Discover the Ultimate Hexham Bucket List: Must-Do Activities When Staying at Springhouse Holiday Park and Heathergate Holiday Park

Discover the Ultimate Hexham Bucket List: Must-Do Activities When Staying at Springhouse Holiday Park and Heathergate Holiday Park

Hexham, tucked away in the heart of Northumberland, is a charming market town with a rich history and surrounded by natural beauty. Whether you’re staying at Springhouse Holiday Park or Heathergate Holiday Park, you’re perfectly situated to explore everything this region has to offer. We’ve compiled a bucket list for the area to ensure you don’t miss a thing! 

Hexham, tucked away in the heart of Northumberland, is a charming market town with a rich history and surrounded by natural beauty. Whether you’re staying at Springhouse Holiday Park or Heathergate Holiday Park, you’re perfectly situated to explore everything this region has to offer. We’ve compiled a bucket list for the area to ensure you don’t miss a thing! 

5 Easy Changes to Make Your Holiday Home Eco-Friendly
  1. Explore Hexham Abbey

A trip to Hexham isn’t complete without visiting the iconic Hexham Abbey. This medieval masterpiece dates back to the 12th century and offers a glimpse into centuries of religious and architectural history. Wander through its stunning interior, admire the intricate stained glass windows, and explore its fascinating past. The Abbey often hosts events and concerts, which provide a unique opportunity to experience its grandeur in a completely different light. 

  1. Stroll Through Sele Park

Sele Park is a perfect spot for those who enjoy quiet walks in nature. This beautifully maintained park offers sweeping views of the Tyne Valley and features well-marked trails, picnic areas, and play areas for children. It’s an ideal place to unwind, have a picnic, or simply enjoy a leisurely stroll surrounded by greenery. 

  1. Visit Hadrian’s Wall

History enthusiasts should definitely make the journey to Hadrian’s Wall, an iconic Roman fortification that once marked the northern boundary of the Roman Empire. There are several well-preserved sections and museums nearby, such as the Vindolanda and Housesteads Roman Forts, where you can learn about the lives of Roman soldiers and see incredible artifacts. 

  1. Discover Chesters Roman Fort

Situated along Hadrian’s Wall, Chesters Roman Fort offers another peek into Roman Britain. This site is exceptionally well-preserved and includes a museum filled with remarkable Roman treasures. Wander through the barracks, bathhouse, and other ruins while imagining life as it was nearly 2,000 years ago. 

  1. Enjoy a Day at Kielder Water & Forest Park

For outdoor enthusiasts, Kielder Water & Forest Park is a must-visit! Just a short drive from Hexham, this expansive park features the largest man-made lake in Northern Europe and England’s largest forest where you can take part in activities such as hiking, biking, sailing, and wildlife spotting. The park also hosts various art installations and observation points where you can take in the breathtaking views. 

  1. Explore Hexham Abbey

A trip to Hexham isn’t complete without visiting the iconic Hexham Abbey. This medieval masterpiece dates back to the 12th century and offers a glimpse into centuries of religious and architectural history. Wander through its stunning interior, admire the intricate stained glass windows, and explore its fascinating past. The Abbey often hosts events and concerts, which provide a unique opportunity to experience its grandeur in a completely different light. 

  1. Stroll Through Sele Park

Sele Park is a perfect spot for those who enjoy quiet walks in nature. This beautifully maintained park offers sweeping views of the Tyne Valley and features well-marked trails, picnic areas, and play areas for children. It’s an ideal place to unwind, have a picnic, or simply enjoy a leisurely stroll surrounded by greenery. 

  1. Visit Hadrian’s Wall

History enthusiasts should definitely make the journey to Hadrian’s Wall, an iconic Roman fortification that once marked the northern boundary of the Roman Empire. There are several well-preserved sections and museums nearby, such as the Vindolanda and Housesteads Roman Forts, where you can learn about the lives of Roman soldiers and see incredible artifacts. 

  1. Discover Chesters Roman Fort

Situated along Hadrian’s Wall, Chesters Roman Fort offers another peek into Roman Britain. This site is exceptionally well-preserved and includes a museum filled with remarkable Roman treasures. Wander through the barracks, bathhouse, and other ruins while imagining life as it was nearly 2,000 years ago. 

  1. Enjoy a Day at Kielder Water & Forest Park

For outdoor enthusiasts, Kielder Water & Forest Park is a must-visit! Just a short drive from Hexham, this expansive park features the largest man-made lake in Northern Europe and England’s largest forest where you can take part in activities such as hiking, biking, sailing, and wildlife spotting. The park also hosts various art installations and observation points where you can take in the breathtaking views. 

  1. Wander the Market Place

Hexham’s bustling Market Place is the heart of the town and home to a variety of shops, cafes, and historic buildings. On market days, you’ll find stalls selling everything from fresh produce to handmade crafts, providing a perfect opportunity to pick up local delicacies and unique souvenirs. 

  1. Immerse Yourself in Local History at Hexham Old Gaol

Step back in time with a visit to Hexham Old Gaol, England’s oldest purpose-built prison. This fascinating museum showcases exhibits on crime and punishment from medieval times to the present day. Interactive displays and activities make this a fun and educational experience for all ages. 

  1. Experience the Allendale Tar Bar’l

If your visit coincides with New Year’s Eve, don’t miss the Allendale Tar Bar’l festival. This unique event has been celebrated for centuries and involves local men carrying flaming tar barrels through the streets of Allendale, culminating in a bonfire at midnight. It’s a spectacular and unforgettable way to ring in the New Year. 

  1. Taste Local Flavours

No visit to Hexham is complete without sampling the local cuisine. From traditional pub fare to contemporary dining, the area boasts a plethora of eateries that cater to all tastes. Don’t miss out on trying some Northumberland specialties such as stotties (a type of bread), Craster kippers, and locally brewed ales. 

  1. Explore the Hexham Farmers’ Market

Held twice a month in the Market Place, the Hexham Farmers’ Market is a showcase of local produce and craftsmanship. Here, you can sample and purchase fresh, seasonal foods directly from local farmers and artisans. From homemade jams and cheeses to freshly baked goods and organic vegetables, the market offers a delightful array of products. It’s a fantastic way to support local businesses and indulge in the flavours of Northumberland. 

  1. Wander the Market Place

Hexham’s bustling Market Place is the heart of the town and home to a variety of shops, cafes, and historic buildings. On market days, you’ll find stalls selling everything from fresh produce to handmade crafts, providing a perfect opportunity to pick up local delicacies and unique souvenirs. 

  1. Immerse Yourself in Local History at Hexham Old Gaol

Step back in time with a visit to Hexham Old Gaol, England’s oldest purpose-built prison. This fascinating museum showcases exhibits on crime and punishment from medieval times to the present day. Interactive displays and activities make this a fun and educational experience for all ages. 

  1. Experience the Allendale Tar Bar’l

If your visit coincides with New Year’s Eve, don’t miss the Allendale Tar Bar’l festival. This unique event has been celebrated for centuries and involves local men carrying flaming tar barrels through the streets of Allendale, culminating in a bonfire at midnight. It’s a spectacular and unforgettable way to ring in the New Year. 

  1. Taste Local Flavours

No visit to Hexham is complete without sampling the local cuisine. From traditional pub fare to contemporary dining, the area boasts a plethora of eateries that cater to all tastes. Don’t miss out on trying some Northumberland specialties such as stotties (a type of bread), Craster kippers, and locally brewed ales. 

  1. Explore the Hexham Farmers’ Market

Held twice a month in the Market Place, the Hexham Farmers’ Market is a showcase of local produce and craftsmanship. Here, you can sample and purchase fresh, seasonal foods directly from local farmers and artisans. From homemade jams and cheeses to freshly baked goods and organic vegetables, the market offers a delightful array of products. It’s a fantastic way to support local businesses and indulge in the flavours of Northumberland. 

5 Easy Changes to Make Your Holiday Home Eco-Friendly

What will you start with?

What will you start with? 

With so much to see and do, Hexham and its surrounding area promise an unforgettable holiday experience. Make sure to tick off these bucket list activities to fully immerse yourself in the rich history, culture, and stunning landscapes of Northumberland. What else would you add? We’d love to hear your suggestions! 

 

With so much to see and do, Hexham and its surrounding area promise an unforgettable holiday experience. Make sure to tick off these bucket list activities to fully immerse yourself in the rich history, culture, and stunning landscapes of Northumberland. What else would you add? We’d love to hear your suggestions! 

 

Related news