Hexham Abbey
Medieval sanctuary where 1,350 years of faith, art, and history converge in Northumberland's most treasured abbey.
Hexham Abbey stands as one of Northumberland's most significant historical landmarks, welcoming over 120,000 visitors annually to its sacred grounds. Founded in 674 AD by Saint Wilfrid, this working church seamlessly blends Anglo-Saxon, Norman, and Gothic architecture across thirteen centuries of continuous worship. The free admission, combined with exceptional features like the 7th-century crypt, Roman stonework, and medieval treasures, makes it an unmissable destination for history enthusiasts and spiritual seekers alike.
A brief summary to Hexham Abbey
- Beaumont St, Hexham, NE46 3NB, GB
- +441434602031
- Visit website
- Duration: 1.5 to 3 hours
- Free
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Indoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
Local tips
- Descend into the Anglo-Saxon crypt for an unforgettable journey back 1,300 years; volunteer stewards provide detailed historical context and point out crucial details that enhance understanding.
- Visit on weekday mornings for a peaceful, contemplative experience with minimal crowds; the Abbey's spiritual atmosphere is most palpable during quiet hours.
- Check the events calendar before your visit to discover music concerts, art installations, or theatrical performances that may coincide with your trip.
- Layer your clothing; the stone interior maintains cool temperatures year-round, particularly in the crypt and during winter months.
- Allow time to explore the Big Story visitor center exhibition and browse the gift shop; both provide valuable context and thoughtfully curated souvenirs.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Drinking Water
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Sheltered Areas
- Trash Bins
- Information Boards
- Visitor Center
Getting There
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Train
Hexham railway station is a 5-10 minute walk from the Abbey. Direct trains serve the station from Newcastle Central (approximately 45 minutes), with regular services throughout the day. The Abbey is clearly signposted from the station; follow Beaumont Street toward the town center. No parking concerns with this option.
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Bus
Hexham bus station is adjacent to the railway station, approximately 5-10 minutes' walk from the Abbey. Multiple regional bus services connect Hexham to surrounding towns and Newcastle. Journey times vary by origin; local services within Hexham are frequent and affordable. Follow town center signage to reach Beaumont Street.
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Car
Public car parking is available throughout Hexham town center, with several car parks within 2-3 minutes' walk of the Abbey on Beaumont Street. Parking charges apply; short-stay parking discs are available from the Tourist Information Centre. The Abbey's coach drop-off point is directly at the front entrance near the gift shop, ideal for group arrivals.
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Walking
If staying in central Hexham, the Abbey is easily accessible on foot via the town's pedestrian-friendly streets. The market square and surrounding areas are compact and walkable. From the train or bus stations, follow Beaumont Street downhill toward the town center; the Abbey's distinctive architecture becomes visible as you approach.
Hexham Abbey location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Cold Weather
Discover more about Hexham Abbey
Thirteen Centuries of Sacred Heritage
Hexham Abbey's story begins in 674 AD when Saint Wilfrid, Bishop of York, established a monastery on this site following a grant of lands from Queen Etheldreda. What makes this location extraordinary is not merely its age, but the unbroken thread of Christian worship that has persisted for over 1,350 years. The Abbey has witnessed the rise and fall of kingdoms, survived the Dissolution of the Monasteries under Henry VIII in 1537, and emerged as a beacon of faith and culture in the heart of Northumberland. Today, it remains a fully functioning parish church while simultaneously serving as one of the region's premier heritage attractions, drawing pilgrims, historians, and curious travelers from across the globe.Architectural Layers and Hidden Treasures
The building itself is a palimpsest of architectural styles, each layer telling a distinct chapter of history. The most remarkable feature is the Anglo-Saxon crypt, accessible via a steep stone staircase descending from the nave. This subterranean chamber, constructed entirely from Roman stone salvaged from nearby Corbridge, transports visitors back 1,300 years into the original church built by Saint Wilfrid. The crypt's Latin inscriptions on the ceiling and its intimate scale create an almost meditative atmosphere. Above ground, the Abbey showcases a 7th-century bishop's throne featuring the triquetra design, the Frith stool—a sanctuary stone from the same era—and the remarkable 2,000-year-old Roman tombstone of a standard bearer. The medieval Dance of Death panel paintings, rendered in extraordinary detail, depict mortality's inevitability with haunting artistry. Victorian stained glass windows flood the interior with colored light, while the medieval Night Stair, still in daily use, remains the only functioning example of its kind in England.A Living Community of Worship and Culture
Unlike many heritage sites that function primarily as museums, Hexham Abbey pulses with active religious life. Daily services—from morning prayer to evensong—continue the monastic traditions established over a millennium ago. The Abbey also hosts an impressive cultural calendar, featuring classical music concerts, theatrical performances, and contemporary art installations. Recent exhibitions have included Luke Jerram's Museum of the Moon and Gaia, transforming the sacred space into an immersive gallery where ancient stone walls frame awe-inspiring representations of our planet and cosmos. This juxtaposition of the timeless and the contemporary creates a uniquely dynamic visitor experience.Accessibility and Visitor Experience
The Abbey welcomes all visitors with genuine warmth and comprehensive facilities. Entry is completely free, though donations support the ongoing preservation of this irreplaceable structure. The site features step-free access throughout the main building, with the exception of the crypt's steep descent. A dedicated visitor center called The Big Story provides interactive exhibitions and houses the Hexham Chalice, a tiny copper and gold-gilt goblet used by Anglo-Saxon missionaries for Holy Communion. The Refectory Café offers homemade refreshments in a tranquil setting, while the gift shop provides thoughtfully curated souvenirs. Volunteer stewards, passionate about the Abbey's history, are stationed throughout to answer questions and enhance the visitor experience with their deep knowledge and genuine enthusiasm.Setting Within Historic Hexham
The Abbey occupies a central position in Hexham's charming market town, surrounded by cobbled streets, independent galleries, and local shops. The town itself, situated just miles from Hadrian's Wall, offers a rich tapestry of historical and cultural attractions. The Queen's Hall Arts Centre, a magnificent Victorian building opposite the Abbey, hosts international performances and exhibitions. Hexham Park provides peaceful green space for contemplation, while the riverside walks offer scenic respite. This integration into the living fabric of the town means visitors can easily combine their Abbey visit with exploration of Hexham's broader heritage and contemporary cultural offerings.Practical Considerations for Your Visit
While the Abbey is open daily, hours may vary due to services and special events, typically operating from 10 AM to 4 or 5 PM depending on the day. The crypt requires a small additional fee of £3.50 per person, though this is waived for those on organized guided tours. Guided tours, available for groups, last approximately one hour and provide expert interpretation of the Abbey's most significant features. Mobile phone audio guides are also available for independent visitors. The building can be cool, particularly in winter months, so layering is advisable. Photography is permitted throughout, making the Abbey exceptionally photogenic both for casual snapshots and serious photography enthusiasts.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
The Tower Cafe Ltd
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11 Waterloo St
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New Bridge Street, Newcastle-upon-Tyne
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Richard Grainger Memorial Fountain
30.7 km
Historic granite fountain honoring Richard Grainger’s transformative 19th-century urban vision in Newcastle’s iconic Grainger Town.
Herber Tower
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A well-preserved 13th-century drum tower from Newcastle’s medieval town walls, once a guild meeting place and now a quiet monument in the city centre.
Oriental Garden
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Durham Tower
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Morden Tower
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Blackfriars Medieval Friary
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St John the Baptist Church
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Old Library Building
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Newcastle and District War Memorial
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Grainger Market
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Hatton Gallery
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Grainger St
31.1 km
Historic marketplace and neo-classical street at the heart of Newcastle's Georgian heritage district.
Unmissable attractions to see
Market Pl
0.1 km
Hexham Market Place: A historic hub blending medieval charm, Georgian elegance, and vibrant market traditions in Northumberland.
Market St
0.1 km
A historic Northumberland market town on the River Tyne, perfect for exploring Hadrian’s Wall and the wild beauty of Northumberland National Park.
Hexham Old Gaol
0.2 km
Explore England’s oldest purpose-built prison, a medieval marvel nestled in Hexham’s historic Tyne Valley.
The Rat Inn
2.3 km
Rustic gastropub in Anick offering locally sourced dishes, a cozy beamed bar, and a tranquil beer garden with stunning Northumberland views.
Dipton Mill Inn
3.2 km
A cozy countryside pub near Hexham offering local brews, hearty food, and a warm, traditional English atmosphere.
Brunton Turret - Hadrian's Wall
5.9 km
Explore Brunton Turret, a well-preserved Roman watchtower on Hadrian's Wall, showcasing ancient military architecture and frontier life.
Chesters Roman Fort and Museum - Hadrian's Wall
6.6 km
Explore Britain’s best-preserved Roman cavalry fort with its rich history, stunning ruins, and fascinating museum on Hadrian’s Wall.
Aydon Castle
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Explore one of England’s most intact 13th-century fortified manor houses set in tranquil Northumberland woodland.
Temple of Mithras, Carrawburgh - Hadrian's Wall
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Pine
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National Trust - Allen Banks and Staward Gorge
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National Trust - Cherryburn
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Housesteads Roman Fort - Vercovicium - English Heritage Site
15.3 km
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Prudhoe Castle
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Explore Prudhoe Castle, Northumberland’s enduring medieval fortress with stunning river views and a Georgian mansion nestled within ancient walls.
Vindolanda
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Explore Vindolanda, a captivating Roman fort and museum with live excavations, ancient writing tablets, and rich artefacts near Hadrian's Wall.
Essential places to dine
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Restaurant Hjem
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Battlesteads Hotel & Restaurant
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Blenkinsopp Castle Inn - Bistro, Bar, Bed & Breakfast, Gardens
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Earl of Pitt Street
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Rumba Restaurant
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Experience authentic Peruvian cuisine and vibrant Latin nightlife in the heart of Newcastle at Rumba Casa Latina.
The Coach House
30.7 km
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Fujiyama Teppanyaki Japanese Restaurant
30.7 km
Experience fresh Japanese teppanyaki cooked live with flair and flavor in the heart of Newcastle upon Tyne.
Blackfriars Restaurant
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Red Mezze
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El Coto
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Zaap Thai Street Food Newcastle
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Turtle Bay Newcastle
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Pinocchio Ristorante
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Super Natural Newcastle
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Discover vibrant vegan dining and creative cocktails in the heart of Newcastle’s historic Grainger Street at Super Natural Newcastle.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Tesco Extra
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A versatile and convenient supermarket hub in Hexham’s Tynedale Retail Park, offering extended hours, fresh produce, clothing, and modern shopping services.
Graham Smith Antiques
15.8 km
Discover exquisite 18th to early 20th-century antiques in the tranquil village setting of Horsley at Graham Smith Antiques.
The Original Factory Shop (Co-op Prudhoe)
16.1 km
Discover unbeatable bargains on clothing, homewares, and more at The Original Factory Shop in Prudhoe, your go-to discount shopping destination.
North East Gifts
16.7 km
Discover authentic North East England gifts, local art, and unique memorabilia in a welcoming Prudhoe shop celebrating regional heritage.
Natural Northumberland
21.5 km
Discover unique local crafts and heartfelt gifts reflecting Northumberland’s rich heritage at this charming Bellingham boutique.
You & Yours Gift Shop
22.8 km
Explore unique gifts and local crafts at You & Yours Gift Shop in Newburn, a perfect destination for heartfelt souvenirs and artisan treasures.
Just Because Gifts UK
26.8 km
Discover unique, locally crafted gifts and thoughtful treasures at Just Because Gifts UK in Newcastle upon Tyne.
Be Thou a Witch, Gift Shop
27.4 km
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Mellow Yellow
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Otterburn Mill Shop and Café, Otterburn
29.1 km
Historic mill shop and cozy café nestled in Northumberland’s scenic Otterburn, blending outdoor gear, homemade food, and tranquil picnic grounds.
House of Kiki Boutique Gosforth
30.0 km
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KEYring
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Flip Vintage American Clothing
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Eldon Garden Shopping Centre.
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Newcastle Gifts
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
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Mr Ant's
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The Blue Bell
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The Red Lion
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The Twice Brewed Inn
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The Beresford Arms
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The Dog & Parrot
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The Mad House
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Bealim House
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Bar Loco
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The WonderBar
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For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Romantic
- Tranquil
- Zen
- Scenic
- Unique
- Spiritual / Energy Spot
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Historic
- Vintage Styles
- Art Deco Styles
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- Art & Design
- Sacred Sites
- Heritage Neighborhoods
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Panoramas
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Architectural Shots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Protected Area
- Locally Managed
- Leave-No-Trace Critical
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Mindfulness
- Meditation Spot
- Spiritual / Energy Spot
- Myth & Legends
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Nature Escape
- Day Trip
- Weekend Getaway
- Festival / Event Nearby
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- LGBT Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Pet Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Female Friendly
