The Cooperage, a historic building dating back to 1430, is the most complete late medieval timber-framed structure in Newcastle.
The house is located on the Quayside in Newcastle upon Tyne, England.
The Quayside is a historic area along the northern bank of the River Tyne, known for its cultural and historical significance.
The Cooperage has a rich history but now faces an uncertain future due to neglect.
The Cooperage’s Remarkable Survival Through the Great Quayside Fire
The Cooperage was originally a merchant’s house.
In 1854, the Great Quayside Fire happened and devasted much of the Quayside area, destroying many buildings and causing extensive damage.
However, some structures, including the Cooperage managed to survive the fire.
Its survival can be attributed to its robust construction and perhaps some good fortune.
Architecture Of The Cooperage
The Cooperage’s architecture, includes ground-floor ceiling timbers reportedly salvaged from a sunken Dutch merchant ship sunk in the River Tyne.
This resilience allowed the building to continue serving various purposes over the centuries, from a merchant’s house to a popular pub in more recent times.
Although a building survey in the 1990s suggests its current form dates to the mid-16th century, its use of stone walls for the ground and first floors reflects Newcastle’s traditional architecture.
In 1974, the building became a public house, famous for its bars and music nights.
Archaeological digs between 2003 and 2005 unearthed well-preserved artifacts from the 14th and 15th centuries, including pottery and a wooden bowl, adding to its historical significance.
Present Condition and Challenges
Despite its rich history, the Cooperage has been neglected since its closure in 2009, leading to significant disrepair.
The building was added to the Historic England Heritage at Risk Register in 2017.
Many efforts by the community action group Save The Cooperage aim to preserve this heritage site, but the building’s private owner, Apartment Group, has shown little interest in its upkeep.
Eerie Ghost Stories Of The Cooperage
The Cooperage is also known for its ghostly tales.
Visitors have reported hearing footsteps on the staircase and shouting when the building was closed.
The Shimmering Girl
People also saw a young girl dressed in a shimmering dress while combing her long blonde hair.
Witnesses claim to have seen her gliding through the rooms, her appearance often accompanied by a sudden drop in temperature.
The Man in the Top Hat
Another frequently sighted spirit is that of a man wearing a top hat, often seen looking out of a second-floor window.
Those who have seen him describe a feeling of being watched and an overwhelming sense of sadness.
The Ghostly Party
Some visitors have reported hearing the sounds of a lively party, complete with music and laughter, emanating from the upper floors.
When they go to investigate, they find the rooms empty and silent.
The Mysterious Cold Spot
In one corner of the building, there is a persistent cold spot that no amount of heating can warm.
People who stand in this spot often feel an unexplainable sense of dread and unease, as if someone—or something—unseen is standing right next to them.