Charming UK market town not yet mobbed by tourists with pretty countryside
Many think it is the perfect place for a UK staycation. It has a rich history and beautiful countryside
If you're in the process of planning your holidays and fancy a change from costly overseas travel, why not consider a staycation in a quaint locale closer to home? Hexham, a charming market town nestled in Northumberland with a population of just 13,000, could be the ideal spot for a delightful domestic getaway.
Join the modest crowd of approximately 120,000 visitors who flock to this tranquil town annually. A must-see attraction is Hexham Abbey, an architectural marvel first erected in 674AD using materials salvaged from Roman ruins, before undergoing a significant rebuild in the 13th century. Today, Hexham Abbey stands largely as it did eight centuries ago, offering a fascinating glimpse into history.
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The town also boasts a beautiful park, perfect for leisurely strolls during the spring season.
The Abbey Gardens and neighbouring Sele park offer a variety of landscapes, from formal gardens adorned with a traditional bandstand, to woodland walks and the open grassy expanses of the Sele - a delight for both young and old.
For those yearning for more outdoor exploration, the nearby Hadrian's Wall awaits discovery.
This remarkable structure, whose construction commenced in 122AD, served as a boundary between Roman-occupied England and Caledonia, extending to the region of Scotland beyond the River Forth.
Spanning roughly 73 miles, the wall features forts at regular intervals, testament to its historical significance.
For those with a taste for adventure, a trek across the entire length of the wall is an option.
However, Walltown Crags, a brief drive from Hexham, comes highly recommended by travel blog The Crazy Tourist as one of the most spectacular sections, offering stunning views courtesy of its undulating landscape.
The blog also suggests a visit to the Old Gaol for those intrigued by the more eerie aspects of history.
Constructed in 1333, Hexham Old Gaol served as a prison for nearly half a millennium, with inmates required to fund their own sustenance and attire.
Nowadays, visitors can gain insight into the harsh realities of life within a Medieval jail, while also exploring the Border Library Collection housed within the same building, which offers a glimpse into the cultural influences that permeated England via the town.
