Summer Holiday Activities in Hexham

Summer in Hexham is genuinely good. The town sits in the heart of Northumberland with the River Tyne to the north, the Pennines to the west, and the Hadrian's Wall corridor on its doorstep.

Outdoor Swimming and Water Fun

Wentworth Leisure Centre has two heated swimming pools — a 25-metre main pool and a shallower pool for younger children — along with inflatable sessions during the holidays. The centre also has ten-pin bowling and Jungle Jacks soft play.

Holiday Clubs and Camps

Hexham Holiday Club is a free, faith-based programme of activities for children of all ages, organised by Hexham Community Partnership. Hexham Community Centre offers a Games and Craft Room from 11:30am to 2:00pm with games, crafts, LEGO, and a free lunch.

Allen Banks and Staward Gorge

About 20 minutes south of Hexham, this National Trust site is one of the finest free family days out in Northumberland. Children can hunt for bugs, build dens, follow the River Allen through the gorge, and spot red squirrels and roe deer. Trails range from easy riverside strolls to longer climbs. Car park: £2 for 4 hours (free for NT members).

Hexham Abbey — The Big Story

Hexham Abbey is free to visit and has interactive displays for younger visitors including dressing up, building a gothic arch, and a children's guide. The Refectory Cafe serves a children's menu. Baby-changing facilities on site.

Hexham Racecourse Family Evening

Hexham Racecourse runs family evenings where under-18s get in free with an adult. Entertainment includes bouncy castles and garden games.

Library Summer Reading Challenge

Hexham Library participates in the national Summer Reading Challenge. Children aged four to eleven sign up for free, borrow six books over the summer, and collect stickers towards a medal.

The Sele and Tyne Green

Don't overlook the free outdoor spaces. The Sele Play Park has been freshly refurbished with new climbing structures and swings. Tyne Green Country Park has a large enclosed playground, free parking, and picnic tables along the River Tyne.