Peter Laurence is an archaeologist exploring the hidden history and archaeology of the North East.

Hi everyone, You might have noticed we've been incredibly busy updating the website. New maps, new homepage, new layouts. Now time for new walks! Our first Deep Dive Urban Safaris of 2026 are now on sale! This is our set of curated walks, taking in the most fascinating bits of the North East. Shipyards, lost chapels, old coal workings, you name it... even the gruesome bits. Attendees also receive a free, professionally printed handbook which will supplement our walk with maps

That's it for me until after Christmas. I hope you all have a lovely & restful festive period. Also I want to thank everyone who has supported us, whether you're here to flick through our posts or to give us foundational support, it means the world. This year has been a massive success - money raised for children with SEN needs, big expansions on the site and new turf walked across the North East. Also, an incredible amount of support for our walks, socials and the Compendium

From February to October 1644, Newcastle was besieged by a Scottish army while its Royalist defenders held out under Sir John Marlay. Traveller and writer William Lithgow recorded the drama in vivid detail - capturing the chaos, courage and faith that marked one of the most vicious episodes of the Wars of the Three Kingdoms. Our much loved resident contributor and historian Miriam Bibby explores the siege and Lithgow’s extraordinary life within the turbulent world of seventee