Ryton Pinfolds

Pinfolds are a recent discovery for us and we had no idea there were two still standing in the west of Gateshead. This area has revealed itself to be full of history and we have found some real gems here of late.

Ryton Pinfold is a Grade II listed building in Ryton. It is a small, dry-stone enclosure that was once used to impound stray animals. The pinfold is located at the junction of Barmoor Lane and River Lane, in the heart of Ryton Old Village.

The exact date of construction of Ryton Pinfold is unknown, but it is thought to date back to the 12th century. The pinfold was originally owned by the local lord of the manor, who would use it to impound stray animals from his tenants. The animals would be kept in the pinfold until their owners came to claim them, and a fine would be levied for their release.

In the 18th century, the responsibility for maintaining Ryton Pinfold was transferred to the local parish council. The pinfold continued to be used to impound stray animals until the early 20th century, when it fell into disrepair.

In 1974, Ryton Pinfold was restored by the Ryton Heritage Group. The group repaired the dry-stone walls and rebuilt the entrance gate. The pinfold was also cleaned and tidied up, and a plaque was erected to commemorate its history.

Just down the road in Crawcrook, there is another pinfold. In recent years, this pinfold has been restored and improved. The walls have been repaired and the interior has been cleared of vegetation. A new plaque has been installed, which tells the history of the pinfold. There are also now a number of benches in the pinfold, making it a lovely spot to sit and enjoy the scenery.

If you fancy a quick visit to the Crawcrook pinfold, you can park up in the village and walk along.

The pinfold itself is located at ///improving.remote.souk

You'll find a couple of parking spaces at ///ahead.fantastic.stump.

I couldn't find too much more info about the pinfolds, but read that there was one in the Heworth area of Gateshead. I'm not sure whether it still exists, so if anyone knows, please let us know. Keep us posted if you spot any others in Gateshead too!