Sports Archive.
Sandhill, Bullring
qu01
Last Updated:
16 Sept 2022
Bull Baiting
Home Teams & Clubs:
Opened:
Closed:
1768
Redeveloped
Condition:
Newcastle
54.968428, -1.606926
NEHL - Bull baiting took place on this spot up until 1768, though continued in other parts of the town. The bullring was found and excavated in the 19th century and now stands in the Garrison Room of the Castle Keep.
Bull baiting involved a bull tied to the ring. Spectators would bet on one of a number of dogs who would hold onto the bull's nose for the longest. It was a brutal sport and was outlawed in 1835.

Ordnance Survey, 1864
The bullring can be seen during excavations in this shot.
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Historic Environment Records
Durham/Northumberland: Keys to the Past
Tyne and Wear: Sitelines
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