Name: Hexham Abbey
Rating: 5.0

Hexham Abbey

Hexham Abbey, Beaumont Street, Hexham, UK

1-99 Years

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Description

Hexham Abbey is a stunning historic landmark that has stood at the heart of the community for over 1,300 years. It is one of the best things to do with kids in Hexham because it is a museum category attraction and place of worship that offers a deep dive into Anglo-Saxon and medieval history. From exploring a real 7th-century crypt to seeing ancient stone carvings, the Abbey provides a calm but intriguing atmosphere for families.

Visiting the Abbey is excellent for the family budget as general admission is free for all visitors. While there is no entry fee to explore the main church and the "Big Story" exhibition, certain special events or guided tours may have a small associated cost. Donations are welcomed at the entrance to help maintain the fabric of this ancient building for future generations.

If you are looking for the best place for a day out with family and kids that combines architectural beauty with a genuine sense of adventure, the Abbey is a must-visit. It offers a high-quality educational day out, allowing children to walk through history in a tangible way. It is a peaceful spot that manages to capture the imagination of both adults and younger explorers alike.

Features

Free
Host birthday parties: Yes

Features

Key Features

Interactive Exhibits: The "Big Story" exhibition includes interactive exhibits and hands-on displays that explain the Abbey's long history from the Saxons to the present day.
The Saxon Crypt: A genuine 7th-century underground chamber that offers a sensory play experience with its cool stone walls and dark, atmospheric corners.
Educational Day Out: Children can learn about St Wilfrid and the construction of the Abbey using reclaimed Roman stones from nearby sites.
Art and Craft: The Abbey frequently hosts family craft sessions during school holidays, focusing on medieval techniques and religious art.

Top 5 Highlights

The Saxon Crypt: This is the only part of the original 7th-century church still standing. Descending into this underground space is like entering a time capsule; kids love searching for the recycled Roman carvings hidden in the walls.
The Night Stair: A rare surviving set of medieval stone stairs once used by monks to reach the church for night services. It is a fantastic spot for children to imagine the daily lives of people hundreds of years ago.
Flavinus Tombstone: A massive Roman monument dedicated to a standard-bearer. It’s an impressive sight that helps bridge the gap between Roman Northumberland and the Saxon era.
The Dance of Death: A series of 15th-century paintings on the choir screen. While it sounds a bit spooky, children are often fascinated by the colourful figures representing people from all walks of life.
The Frith Stool: This ancient stone seat is over 1,300 years old and was once a place of sanctuary. Sitting in the presence of such an old object helps kids grasp the sheer scale of history at the Abbey.

Facilities

Toilets: Modern accessible toilets and baby changing facilities are available in the Cloister area.
Buggy Parking: There is space for prams in the welcome area, though the Crypt and certain stairs are not accessible for buggies.
Food & Drink: The Abbey Refectory café serves home-cooked meals, cakes, and a dedicated kids' menu.

Pro-Tips for Parents

Visit the Crypt First: Access to the Crypt is via a narrow staircase and can sometimes be restricted during services, so check with the welcome desk as soon as you arrive.
Check the Service Times: The Abbey is a working church. If you want to explore the whole building, avoid visiting during Sunday morning services or weddings.
Grab a Trail: Ask at the welcome desk for a children’s activity trail to keep them engaged as you walk around.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is it worth it for toddlers? While the deep history might be lost on them, toddlers enjoy the open spaces and the "Big Story" museum, which has tactile elements. The café is also very toddler-friendly with highchairs available.
How long does a visit take? A typical visit lasts between 1 and 2 hours, which allows time to see the main church, the Crypt, and the museum exhibition.
Where is the best place to park? The Wentworth Car Park is the best option. It is free for 4 hours (with a blue disc), provides plenty of spaces, and is only a short walk from the Abbey entrance.
Are there cheap indoor activities in Hexham? Hexham Abbey is one of the premier cheap indoor activities in Hexham because general entry is completely free. It provides a dry, warm, and fascinating environment for families regardless of the weather.

The Visitor Verdict: What Parents Really Think
What Visitors Love

The "Big Story" museum section is praised for being modern and very easy for children to understand.
The Refectory café is a major highlight, often cited for its high-quality food and friendly service.
Parents appreciate that it is a calm, free indoor activity that feels welcoming to families.

What Visitors Don't Like

The Crypt can be a bit tight and intimidating for very small children who are afraid of the dark.
Parking in the immediate vicinity can be difficult during the Saturday market.

What to see

Detailed Inventory

The 7th-Century Saxon Crypt: Built by St Wilfrid using stone from Corbridge Roman Site.
The Night Stair: 35 worn stone steps that led from the dormitory to the Abbey.
The Frith Stool: An Anglo-Saxon coronation or sanctuary chair.
The Flavinus Tombstone: A 1st-century Roman memorial found beneath the Abbey floor.
The Painted Rood Screen: Featuring the "Dance of Death" and portraits of Northumbrian saints.
The Leschman Chantry: An ornate 15th-century stone chapel within the Abbey.
Acca’s Cross: Fragments of a beautifully carved 8th-century Saxon cross.
The "Big Story" Exhibition: A dedicated museum space with digital touchscreens and artefacts.
New for 2026: The "Echoes of the Past" Soundscape: A new audio installation for 2026 that recreates the sounds of medieval chanting and Saxon construction within the Crypt.
The Cloister Garth: A peaceful outdoor square where the original monastery buildings once stood.

Beyond the Main Attraction

Hexham Old Gaol: Just across the Market Place, you can visit England's oldest purpose-built prison for a grittier look at history.
Sele Park: Located directly behind the Abbey, it has a modern playground and plenty of space for a picnic.
The Queen's Hall Arts Centre: Situated on Beaumont Street, offering family theatre performances and art exhibitions.
Market Place: A historic square with a traditional market held on Tuesdays and Saturdays.

Events: For more upcoming events please visit here.

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Price

Price: Free

Birthday Parties

Offer Birthday Parties: Yes

Birthday Party Details

Hexham Abbey does not offer specific "themed" children's birthday party packages, but rooms in the Priory Buildings are available for private hire. Contact Email: [email protected]

Opening Times: 9:30 a.m. – 5:00 p.m

Address: Hexham Abbey, Beaumont Street, Hexham, UK

Post Code: NE46 3NB

Council: Northumberland

County: Northumberland

By Train: Hexham Station is on the Tyne Valley line. It is a 10-minute walk uphill to the town centre.
By Bus: Regular services run from Newcastle and Carlisle to the Hexham bus station.
By Car: Use postcode NE46 3NB.
Parking: Use the Wentworth Car Park (free for up to 4 hours with a parking disc) or the Beaumont Street pay and display.