Background

Hexham Abbey: A Living Legacy of Faith and History in Northumberland

Explore over 1,350 years of history and spirituality at Hexham Abbey, Northumberland’s iconic medieval church and community hub.

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Hexham Abbey, located on Beaumont Street in Hexham, Northumberland, is a remarkable historic church with origins dating back to the 7th century. This active Anglican abbey combines Anglo-Saxon, Norman, and Gothic architectural elements and houses unique treasures including a Saxon crypt, ancient bishop’s throne, and medieval wood carvings. Free to visit, it offers a rich cultural and spiritual experience enhanced by a visitor centre, café, and regular community events.

A brief summary to Hexham Abbey

  • Monday 10 am-4 pm
  • Tuesday 10 am-4 pm
  • Wednesday 10 am-4 pm
  • Thursday 10 am-4 pm
  • Friday 10 am-4 pm
  • Saturday 10 am-4 pm
  • Sunday 10 am-4 pm

Local tips

  • Entry to Hexham Abbey is free, but consider donating to help maintain this historic site.
  • Visit the Saxon crypt for a small fee (£3.50), guided by knowledgeable volunteers.
  • Check the abbey’s schedule for special events and art installations that enrich the visitor experience.
  • The abbey is fully accessible except for the crypt, which has steep steps.
  • Take time to explore the surrounding market town of Hexham, including galleries and parks.
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Getting There

  • Train

    Hexham is served by regular trains from Newcastle and Carlisle, with a journey time of approximately 30-50 minutes. The abbey is a 15-minute walk from Hexham train station. Train tickets typically cost between £10-£20 return.

  • Bus

    Local bus services connect Hexham with surrounding towns and villages. Bus stops are located near the abbey, with travel times varying from 20 to 60 minutes depending on origin. Single fares generally range from £2 to £6.

  • Car

    Driving to Hexham Abbey is straightforward via the A69 or A69M roads. Public parking is available in town car parks, typically charging around £1-£3 per hour. Note that parking can be limited during market days and weekends.

  • Walking

    If staying in Hexham town centre, the abbey is easily accessible on foot via flat, paved streets. Walking from the town centre takes about 5-10 minutes on accessible terrain.

Hexham Abbey location weather suitability

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Discover more about Hexham Abbey

Foundations of Faith and History

Hexham Abbey stands on a site of Christian worship established around AD 674, when Queen Etheldreda granted lands to Bishop Wilfrid of York. The abbey’s Saxon crypt, accessible via a steep stone stair, is one of the oldest surviving parts of the building, preserving rooms and passageways from the original church. Over the centuries, the abbey has evolved architecturally, blending early Anglo-Saxon foundations with Norman and Gothic styles, reflecting its resilience and continuous religious significance.

Architectural and Artistic Treasures

Inside, visitors encounter the 7th-century bishop’s throne adorned with the triquetra symbol, the ancient Frith stool symbolizing sanctuary, and the famous 15th-century Danse Macabre wood panel paintings. The abbey also features intricately carved misericords, Victorian stained glass windows, and the unique Medieval Night Stair still in use today. These elements weave a rich tapestry of art and history that spans more than a millennium.

The Saxon Crypt Experience

The crypt offers a rare glimpse into early medieval ecclesiastical life, with Latin inscriptions on the ceiling and a Roman tombstone incorporated into the structure. Access to the crypt requires a small fee and is guided by knowledgeable volunteers who illuminate its historical context, making it a highlight for visitors interested in early Christian heritage.

Community and Cultural Engagement

Hexham Abbey remains a vibrant spiritual centre with regular worship services, choirs, and parish groups. It also hosts cultural events, exhibitions, and concerts, including seasonal highlights such as Christmas carol services and art installations like Luke Jerram’s 'Museum of the Moon.' The abbey’s visitor centre, café, and gift shop provide welcoming spaces to relax and reflect after exploring.

Setting in the Market Town of Hexham

Situated in the heart of Hexham, the abbey is surrounded by charming cobbled streets, galleries, and the bustling market square. Nearby attractions include Hexham Park and the Queen’s Hall Arts Centre, enhancing the visitor experience with opportunities for leisurely walks, shopping, and cultural exploration.

Visiting Practicalities and Accessibility

The abbey is open daily from 10am to 5pm with free entry, though donations are encouraged to support its upkeep. It is fully accessible except for the crypt, which involves steep steps. Public transport links and parking are available in Hexham, making it easy to include the abbey in a day trip or weekend getaway.

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