I have strong connections with the maritime history of the River Tyne and to visit this location would mean a lot to me. Having tried several times to be allowed to enter this charitable institution (by prior arrangement) I have still not been welcomed in. They talk of allowing ‘select and limited group of members’ to ‘enjoy’ the heritage within and refer to ‘related privileges’. I’m not one of the privileged few sadly.

I knew very little about Trinity House before this visit. I was aware the London Trinity House was responsible for lighthouses but was unaware that this Trinity House examines all the pilots . An essential role. The building is full of history and sea faring artefacts there is a beautiful chapel accessed through a secret door. Very well presented and informative tour guide made the history come alive. Well worth a visit.