In Roman times the Vallum, a defensive barrier behind Hadrian's Wall, reached its easternmost limit in Elswick.

The township of Elswick had originally formed part of the Barony of Bolam and was owned by Tynemouth Priory from 1120 to 1539, with a fishery present on the site.

[3] One of the earliest references to the coal mining industry of the north east occurs in 1330, when it was recorded that the Prior of Tynemouth let a colliery, called Heygrove, at "Elstewyke" for a rent of £5 per year.

[5] Elswick changed significantly in the late 19th century with the extension of the railway from Carlisle to Newcastle in 1839 and the establishment of Armstrong's manufacturing works in 1847.

It was located at the western end of the Elswick Works, whose workforce made up a significant proportion of travellers.

The area suffered as a result of the inter-war and subsequent depressions, culminating in the demolition of the Elswick works.

According to a report by The Independent newspaper, unemployment stood at nearly 30% and the area had a widespread problem with drug abuse and arson attacks.