Tynemouth

September 17

We really didn't have much happening during the first week (other than a few international introduction events), so we decided to head off to Tynemouth. Tynemouth is an absolutely amazing Medieval site about a 20 minute Metro ride from our flat. You arrive in this town, and it's just totally relaxed and chilled out...not that Newcastle isnt. But compared to Boston or NY, Newcastle is a totally chilled out, friendly city. Tynemouth, though, is like a holiday. The priory (and castle) itself is absolutely fantastic (as the pictures show). We joined the English Heritage association for about 30 pounds each (but worth it, considering admission to most English Heritage sites is 3-6 pounds a person and we'll be visiting as many as possible this year).

But Tynemouth was a Medieval site built originally by the son of William the Conqueror (circa 11th century). The priory was from a bit later, but is still intact as the pictures show. We spent a few hours just touring the grounds of the site. Unlike other historical sites, you can really walk around the grounds, going inside of ruins and not feeling as if you're being stalked (as in Greece). Its pretty incredible to be where people have worshipped for over 900 years and feel connected to the site. Funnily enough, the site has been used fairly continually by the British until about 1987. It's been a meteorology center, a defence (during the 2nd World War), and a barracks. The pictures do due it justice and the following post will continue on the theme. For now "Cheers".