As at many historic ports, it’s only the regularly spaced mooring rings that give a hint of how busy the Newcastle quayside once was.

 

In addition to the sturdy iron rings there are also many smaller hooks set into the quay wall, each with a worn groove alongside where lines or chains secured to the hook gradually chafed the hard stone away.

 

Most of the quayside is now lined with railings and the waterside stone work has become a haven for moss and lichen.  It’s been a good year for moss…