The Oldest Pubs in Hexham

Hexham is one of Northumberland's most ancient market towns, and its pub heritage runs almost as deep.

Dipton Mill Inn (c. 1820, on a site dating to the 1300s)

The Dipton Mill Inn claims one of the most layered histories of any pub in the county. The land has been in use since the 1300s — corn and fulling mills stood here for four centuries. The current building incorporates elements from around 1608. It has operated as a pub since 1820 and is now home to Hexhamshire Brewery, producing ales on site. No music, no fruit machines, no mobile signal — and it wears all of this as a badge of honour.

The Rat Inn, Anick (c. 1750)

The Rat Inn in Anick was originally converted from barns to a drovers' inn around 1750. The hamlet dates to a 1188 monks' settlement. The views across the Tyne Valley from the terrace are among the best of any pub in the region.

The Victorian Tap (1882)

The Victorian Tap dates to 1882, making it one of Hexham's oldest town-centre pubs in continuous use. Quality cask ales, open fires in winter, guest rooms, and a traditional atmosphere that has changed little over the decades.

The Coach & Horses, Priestpopple

A genuine coaching inn — the original archway into the yard, used by stagecoaches and their horses, is still visible. Historic photographs confirm its role during the 19th century. Recently refurbished to a high standard while retaining period character.

The Grapes Hotel

The Grapes on St Mary's Chare was well established by the late 19th century. By 1888 it hosted public wrestling bouts; 1898 plans show a rebuild with stables, a coach house, and multiple public rooms; by 1900 it had a solid walnut bar and stabling for 12-15 horses.

Further Exploration

The Hexham Local History Society (hexhamhistorian.org) maintains a photographic archive covering many of these pubs across the decades.