Hexham Market Place: Heart of a Historic Northumbrian Town

Discover Hexham Market Place, where centuries of history blend with vibrant market life in the heart of Northumberland’s charming town.

Hexham Market Place is the vibrant historic center of Hexham, a market town in Northumberland, England. Surrounded by medieval, Georgian, and Victorian architecture, it features landmarks like the Moot Hall, the Shambles market shelter, and the site of the 1761 Hexham Riot. The market place pulses with community life, hosting farmers’ markets and offering a glimpse into centuries of local history and culture.

A brief summary to Market Pl

Hexham, GB
Duration: 1 to 3 hours
Free
Outdoor
Mobile reception: 4 out of 5

From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Market Pl.

Visit on the second or fourth Saturday of the month to experience the lively farmers’ market in the Shambles.
Explore the Moot Hall and Old Gaol to delve into Hexham’s medieval judicial and penal history.
Look for the Temperley Fountain in the Market Place, commemorating a notable local figure from the 19th century.
Take time to appreciate the mix of architectural styles, from medieval stonework to Georgian townhouses.

Do you manage this location?

Take control to get all the benefits, like improved information, better appearance, and stronger visibility across AI-powered discovery. Learn more

Activate your presence

Other nearby places you may find interesting

Market Pl

Hexham Market Place

Market St

Historic Market Town of Hexham in Northumberland

Hexham Old Gaol

Hexham Old Gaol: England’s Earliest Purpose-Built Prison

Getting There

Train and Bus

From Newcastle upon Tyne, take a direct train to Hexham station, approximately 30–40 minutes. From the station, a 15-minute walk leads to the Market Place. Local buses also connect Hexham with nearby towns, with services running hourly. Train fares range from £8 to £15 one-way.
Car

Driving from Newcastle, the journey to Hexham Market Place takes about 40–50 minutes via the A69. Limited parking is available near the town center, with some paid car parks within a 10-minute walk. Parking fees typically range from £2 to £5 for a few hours.
Long-Distance Coach

National Express coaches run from major UK cities to Hexham bus station, about a 10-minute walk from the Market Place. Travel times vary widely depending on origin, with fares generally between £10 and £30.

For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you

Restrooms
Drink Options
Food Options
Seating Areas
Trash Bins
Information Boards

Discover more about Market Pl

A Historic Hub of Northumberland

Hexham Market Place sits at the core of Hexham, a town with roots stretching back to the Anglo-Saxon era when St Wilfrid founded an abbey here in 674 AD. Though the town lacks confirmed Roman origins, it grew as a significant market and administrative center. The Market Place has long been the social and commercial heart, framed by a mix of medieval, Georgian, and Victorian buildings that tell stories of the town’s evolving past.

Architectural and Cultural Landmarks

Dominating the Market Place is the Moot Hall, a striking medieval courthouse dating from the 14th or early 15th century. Its twin towers and passageway connect to Hallgate, leading visitors to the Hexham Old Gaol, a 14th-century prison with thick stone walls and exhibition rooms recounting local history. Nearby, the Shambles—a stone-pillared market shelter built in 1766—once housed meat traders but now hosts a variety of stalls including plants and clothing, continuing the market tradition.

Echoes of Conflict and Community

The Market Place witnessed the tragic Hexham Riot of 1761, when troops fired on protesters opposing militia conscription reforms, resulting in dozens of deaths. This event marked a violent chapter in the town’s history, reflecting wider tensions in 18th-century England. Despite such episodes, the Market Place remains a symbol of community resilience, regularly hosting farmers’ markets and local events that celebrate Hexham’s rich heritage.

Atmosphere and Visitor Experience

Visitors to Hexham Market Place can soak up a lively yet historic atmosphere, with the blend of architectural styles providing a picturesque backdrop. The area’s cobbled streets and open-air market stalls invite leisurely exploration. The Market Place also serves as a gateway to other historic sites in Hexham, including the abbey, medieval churches, and museums, making it a central point for cultural discovery.

Preservation and Modern Life

Today, the Market Place balances preservation with everyday use, maintaining its role as a bustling commercial and social space. Efforts to protect its historic buildings ensure that Hexham’s story remains visible, while local businesses and markets keep the area vibrant and relevant. The Market Place exemplifies how heritage and contemporary life coexist in this Northumbrian town.

Significance in Regional Identity

As the largest town in Tynedale and a key stop for visitors touring Hadrian’s Wall, Hexham Market Place is integral to the region’s identity. It reflects centuries of history, from medieval governance to industrial-era commerce, while continuing to serve as a focal point for community and tourism in Northumberland.