Hexham Abbey

Hexham Abbey is a very imposing building which stands in the heart of the town and is hard to miss. There is already a lot of information about the history of the abbey online, so if you want to know more, head over to their website where there are facts galore: Hexham Abbey

The abbey's website highlight's the top ten things to see there, so I have covered those here instead and it is an impressive list of top ten things! To give you a bit of context though, here is a very brief history of the church:

Hexham Abbey's origins trace back to the 7th century around 673, when it was founded by the renowned Anglo-Saxon bishop, Wilfrid. The abbey's initial construction was a testament to Wilfrid's dedication and ambition in spreading the Christian faith. The church he built was a marvel of its time, incorporating elements of both Roman and Anglo-Saxon architecture. This mix of styles is still evident today, particularly in the crypt which houses some of the earliest examples of Christian art in Britain.

The abbey's peaceful existence was frequently interrupted by the turbulent events of the Middle Ages. Viking raiders, Scottish invasions, and political upheaval all took their toll on the site. Much of the abbey was destroyed in the late 13th century by William Wallace who ordered shrines, relics and books to be burned. However, one of the most dramatic periods in the Abbey's history occurred during the Dissolution of the Monasteries under Henry VIII. In 1537, the Abbey was dissolved, and its vast lands and wealth were seized by the Crown. Fortunately, the local community recognized the building's historical significance and rallied to preserve it. The church was spared demolition and became the parish church of Hexham.

In the more peaceful centuries that followed, the Abbey underwent various restorations and alterations. The Victorian era saw a particular focus on Gothic Revival architecture, with significant changes made to the interior. However, these interventions were often guided by a desire to restore the building to its medieval glory, rather than to impose a new style. In 1828, part of the abbey collapsed and was re-built by architect John Dobson and further improvements were made in the early 1900s, including the introduction of electric lighting.

So, what are the must see parts of the church? Here is a notable selection of artifacts in the abbey:

1. Banners. There is the 'Hawick Banner', British Legion banners dating back to the 1920s, Military Colours and the Garter Standard of Viscount Allendale amongst others.

2. Stained glass windows. The windows celebrate themes from the new testament, the apostles and northern saints including Cuthbert, Bede and Wilfrid himself.

3. The Frith Stool. My favourite! This stone seat was likely made when the original church stood here in 674. The word 'frith' means 'peace and security' and was a safe place for those fleeing conflict.

4. The Phelps Organ. There had been an organ in the church since the 1700s, however, the current one was designed by Lawrence Phelps and was installed in 1974. It apparently has an impressive tone and musical flexibility and the oak case makes it look very grand indeed.

5. The Night Stair. Another fascinating piece of history dating back to the 13th century. The well worn steps have been used ever since and you can climb them to visit the gallery at the top which gives you great views over the abbey.

8. Acca's Cross. Acca was bishop of Hexham from 709-732 and was an accomplished musician and theologian. The cross is not complete and has weathered over the centuries - part of it was used a lintel over a doorway on a nearby farm for many years. Oops.

9. Sculptures. There have been many discoveries of carvings at Hexham over the years, some pre-dating the original church. A collection can be seen in the Big Story Exhibition.

10. The Saxon Crypt. Wilfrid was heavily inspired by a trip to Rome and his church was built in a Roman style. The crypt was built from stones from the Roman site at Corbridge and there are some Roman friezes that have survived the centuries. Fascinating! We didn't visit the crypt so if anyone has any pics of the crypt please let us know.

So there are some highlights to look out for. The abbey also has a cafe and shop and there are various exhibitions and events held over the year. Currently there at the moment is an exhibition called 'Threads through Creation', which showcases 12 huge tapestries by skilled artisans.

A fascinating place in a lovely town - a definite must-visit.