HISTORY
established 1790
It was in 1790, when the founder of the business, John Turnbull, began work as a cabinetmaker and undertaker on the quayside at North Shields.
Back then, it was horses that provided the transport for the hearses and Turnbull’s also operated as successful coachbuilders and livery owners.
Over the following decades, our funeral services gained an unrivalled reputation for personalised care and professionalism.
Seven generations on, the horses have been replaced by a fleet of beautiful, high quality motor vehicles and the focus of the business is wholly funeral care.
seventh generation
Today Turnbull’s is still the same family-run business. We have grown in size, and our premises have moved into the town of North Shields many years ago, but we still maintain the same exacting standards, individualised care and attention to detail.
Few businesses can claim to have such a long history – and we are proud of our special place in the North Shields community.
We are still a family run business with current managing director Jane Broadhead, daughter of Mr James Turnbull.
THE TEAM
here to support, help and advise
We are here to support and guide you through every detail, helping you create a fitting ceremony and celebration of life.
Everything that we do is built on empathy, choice and providing value. Our belief is that since we’re all unique, our funerals should be too.
When a death occurs we are available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Call us if you need help and advice around bereavement even if not considering us as funeral director.
Call – 0191 257 1201
If you would prefer not to speak to someone just now, complete our online form and we will call you back within an hour.
REVIEWS
what our families say
During a very difficult time Turnbull’s provided a service with utmost professionalism. The team lead by Benjamin were sensitive, caring and assertive to all the family needs during all aspects of the funeral arrangements. We are forever grateful for the service provided and cannot thank them enough. If you are looking for a funeral company that genuinely cares and excels in their service, I wholeheartedly recommend E Turnbull & Son.
Natalie Tait
I cannot fault the service I received from Ben and the team. Everything was seamless and it made a very stressful time easier.
My Dad was given a beautiful send off with great care and consideration. The guidance we were given throughout was first class.
I would highly recommend this company for your loved ones.
Thank you for your compassion.
Amanda McClughin
Turnbull’s have been an enormous help to our family. They offered guidance, advice and support, the funeral was just as Grandma would have wanted. Our thanks to Martyn and all the staff for their compassionate care at such a difficult time.
Rebecca Chapman
I would highly recommend Turnbull’s. They made the process of organising my Mothers funeral as stress free as possible. We can’t thank them enough.
Lewie Armstrong
The staff at Turnbull’s were incredible from the moment I walked in to the funeral home. Martyn took the time to explain the process to me, and was compassionate and understanding throughout.
Steven Farrell
I would not hesitate recommending Turnbull’s. Every detail was taken care of and they offered advice and suggestions every step of the way. The organisation on the day was exceptional, thank you so much to you all.
Debbie Walker
Every member of Turnbull’s staff were incredibly supportive and professional from start to finish for my fathers funeral. There was certainly the personal touch! We would highly recommend their services.
Freddie McKenna
The ability to watch my Aunties funeral live online was such a relief since I was unable to attend. Turnbull’s really did a terrific job and couldn’t be faulted. Thanks to all…
Richard Cross
I would not hesitate to recommend Turnbulls. Having sadly lost my mother in law in late 2022 and then my own mum in December 2023 both times turnbulls acted with utmost professionalism, compassion and a personal touch that made the process so much easier to cope with. You really feel as though you matter to them. Many thanks for making a difficult time, both times, that much easier.
David Thomas