Things To Do
in Hexham
Hexham is a charming market town located in Northumberland, England. It is known for its historic architecture, including the well-preserved Hexham Abbey. The town is surrounded by beautiful countryside, offering opportunities for outdoor activities such as hiking and exploring Hadrian's Wall.
Hexham also has a bustling town center with a variety of shops, restaurants, and cafes to explore.
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $70 - $150
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $15 - $30
- ☕ Coffee: $2 - $4
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $2 - $4
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $40 - $70
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $25 - $50
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to Hexham Abbey, where you can admire the stunning architecture and rich history. Don't forget to check out the beautiful gardens surrounding the abbey.
After lunch, stroll through the historic market town and explore local shops. You can also visit the Hexham Old Gaol, the oldest purpose-built prison in England.
For dinner, enjoy a meal at a traditional pub. Finish the evening with a leisurely walk along the River Tyne.
Take a morning hike in the stunning Northumberland National Park, just a short drive from Hexham. Enjoy the fresh air and breathtaking views of the countryside.
Pack a picnic to enjoy at one of the scenic spots within the park. Consider visiting the famous Hadrian's Wall for a bit of history.
Return to Hexham for a cozy dinner in town. You might find a local restaurant with regional cuisine to try.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Beautiful historic town with stunning architecture and heritage sites.
- Rich cultural scene with various events and festivals throughout the year.
- Surrounded by picturesque countryside, ideal for outdoor activities.
- Strong sense of community and welcoming atmosphere.
- Good local amenities including shops, restaurants, and schools.
- Limited job opportunities compared to larger cities.
- Public transport options may be less frequent or limited.
- Can be quieter and less vibrant, especially outside peak tourist seasons.
- Potential for higher living costs relative to local wages.
- Weather can be overcast and rainy, typical of the region.
Best Activities in Hexham
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Explore the iconic Hadrian's Wall, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, offering stunning views and a glimpse into Roman history. The walking trail stretches for 84 miles, with scenic sections near Hexham.
Visit the historic Hexham Abbey, where you can enjoy the beautiful grounds and gardens. The surrounding area is perfect for a quiet walk and appreciating the architectural beauty.
A lovely park located along the River Tyne, perfect for picnicking, walking, and cycling. The park features well-maintained paths, open spaces, and is great for families.
A bit further afield, Kielder Water and Forest Park offer numerous outdoor activities such as hiking, biking, fishing, and even water sports, combined with beautiful natural scenery.
Enjoy picturesque walks in the nearby Allendale area, where you can experience the rural charm of Northumberland with diverse landscapes, wildlife, and local culture.
Tours
Uncover the best of Hexham with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Hexham
Visit one of these nice places.
A beautiful historic site with stunning architecture and serene surroundings, perfect for capturing both interior and exterior shots.
A spacious public park offering picturesque views of the Tyne Valley, ideal for nature photography and scenic landscapes.
An iconic stone bridge that provides great views of the River Tyne, especially at sunset when the lighting creates a magical atmosphere.
An ancient fort with ruins and scenic river views, perfect for history buffs and beautiful landscape photography.
Just a short distance from Hexham, this site offers ruins and views of the surrounding countryside, making it a great spot for capturing history and nature.
A local favorite that offers panoramic views of the surrounding countryside, ideal for wide-angle photography.
The historic market town itself, featuring quaint shops and cobbled streets, providing great opportunities for street photography and local culture.
Food in Hexham
Hexham Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A savory sausage made from locally reared pork and blended with a unique blend of seasonings. It can be found at butchers such as Turnbull's of Hexham.
Must-Try!
A traditional North Eastern bread, often served as a sandwich bread, with local fillings such as pease pudding or ham. Available at bakeries like The Border Baker.
A classic Northumberland potato dish, made with layers of thinly sliced potatoes, onions, and cheese. Look for it at traditional pubs like The Dipton Mill Inn.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Hexham better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A vibrant market where local farmers and producers come together to offer fresh produce, artisanal cheese, baked goods, and other delights. Open every second and fourth Saturday of the month in the historic Hexham Market Place.
Held on certain weekends, this market showcases a diverse range of street food vendors offering global cuisines, from wood-fired pizzas to gourmet burgers and vegan delights.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Hexham, as in much of the UK, politeness is highly valued. It is common to greet people with a simple 'hello' or 'good morning,' and using 'please' and 'thank you' is considered essential in everyday interactions.
Queuing is an important cultural norm in Hexham, as in the rest of the UK. People are expected to wait their turn in lines, whether at shops, buses, or events. Cutting in line is generally viewed as rude.
In public spaces, people in Hexham tend to value personal space. It's customary to maintain an appropriate distance when conversing with someone, and avoiding overly loud conversations in public is appreciated.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Hexham with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Hexham
Ensure a smooth experience
In Hexham, as in many parts of the UK, tipping is generally appreciated but not mandatory. It is customary to leave a tip of around 10-15% in restaurants if service is not included in the bill. In pubs, it is common to round up the bill or leave small change. Tipping is less common in other settings like taxis, where rounding up to the nearest pound is typical.
Payment methods in Hexham include cash, debit and credit cards, and increasingly, mobile payments. Most establishments accept major credit cards, and contactless payments are widely used. ATMs are available for cash withdrawals. Many local shops and services also accept mobile payment options, making transactions convenient for both residents and visitors.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Hexham.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Spring (March to May) is a beautiful time to visit Hexham as the flowers begin to bloom and the countryside is lush and green. Temperatures are mild, ranging from 5°C to 15°C (41°F to 59°F). Visitors can enjoy outdoor activities like hiking in the nearby Northumberland National Park and the historic Hexham Abbey.
Summer (June to August) is ideal for enjoying warm, sunny days with average temperatures ranging from 12°C to 20°C (54°F to 68°F). This is the peak tourist season, with many festivals and events taking place, including the Hexham Summer Festival. It’s perfect for exploring local architecture, markets, and enjoying outdoor dining.
Autumn (September to November) brings a stunning display of fall foliage in and around Hexham, with temperatures cooling down to between 4°C and 14°C (39°F to 57°F). This season is perfect for hiking and enjoying the changing landscapes, as well as visiting historic sites without the summer crowds.
Winter (December to February) is cold, with temperatures averaging between 0°C and 6°C (32°F to 43°F). Snow can occasionally blanket the area, creating a picturesque setting. This is a great time for visiting cozy pubs, enjoying seasonal festivals, and exploring the region's history in a quieter atmosphere.
Hexham at Night
Hiking in Hexham
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A beautiful area with a mix of moorland and woodland offering various trails suitable for hiking, with stunning views of the surrounding countryside.
A UNESCO World Heritage Site that offers a breathtaking hiking route along the historic Hadrian's Wall, featuring numerous segments easily accessible from Hexham.
A vast area combining forests, hills, and water, providing extensive hiking trails that cater to all levels of hikers, along with exciting wildlife viewing opportunities.
Located to the southeast of Hexham, this area features rugged terrain and scenic vistas, ideal for hikers seeking a more challenging outdoor experience.
A stunning national park with diverse landscapes, offering numerous well-marked hiking trails ranging from easy walks to more strenuous climbs.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Hexham through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach Hexham by plane.
The closest major international airport located approximately 22 miles east of Hexham.
Located around 100 miles north of Hexham, it serves as a major international gateway to Scotland.
Situated about 85 miles south of Hexham, it serves the West Yorkshire region and beyond.
Approximately 140 miles south of Hexham, it is one of the busiest airports in the UK with international flights.
Located around 130 miles northwest of Hexham, it is a major international airport serving southwestern Scotland.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
This age group is often characterized by higher employment rates and is typically involved in family-raising activities.
An increasing demographic group in Hexham, reflecting national trends of an aging population.
This group includes university students and young professionals, contributing to the local economy.
Includes infants, toddlers, and school-aged children, often representing families in the area.
Comprises the majority of the workforce in Hexham, including various vocational and educational backgrounds.
The Soul of Hexham
Discover the essence of Hexham through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Football is a widely played sport in Hexham, with numerous local clubs and leagues accommodating various age groups.
Rugby is popular in Hexham, with several teams participating in local competitions and a strong community following.
Cricket has a long-standing tradition in Hexham, with local clubs providing opportunities for both juniors and adults to participate.
Athletics is an active sport in Hexham, featuring regular events and training sessions for individuals of all ages.
Swimming is a popular recreational activity in Hexham, supported by local facilities and clubs offering training and competitions.
Cycling is a favored sport in Hexham, with many scenic routes attracting both casual cyclists and competitive riders.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Hexham.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many eateries in Hexham cater to vegetarians and vegans, with diverse plant-based offerings from hearty mains to indulgent desserts. Options can be found at most restaurants and cafes, such as the vegan-friendly burgers at the Hexham Street Food Market.
Visitors with gluten intolerance can explore an array of gluten-free dishes, like the gluten-free stotty cakes at The Border Baker or the gluten-free galettes at Bouchon Bistrot. Most local establishments are accommodating and provide gluten-free alternatives.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Hexham with these cultural adventures.
