Hexham: The Complete Guide

Hexham is a market town and civil parish in the south west of Northumberland, England, on the south bank of the River Tyne which forms by the confluence of two rivers: the North Tyne and the South Tyne. A visit to Hexham is like stepping back in time, with its cobbled streets, medieval architecture, and the magnificent Hexham Abbey, which dates back to the 7th century. This historic abbey is a must-see, with its stunning stained glass windows, ancient crypt, and tranquil gardens. As you wander through the town, you’ll discover a delightful mix of independent shops, traditional pubs, and quaint cafes, offering a perfect blend of old-world charm and modern amenities.

Beyond its historical allure, Hexham is also a gateway to some of the most picturesque landscapes in Northumberland. The nearby Hadrian’s Wall, a UNESCO World Heritage site, offers a glimpse into Roman Britain and provides excellent hiking opportunities with breathtaking views. Tyne Green Country Park is another outdoor gem, perfect for leisurely walks, picnics, and enjoying the serene riverside setting. Whether you’re a history enthusiast, nature lover, or simply looking for a peaceful escape, Hexham offers a rich and varied experience that will leave you enchanted.

History of Hexham

Hexham: Early Beginnings

Hexham’s history dates back to the 7th century when it was founded by Wilfrid, a Northumbrian bishop. The town quickly became an important religious center.

Hexham: Medieval Times

In the medieval period, Hexham was granted market town status, which led to its growth and prosperity. Hexham Abbey, a centerpiece of the town, was rebuilt in the 12th century.

Hexham: Industrial Era

The Industrial Revolution brought changes to Hexham, with developments in wool and leather industries. The town’s market remained a central hub for trade and commerce.

Hexham: Modern Day

Today, Hexham is a thriving town with a rich heritage, blending its historical roots with modern amenities and attractions, making it a popular destination for tourists.

Visiting Hexham for the first time and wondering what are the top places to see in the city? In this complete guide, I share the best things to do in Hexham on the first visit. To help you plan your trip, I have also included an interactive map and practical tips for visiting!

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This complete guide to Hexham not only tells you about the very best sights and tourist attractions for first-time visitors to the city but also provide insights into a few of our personal favorite things to do.

This is a practical guide to visiting the best places to see in Hexham and is filled with tips and info that should answer all your questions!

Chester Roman Fort and Museum

Public Domain / Steven Fruitsmaak

Cilurnum is considered to be the best preserved Roman cavalry fort along Hadrian's Wall. The site is now preserved by English Heritage as Chesters Roman Fort. There is a museum on the site, housing finds from the fort and elsewhere along the wall. Cilurnum or Cilurvum was a fort on Hadrian's Wall mentioned in the Notitia Dignitatum. It is now…

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Location: Chesters Roman Fort and Museum - Hadrian's Wall B6318 Chollerford Hexham NE46 4EU United Kingdom | Hours: 10.00 - 17.00 | Distance: 6.4km

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Visiting Chester Roman Fort and Museum

Click here to read our blog about Hadrians Wall - Day 4 - Cawfields to Chollerford

Pike Hill Signal Tower

CC BY-SA 2.0 / Mike Quinn

Pike Hill Signal Tower was one of, a number of signal towers, that were built on high ground overlooking the Roman Stanegate road, the Roman road between Corbridge and Carlisle, in northern Britannia during the early 2nd century. The watchtowers were built on high ground with commanding views, and used for signalling to the Stanegate forts and other towers. Here…

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Location: Pike Hill, Brampton, Cumbria, CA8 2BX | Hours: Open any reasonable time during daylight hours. | Price: £2 parking charge applies to non-members | Website | Distance: 35.2km

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Visiting Pike Hill Signal Tower