The port of Blyth dates from the 12th century, but the town of Blyth didn't really begin until the start
of the 18th century. The original main industries of coal mining, ship building, salt and fishing have
largely disappeared, but the port still thrives on importing paper and pulp from Scandinavia.
The Quayside has been redevelopment and transformed into a peaceful open space, featuring a sculpture
"The Spirit of the Staiths", commemorating the industry that once thrived here.