WHAT WERE THE MIDDLESBROUGH BLUES PARTIES??? Blues parties were underground, unlicensed house parties that emerged in the 1960s-1980s across the UK, particularly on Teesside in places such as Kensington Road, Hartington Road, Woodlands Road and Princess Road. Usually, these premises would charge a £1 on the door and serve alcohol such as Red Stripe lager and goats curry. These places were seen as a vital, safe social space for the Black Caribbean community. Often hosted in private homes or derel

The Middlesbrough Hydraulic Clock Tower — one of the last industrial landmarks from the old dock system. Built in 1875 to power the hydraulic gear that worked the bridges and cranes, it’s a reminder of how busy this part of town used to be. And yes — the clock really does have only three faces. The side facing the docks was left blank, and nobody ever agreed why. Cost-cutting, dock owners not wanting workers clock-watching… take your pick. The stories are almost as good as the tower itself. A so