As the defensive need for the walls dwindled it was soon realised that this was the ideal place to build a fancy house. Properties would have views across the river or out to see and owners could step out of their doors and straight onto the walls, the ideal promenade.

The Quay Walls are host to a number of impressive properties but two of particular interest are the Customs House and the former home of Thomas Sword Good.

The Customs House was not originally built for this purpose. Now Grade 1 listed, it was originally a merchant’s house and then, in 1826, it became Berwick’s Dispensary. It was purchased for this purpose for the sum of for £600.

In 1874 a new purpose built infirmary was built outside the walls near to the Greenses and this building was sold. It was only in the 20th century that it became the Customs House and was used as such until the early 2000s.

Thomas Sword Good (1789 – 1872) occupied a house just along the walls from the Customs House towards the Main Guard. The house is adorned with a plaque bearing his name and dates.

The 1871 census shows us that Good lived here at that time. He was 81 years or age and was living there with his wife, Mary. Both were born in Berwick. His occupation is listed as a gentleman but he was well known as an artist.

At various points in his career he exhibited his paintings in London.

Berwick Museum have a number of his works in their collection.