Master Mariner's Homes

The Master Mariners Homes, originally called the Master Mariners Asylum, is a Grade II listed building in North Shields. It was built between 1837 and 1840 to provide accommodation for retired and needy seafarers and their wives.

The Master Mariners Homes was founded by the Master Mariners Benevolent Society, a charity established in 1838 to help seafarers in need. The society raised funds for the building through donations from seafarers and their families, as well as from public appeals. In 1902 the society was amalgamated with the Tyne Mariners Institute forming the Tyne Mariners Benevolent Institution.

The architects were John and Benjamin Green and the land for the building was donated by the 3rd Duke of Northumberland. The building is divided into 18 self-contained flats and in order to be considered for one you must be aged 55 or over (or incapable of working), have been living in the Tyneside area for three years, be in housing need and have a minimum of five years sea service, or be the widow of such a person.

Constructed from coursed sandstone with a Welsh slate roof and lead tower roof, it is of a symmetrical, E shaped layout in the Jacobean style and with a central tower. At the frontage of the building is a statue of the 3rd Duke of Northumberland who donated the land on which it was built.

In addition to providing accommodation, the Tyne Mariners Benevolent Institution also offers a range of other services to seafarers and their families. These services include financial assistance, help with finding employment, and counselling. The institution also runs a number of social activities, such as day trips and dinners, to help seafarers stay connected with their community.