Things to do in Hexham

Vindolanda

This open-air fortress ruin has a long history and is of great archaeological significance. The nearby museum displays related artifacts, including leather goods, wooden items, iron artifacts, and jewelry, making it a great place to learn about local history and culture.

Housesteads Roman Fort-Hadrian's Wall

Housesteads Fort and Museum - Hadrian's Wall is one of the region's most significant archaeological sites. Visitors can explore exhibits detailing the Roman Empire's rule in Britain and the history of Hadrian's Wall. The museum displays extensive artifacts including Roman military weapons, equipment, daily utensils, and insights into soldiers' lifestyles. Notable archaeological discoveries are featured, such as remnants of Roman barracks and wall fragments. Guests may also stroll through surrounding ruins while admiring breathtaking views along Hadrian's Wall. The panoramic landscape offers a vivid historical immersion, allowing visitors to envision Roman soldiers guarding this ancient frontier.

Brocksbushes Farm Shop

Chesters Roman Fort and Museum - Hadrian's Wall

Chester was one of a series of forts built during the construction of Hadrian's Wall. This cavalry fort, known to the Romans as Cilurnum, was built around 124 AD. It housed approximately 500 cavalry and remained in occupation until the Romans left Britain in the 5th century. Pioneering excavations in the 19th century uncovered the structures visible today. These excavations unearthed one of Hadrian's Wall's finest collections of inscriptions and sculptures. Visitors can stroll through the area, admire the scenery, and immerse themselves in the charm of ancient Roman civilization!

Kielder Forest

Hexham Abbey

Hexham Abbey is a Gothic abbey known for its magnificent architecture and exquisite details. The abbey's exterior is in a typical Gothic style, and the interior is filled with traditional art, including stained glass windows, murals, and sculptures, showcasing medieval culture.

The Sill: National Landscape Discovery Centre

Vindolanda Museum and Archaeological Site

Corbridge Roman Town - Hadrian's Wall

2026 Global 100 - Best Things to Do

Edinburgh Castle

Edinburgh Castle stands atop a volcanic rock cliff at the end of the Royal Mile. For nearly a thousand years, it has served as a royal residence, military stronghold, and prison, bearing witness to Scotland's turbulent history. The castle brings together several iconic buildings and exhibition halls: St Margaret's Chapel, built in the twelfth century, is one of the earliest surviving stone structures in Edinburgh, and this Romanesque chapel still retains its medieval appearance; the One O'Clock Gun, in use since 1861, was originally fired to help calibrate time for ships in the Firth of Forth, a tradition that has continued for more than a hundred years and is one of the castle's most recognizable traditional features. In the Crown Room of the Royal Palace, the Honours of Scotland are displayed alongside the Stone of Destiny; this set of treasures, comprising a crown, a sceptre, and a sword of state, dates back to the sixteenth century and is an important symbol of Scottish sovereignty. The National War Museum on the west side of the castle uses uniforms, medals, and weapons to trace Scotland's centuries of military history. Looking north from the high ramparts of the castle, visitors can take in the magnificent sea views of the Firth of Forth; this is also an excellent spot for overlooking the skyline of Edinburgh's Old Town.