- Hexham was designated the 'Happiest Place to Live' in the UK by a national property report in 2019.
- The town sits on the site of a 7th-century monastery founded by Saint Wilfrid, which was largely destroyed by Danish raiders.
- Hexham’s Old Gaol, built in 1332, is one of the earliest examples of a purpose-built prison structure in England.
- The town’s famous 'Hexham Races' take place at a course that has been described as one of the most picturesque in the country, located on the Yarridge Heights.
- The town historically served as a significant centre for the wool trade, which brought substantial prosperity during the medieval period.
About Hexham
Hexham is a historic market town in Northumberland, positioned just south of the World Heritage site of Hadrian’s Wall. The town is dominated by the medieval architecture of Hexham Abbey, which serves as a spiritual anchor, and the Hexham Old Gaol, one of the oldest purpose-built prisons in England. Visitors can explore local history at the nearby Corbridge Roman Town or find tranquility in the verdant spaces of The Sele. It remains a key gateway for archaeological exploration, bridging the gap between medieval ecclesiastical history and the region's Roman frontier legacy.
Highlights of Hexham
The places our editors single out — and why they're worth your time.
Historical places
Explore the medieval crypt and the ancient Frith Stool housed within this historic abbey.
Museums
Walk through one of the best-preserved cavalry forts along the entire length of Hadrian's Wall.
Historical places
Discover the foundations of a thriving Roman town and visit the on-site museum containing excavated artifacts.
Museums
Tour one of England's earliest purpose-built prisons to learn about the harsh realities of medieval justice.
Historical places
Visit this fortified 14th-century manor house to experience defensive architecture from the border reiver era.
Parks
Stroll through this former medieval grazing ground that now serves as the primary public park for the town.
Parks
Explore historical botanical practices in this garden focused on plants once used for medicinal remedies.
Places of interest
View this historic 17th-century bridge that survived the great flood of 1771.
Top things to do in Hexham
The 49 highest-rated places in Hexham, ranked by travellers.
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Vindolanda is a world-renowned Roman auxiliary fort located just south of Hadrian's Wall, famous for its ongoing archaeo...
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Hexham on the map
Top attractions plotted across the city.
Plan your visit to Hexham
Late spring to early autumn (May to September) offers the most favorable weather for exploring the expansive Hadrian's Wall sites and outdoor gardens.
2-3 days, providing sufficient time to explore the historic town center and devote full days to the surrounding Roman archaeological sites.
The town centre is highly walkable, though regional bus services and cars are necessary for reaching nearby Roman forts and rural sites.
Stay in the town centre to be within walking distance of the Abbey and local transit links, or choose a countryside inn on the outskirts for a quieter experience.
Mid-range; while accommodation and dining prices are moderate, travel to scattered historical sites can add to the total cost.
Frequently asked
Aventuro lists 49 curated attractions in and around Hexham, ranked by traveller ratings.
Vindolanda is the highest-rated place to visit in Hexham right now.
The largest category is museums, with 15 places to explore.
Travellers also explore London, North Kensington, Manchester.
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