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Regarded as "the best market town" in Britain, according to several well respected lifestyle publications, Hexham lies in the Tyne River Valley in the midst of the ancient pastoral countryside in Northumberland. And first-time visitors to this ideally picturesque hamlet quickly understand that Hexham's high reputation is rather well deserved.
There is a wealth of historical sites of interest and entertainments available in Hexham, particularly during the warmer months of the year. So if you are planning a tour of the market towns of the north-east, look no further than Hexham as a prime example of a closely knit pastoral community near the internationally famed ancient ruins of Hadrian's Wall, which dates to the second century of the Roman occupation of Britain.
Sites of Interest
History enthusiasts will certainly enjoy visiting the stately halls of Hexham Abbey, or the shocking exhibitions at the Hexham Old Gaol. But day trippers have plenty to do and see in town, as well. For instance, Hexham operates a bi-monthly farmer's market where local farmers convene en mass in order to keep the pastoral traditions of Hexham alive and well.
Yet aside from markets and ancient relics, one of the prime attractions in Hexham remains a tour of Hadrian's Wall, an old Roman defensive fortification that extends for more than 120 kilometres across Northumberland's rural countryside. As a World Heritage Site, Hadrian's Wall has a reputation as one of the most popular sites of interest in the north of Britain.
History
The story of the town of Hexham begins with the construction of the local church in the 7th century, which would later become Hexham Abbey in the 12th century, a marvellous, striking example of early English architecture. As the town prospered over the subsequent centuries, Hexham's covered market, colloquially knows as the Shambles, became the town's centrepiece and primary attraction.
Interestingly, Hexham was chosen as the site of one of the original, purpose-built jails in the country. And it is purported that the Hexham Old Gaol ranks amongst the oldest such penal institutions in the whole of Britain. Today, the old gaol houses a local history museum with an impressive collection of artefacts related to the building's dubious history.
Transport
Hexham is well provided with transportation options. But most first-time travellers would do well to arrive in Hexham by rail via the Hexham Railway Station, which lies a short distance north of town centre proper on the banks of the River Tyne. The station rests along the Newcastle and Carlisle Railway, which parallels the river, and makes frequent stops further up the line.
But travelling to Hexham by road is a good option, too. Just follow either the A69 or the A695 trunk roads to the west away from Newcastle upon Tyne, which lies east of Hexham. These roads too parallel the river in the same fashion as the Tyne Valley Line.
Places to Stay
The accommodations available in Hexham are both comfortable and conveniently situated in town centre. But self-catering guest houses in the rural areas of town near Hadrian's Wall are available for booking, as well. So if you are interested in a visit to the best market town in the country, Hexham is the destination for you.
Accommodation in Hexham
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