Historic Market Place of Hexham

Ancient Roots and Architectural Heritage

Hexham Market Place sits at the core of a town whose recorded history begins in AD 674 with the founding of Hexham Abbey by St Wilfrid. Though the town may have Roman-era origins, its documented legacy is deeply Anglo-Saxon and medieval. The Market Place is framed by remarkable historic buildings, including the Moot Hall, a medieval courthouse dating from the 14th or early 15th century, notable for its twin towers and passageway leading to Hallgate. Nearby stands the Shambles, a covered market built in 1766 to house market traders, reflecting Hexham’s enduring role as a commercial hub.

Medieval and Georgian Influences

Surrounding the Market Place are Georgian townhouses alongside medieval stone structures, such as the Hexham Old Gaol from the 1330s and remnants of a 13th-century church dedicated to St Mary. These layers of architecture illustrate the town’s evolution through centuries of prosperity and conflict. The Moot Hall once served as the court for the Archbishops of York, who held lordship over Hexhamshire, underscoring the Market Place’s historical importance as a center of governance and justice.

Historic Events and Local Legends

The Market Place witnessed significant historical events, including the 1761 Hexham Riot, a violent protest against militia conscription reforms that resulted in the deaths of around 45 protesters. This tragic episode, known as the Hexham Butchers incident, marked a turbulent chapter in the town’s history. The Market Place also recalls the Wars of the Roses and border conflicts, with ties to figures such as Henry Beaufort, the Duke of Somerset, who was executed there in 1464.

Community and Commerce Today

Today, Hexham Market Place remains a bustling focal point for local life, hosting markets that continue the town’s centuries-old tradition of trade in livestock, produce, and crafts. The Temperley Fountain, erected in 1901, commemorates a notable local merchant and adds to the square’s charm. The Market Place’s blend of historic ambiance and active commerce offers visitors a vivid sense of Hexham’s enduring community spirit.

Surrounding Attractions and Cultural Significance

Adjacent to the Market Place stands Hexham Abbey, a landmark of religious and architectural significance, with origins tracing back to the 7th century. The abbey’s crypt contains stones from Roman ruins, linking the town to the broader history of Roman Britain. The Market Place serves as a gateway to exploring Hexham’s rich heritage, from its medieval past to its role in regional border history.

Atmosphere and Visitor Experience

The Market Place combines historic gravitas with a lively atmosphere, where the echoes of past events mingle with the sounds of daily market trade. Its open layout, historic buildings, and commemorative monuments create a unique setting for cultural exploration, photography, and leisurely strolls. Visitors can appreciate the layers of history embedded in the stonework and the vibrant community life that continues to define Hexham’s Market Place.