Visit to St Nicholas Cathedral and the Mining Institute in Newcastle upon Tyne
On Monday 23rd June our u3a History Group visited Newcastle upon Tyne for a guided tour of St Nicholas Cathedral and the nearby Mining Institute.
The Cathedral dates largely from the 15th Century and was originally a Parish church. It was designated a Cathedral in the late Nineteenth century and now has a beautiful carved Cathedra or Bishop’s throne.
The guide took our u3a group around the nave; first, and explained many of the memorials that still survive.
In the South Transept was the memorial to Admiral Collingwood, who took charge of the English fleet at Trafalgar after Nelson was mortally wounded – he led the fleet to victory.
After the tour and an excellent lunch the group visited the Mining Institute where the guide led a tour, first to the beautiful library and function room, and then to the lecture theatre. Many famous faces of engineers and scientists were there including George and Robert Stephenson.
The tour ended in the reading room where staff had kindly put on display documents relating to the Londonderry family and the building of the town of Seaham.
Stained Glass Window at St Nicholas Cathedral in blue and white.
A bust of Admiral Collingwood
George and the gang enjoying their seminar.