friars with direct access from within the fortified town to their gardens beyond the walls, a privilege reflecting their status and presence within the city. The friary itself was established around 1239 and was one of Newcastle’s oldest religious institutions, serving the community until the Dissolution of the Monasteries in 1539.The Town Wall and Defensive Context
Newcastle’s town walls, built in the late 13th century, were formidable defenses designed to protect the prosperous town from Scottish raids and other threats. Stretching over two miles, the walls featured thick stone construction with towers and multiple gates. The Black Friars Postern was situated between Heber and Morden Towers, nestled within this historic curtain wall. Though modest in scale compared to main gates, the postern’s strategic location highlights the integration of religious institutions within the town’s defensive fabric.Post-Dissolution Use and Legacy
After the Dissolution under Henry VIII, the Blackfriars friary was dissolved and the church demolished, with materials repurposed locally. The remaining buildings were leased to Newcastle’s craft guilds, who used them as meeting places for centuries. The postern gate itself was blocked on its inner face in the late 19th century but remains a scheduled ancient monument, preserving a tangible link to Newcastle’s medieval past. Today, the plaque serves as a reminder of the friars’ historical presence and the city’s layered heritage.Modern Significance and Visitor Experience
Located at 38-42 Stowell Street, the plaque is a discreet but evocative site for visitors interested in Newcastle’s medieval history. It invites reflection on the city’s religious, social, and military past. Nearby landmarks such as Morden Tower and Heber Tower enrich the historical context, making this area a compelling destination for cultural heritage exploration. The plaque’s inscription offers insight into the friars’ special rights and the town’s defensive arrangements.Architectural and Cultural Highlights Nearby
The area surrounding the plaque features remnants of the medieval town walls and towers, each with its own story. Morden Tower, for example, has evolved from a defensive structure to a cultural venue, while the Blackfriars friary buildings have been repurposed for craft workshops and dining. This blend of preservation and adaptive reuse illustrates Newcastle’s commitment to honoring its past while fostering contemporary cultural life.Preservation and Commemoration
The Black Friars Postern Gate Plaque is protected as a scheduled ancient monument, ensuring its conservation for future generations. It stands as a testament to the enduring legacy of the Dominican friars and the medieval town’s defensive ingenuity. The site is part of Newcastle’s rich tapestry of historical landmarks that collectively narrate the city’s evolution from medieval stronghold to modern urban center.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Morden Tower
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Herber Tower
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Oriental Garden
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Blackfriars Medieval Friary
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Durham Tower
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Richard Grainger Memorial Fountain
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St John the Baptist Church
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Grey St
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Grainger Market
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Grainger St
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Essential places to dine
Blackfriars Restaurant
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Red Mezze
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Côte Newcastle
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
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Tian's Gifts
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Analog
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Vintagera.co.uk
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Living Essential
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Geordie Gifts
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Phillips & Wilde
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Little Bazaar
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The Yesterday Society Vintage Boutique
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
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Bar Loco
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Nightclubs & after hour spots
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For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Historic
- Tranquil
- Scenic
- Unique
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- Heritage Neighborhoods
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
For the social media creator & influencer
- Photo Spots
- Architectural Shots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Protected Area
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Locally Managed
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Day Trip
- Weekend Getaway
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
