Newcastle was surrounded by a defensive wall during the 13th & 14th centuries in order to defend the City from the Scots. Originally over 2 miles long with six main gates and surrounded by a ditch, the West Walls are the only significant section remaining.

So successful were the defences, they were only breached once in 1644 during the English Civil War by the Scots. After that they gradually fell into disrepair and were partially demolished as they were no longer deemed necessary. Today you can get a good idea of how they looked by walking round the outside, starting either at Gallowgate, where one of the original gates was located, or Bath Lane at the southern end of Stowell Street. Either way you'll pass Herber Tower, Mordern Tower and Ever Tower - Mordern Tower is still occasionally used for poetry readings.

You can see more of the City's Medieval defences by visiting the Black Gate and the Castle Keep above the Tyne near the High Level Bridge.