Great British Cities with Susan Calman S01E02 - Newcastle

This week, Susan explores Newcastle. Her adventure begins at Newcastle Castle where resident historian Dave Silk reveals the sinister story of William Heron – a roguish sheriff who ruled over the people of Newcastle with an iron fist.

Susan marvels in the Georgian splendour of the city centre with local guide Amanda Hepburn. They delve into the incredible life and work of 19th Century builder Richard Grainger, who transformed the slums of Newcastle into the architectural jewel known as ‘Grainger Town'.

Next, Susan meets up with Horrible Histories author Terry Deary at St Andrew's Parish Church. Here she uncovers the terrible story of the largest single execution of witches in England, and discovers they are buried right beneath her feet.

Susan heads to the Tyne where local historian Richard Stevenson reveals the story of ‘The Great Fire of Gateshead and Newcastle' – a tragic event that caused greater loss of life than ‘The Great Fire of London,' but is to this day far less well known.

She gets inspired at the Lit & Phil Society where she learns about the invention of the lightbulb. Member Paul Gailiunas is on hand to unpick the intriguing battle between inventors, Joseph Swan and Thomas Edison.

Next, Susan ventures deep underground to uncover the mystery of the Victoria Tunnel with guide Trish Craighead, who reveals how the tunnel, constructed to transport coal, ended up saving the lives of thousands of Geordies during the Second World War.

Susan then delves into the story of the Carpathia with journalist Ken Smith and discovers how a small ship built on the banks of the Tyne rescued the only survivors of Titanic.

Finally, Susan heads to tranquil Jesmond Dene with historian John Glendinning, who shares the enticing story of William Armstrong – botanist, philanthropist, and the world's first international arms dealer.