Swimming in Hexham

Swimming in Hexham: Pools, Lessons, and Open Water

Hexham is fortunate to have a well-equipped public swimming pool right in the town, along with the backdrop of the River Tyne and the wider Tyne Valley for those who enjoy outdoor water activities.

Wentworth Leisure Centre Pool

The centrepiece of swimming in Hexham is Wentworth Leisure Centre, Wentworth Place. The main pool is a full 25 metres long with six competition-standard lanes. During morning lane swimming (6:30-8:50am) and lunchtime sessions (12:10-1:00pm), the lanes are split into easy, medium, and fast to keep things organised for all ability levels. Additional open and family swim sessions run throughout the day.

There is also a separate learner pool, shallower and warmer, used for swimming lessons and by younger or less confident swimmers.

Sessions are open to both members and pay-as-you-go swimmers. Booking in advance is recommended and can be done via the Active Northumberland website or app. The centre is managed by Places Leisure on behalf of Active Northumberland.

Swimming Lessons

Wentworth offers a structured swimming lessons programme for both children and adults. Children's lessons follow the Swim England framework, progressing from early water confidence through to full strokes and distance. Adult lessons are available for complete beginners through to those looking to refine technique.

Lessons are bookable through the Active Northumberland platform. The presence of both a main pool and a learner pool means different age groups and ability levels can be catered for simultaneously.

Aqua Fitness Classes

Alongside lane and open swimming, Wentworth runs aqua fitness classes in the pool. These are low-impact, high-resistance sessions suitable for a wide range of fitness levels including those recovering from injury or managing joint conditions. Check the current timetable on the Active Northumberland app.

Open Water Swimming in the Tyne Valley

The River Tyne runs through Hexham at Tyne Green Country Park, and the wider Tyne Valley offers some beautiful river scenery. Wild swimming has grown in popularity across Northumberland, though the Tyne at Hexham is not a managed open-water swim venue. Those interested in outdoor swimming should check water quality and safety conditions carefully and consider joining an organised open water swim group in the North East.

Practical Information

Wentworth Leisure Centre is easy to reach on foot from the town centre, and there is parking nearby. Changing facilities, lockers, and a poolside viewing area for swimming lessons are all available on site.