This market town in Northumberland is ideal for history buffs and nature-lovers, home to plenty of impressive monuments, walking trails and within close proximity of one of the UK’s most iconic ruins
The UK certainly has no shortage of picturesque destinations to explore, but if you are trying to avoid the summer crowds you’ll need to expand your horizons. Instead of opting for hotspot staycation sites like the Cotswolds and the Lake District, consider a trip to Northumberland – this one spot in particular.
Hexham in Northumberland is a petit market town that has been highlighted as a top staycation destination by the travel blog The Crazy Tourist, as previously reported by The Mirror. Located 25 miles from Newcastle, the town is home to about 13,000 residents and attracts about 120,000 visitors annually.
Situated between the Northumberland National Park and the North Pennines National Landscape, visitors will have plenty of stunning vistas and landmarks to explore. Hexham is also home to family-friendly parks and green spaces, including the Sele, Hexham House and the beloved Hexham Abbey grounds.
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Originally built in 674AD with materials repurposed from Roman ruins, Hexham Abbey was rebuilt in the 13th century. Markers of the grounds’ Roman history are present in the form of pagan dedications as well.
Hexham Abbey has restored much of its medieval monastery complex – the Priory Buildings – to an impeccable standard. The impressive buildings are fully licensed premises and can thus be rented out as an event space for weddings, banquets and luncheons.
For those interested in diving further into the area’s rich history, Hadrian’s Wall is conveniently close. Just a short drive from the town’s centre, the Wall stretches 73 miles from coast to coast. It was originally built to serve as the north-western frontier of the Roman empire.
Construction of Hadrian’s Wall began in 122AD by order of emperor Hadrian and was defended by regiments of 500 to 1,000 infantry and cavalry men. Today, the Hadrian’s Wall Path allows travellers to follow directly in the footsteps of Roman soldiers.
There are plenty of trails for curious visitors to traverse given the Wall’s unique settlement across two of England’s most picturesque counties. Following the popular Birdoswald Roman trail will set visitors along a path set against the River Irthing and down the longest continuous stretch of the Wall.
Another moderate path is the Housesteads Roman trail, which covers some of the most peaceful parts of the Northumberland National Park. This specific trail provides access to Walltown Crags – the majestic countryside area – and the Dark Sky Discovery Site of Cawfields.
One final historic landmark that must be highlighted is the Hexham Old Gaol, which is England’s oldest purpose-built prison. Constructed in 1333, the medieval prison served as a detention site for nearly half a millennium, where inmates were required to fund their own sustenance and attire.
A Scheduled Ancient Monument, the Gaol is both a fun and educational destination. Visitors can uncover a bounty of music, poetry and books about the English-Scottish border in the interior Border Library Collection while more daring guests can try out the stocks.
The town is not just a hub for history, it also has many modern attractions to boast. For instance, the Hexham Racecourse is the only racecourse in Northumberland and considered one of the most scenic in the country. Another modern marvel is the Sill National Landscape Discovery Centre. The contemporary glass building is a community hub and learning centre, hosting an array of exhibits throughout the year. The centre also offers impressive views of the Northumberland National Park.
Finally, the Queen’s Hall Arts Centre – located opposite the Hexham Abbey – is a draw for the best international and national artists. The Victorian building boasts a 350-seat theatre to watch dancers, musicians and dramatic artists and is also home to two art galleries.
