If there’s one thing I like more than a good day out it’s a free day out. One of the perks of my day job is having a discount card that gets me into all the English Heritage sites in the country for free – and my word has that card taken a hammering. Our most recent English Heritage trip was to Tynemouth Priory and even though I’ve been past it loads of times this was the first time I’ve actually had a proper look round inside.

The priory and castle were, or course, stunning, but what intrigued me more were the wartime defences that still remain there.

There’s some really interesting stuff online which goes into the history of the Tynemouth coastal gun batteries. It’s amazing to think that area has been a fortified throughout the ages from the 13th century onwards, and the remaining artillery dates from the first and second world war.

In short, there’s nothing more impressive than a massive gun when you’re four years old.

More info on the military history of the area can be found here, I found it quite an interesting read….

https://www.newcastle.gov.uk/wwwfileroot/legacy/regen/locallist/tyne_and_wear_defence_sites.pdf

I love this kind of architecture, and I also think it would make a great backdrop for a photo shoot. I’m working on a portrait exhibition currently, so if you’re interested in having a unique and quirky photo of yourself then get in touch! You can see more of my work at www.helentaylorphotos.com or visit my facebook page.