Happiness is Hexham as all Roman roads lead there by brilliant bus

Hexham is a charming market town tucked into the Tyne Valley and it’s a Great Scenic Journeys Northumberland epicentre with scenic routes aplenty, including the 680 from Bellingham, 685 between Newcastle and Carlisle (with direct, fast links across both sides of the UK by train, making it easy to get to from afar!), 688 to Allenheads and the famous, aptly named AD122 from Halthwhistle. These eclectic, atmospheric routes majestically wind their way through Northumberland’s scenic countryside, with views of rolling hills, villages, and serene farmland all before dropping you right into the centre of this most historic of towns. Whether you’re making a day of it or just popping by, the bus journey itself feels like a mini escape, making Hexham an ideal choice for a stress-free and beautiful day out without needing to drive and the perfect base for a Great Scenic Journeys staycation!

Once you arrive, you’ll quickly notice that Hexham certainly wears its history well. Dominating the centre is Hexham Abbey, a beautiful and remarkably well-preserved church that dates back to the 7th century. It’s free to enter, and inside you’ll find peaceful cloisters, medieval stonework, and the atmospheric crypt that has survived since Saxon times. Even if churches aren’t your usual thing, this one is worth a look, it feels like walking through living history. To say it is ‘incredible’ would be an under-statement!

Be sure to check out the Abbey Grounds and in particular, Hexham Bandstand, which is a charming Victorian-style structure surrounded by beautifully landscaped gardens. Often used for summer concerts and community events, it provides a scenic spot for visitors to relax and enjoy live music. With its ornate ironwork and central location near the town centre and Hexham Abbey, the bandstand is both a cultural and architectural highlight, offering a nostalgic glimpse into the town’s rich heritage and vibrant community life. Just look at that snap below which shows it in all its elegance under the lights on a balmy, fun-packed summer night.

Right next door is Hexham’s Market Place, which holds regular farmers’ markets and pop-up stalls. Local produce, crafts, and baked goods are always on offer, often with live music or small community events adding a nice atmosphere and that unmistakable sense of a town that’s proud of what it has to offer.

If you’re into history, you can’t miss Hexham Old Gaol, which claims to be the oldest purpose-built prison in England, dating back to 1330. It’s a small museum, but it’s interactive and surprisingly engaging especially if you’re travelling with kids or just like a good story about Border Reivers and medieval justice. It’s got just the right amount of eerie atmosphere to make it memorable without being too grim.

From the town centre, it’s easy to branch out into nature. Tyne Green Country Park is a ten-minute stroll from the abbey and runs alongside the River Tyne. It’s a peaceful spot for walking, picnicking, or just sitting by the river watching the world go by. The park’s wide open spaces and riverside paths are popular with locals for cycling and dog-walking, and it’s also where you’ll find a small café kiosk handy for a cup of tea or ice cream in good weather.

Hexham is also well-placed for exploring further afield. It’s one of the best jumping-off points for Hadrian’s Wall, with buses and walking routes leading to nearby highlights like Chesters Roman Fort and Housesteads. If you’ve got time, it’s definitely worth venturing a little further out to see some of these world-famous ruins.

For food and drink, there are plenty of good options. The Beaumont is a modern British restaurant set right on the park, with good views and a solid menu featuring local ingredients. For something quicker, If it’s just a drink you’re after, Hexham has no shortage of pubs, with The Heart of Northumberland often mentioned as a standout thanks to its mix of real ales.

If you’re into shopping, Hexham won’t disappoint. The town centre is full of small businesses: bookshops, antique stores, gift boutiques, and a few quirky places selling everything from handmade soaps to vinyl records. It’s not the kind of place for big high-street chains and that’s exactly what gives it its charm.

Hexham has connections to several notable individuals across history and culture. One of its most famous sons is Thomas Bewick, an 18th-century wood engraver and naturalist whose illustrations revolutionised printing. Robson Green, a well-known actor and television presenter, was born nearby and has strong ties to the area. The town also has ecclesiastical significance, with figures like Wilfrid, the Anglo-Saxon bishop who founded Hexham Abbey. More recently, Olympic rower Matt Wells, born in Hexham, has represented Great Britain internationally, adding to the town’s diverse legacy of talent in arts, sport, and religion.

As far as small towns go, Hexham offers a great mix of history, scenery, and local character, set against a backdrop of the iconic, world-famous Hadrian’s Wall landscape. You can spend a few relaxed hours or a full day here without ever feeling rushed or overwhelmed. It’s compact, friendly, and full of little discoveries, whether that’s a tucked-away tea room or a scenic bench by the river.

So, if you’re looking for a refreshing and easy escape from Newcastle or surrounding areas, hop on the fab scenic bus trips and let the driver take the strain. It’s an effortless way to see some of Northumberland’s best bits, with Hexham sitting proudly at the heart of it all – a town where history, community and landscape all come together naturally. It’s a place where the sunsets with paradisical beauty then rises the next morning with equal ambient brilliance – just like its fab scenic bus routes!

To plan your scenic sojourn, check out these links below…

AD122 Hadrian’s Wall Bus

685 Newcastle to Hexham and Carlisle

680, Bellingham to Hexham

688, Hexham to Allenheads