Summerhill Square was developed from the 1820s to around 1840 on former nursery gardens in what was destined to become Newcastle's fashionable west end until William Armstrong built his works at Elswick, causing the aspiring classes (including Armstrong himself) to flee to northern suburbs instead.

The square has hovered between gentility and seediness ever since. The large green central area is bounded by terraces of varying stature on three sides, and by semi-detached villas and the former St. Anne's Convent (Ignatius Bonomi, 1828) along its south side. Members may recall that one of the north side terraced houses (5 Ravensworth Terrace) featured in the second series (2019) of BBC's 'A House Through Time' presented by David Olusoga.

We met in the Clubhouse of the Summerhill Bowling Club, now run by the Summerhill Trust.

Our buffet lunch was provided by Albufiera Café Catering (the cafè is close by the square, on Westgate Road) and will feature Portuguese cuisine.

Getting there: see flyer for map which shows nearby Metro and railway stations (all within 15 minutes' walk).
There is a frequent bus service from Newcastle Central station (see map for route numbers).

If coming by car note that there is no public parking in Summerhill Square and use of the small car park belonging to the Bowling Club is restricted to delivery vehicles and Blue Badge holders only. Parking is available in Blandford Square (just east of Summerhill) or you may get lucky in one of the surrounding streets, as Newcastle United do not appear to be playing at home that day.

For reference: booking form as circulated to members.

 

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