Walks in Hexham
One of the best ways to explore Hexham is on foot. With so much to see, from the striking Hexham Abbey and winding market streets to the Hexham Old Gaol and Hadrian’s Wall, just a short drive away, there’s a walking route for every visitor — regardless of age or ability.
Whether you’re a solo traveller, family group, or couple, take a look at our favourite Hexham walks and choose a route that takes your fancy. There’s a lot to learn and discover in this town full of history.
Walks in and around Hexham
Hexham is a small town with a population of around 13,000, but its personality is larger than life! A stroll around the town is all it takes if you want to immerse yourself in its historical charm, community spirit, and natural beauty.
Hexham Heritage Trail
Distance: 4.1 miles / 6.6 km
Duration: 2 to 2.5 hours
Difficulty: Easy
This relaxing walk starts at Hexham Abbey and loops through the town’s bustling Market Place, across Sele Park, past the Old Gaol (England’s earliest purpose-built prison), and back down to the River Tyne before looping back to your starting point.
It’s perfect for families, history lovers, and dog walkers. Market day is on a Tuesday if you’d like to get a true feel of this friendly town.
Hexham Abbey and parks walk
Distance: 2 miles / 3km
Duration: 1 to 1.5 hours
Difficulty: Very easy
If you’d prefer a shorter walk, you can adapt the Hexham Heritage Trail walk and start walking back to the Hexham Abbey starting point after walking across Sele Park. This is a very accessible walking route and offers excellent views of Hexham’s manicured gardens and medieval architecture.
Hexham river walks
With Tyne Green Country Park just an 11-minute walk from Hexham town centre, there are plenty of river walking routes for visitors to enjoy.
Hexham River Tyne path loop
We haven’t included a distance, difficulty, or duration for this loop, as it is completely up to you how you do this Hexham River Tyne walk!
Head to Tyne Green Country Park Path and stroll along its gravel and grass paths for as long as you want, and enjoy the views of the River Tyne, Tyne Green Golf Course, meadows, and woodlands. Simply find a bridge to loop back or turn back on yourself to return to the starting point.
Dukesfield Arches and Devil’s Water
Distance: 3.7 miles / 6km
Duration: 2 to 2.5 hours
Difficulty: Moderate
Ideal for nature lovers, dog walkers, and history fanatics, this circular woodland path walk starts at the Dukesfield Arches at Dukesfield Mill, just a 12-minute drive away from Hexham. On this walk, you’ll get to see the brick Gothic-style arches, Devil’s Water stream, and old mining relics and field paths.
Hexham Hadrian’s Wall walks
Hadrian’s Wall is one of Northumberland’s most popular sites. Spanning 73 miles from sea to sea, a Hadrian’s Wall walk is a fantastic chance to see some of the most breathtaking views in England and the remains of the north-west frontier of the Roman Empire.
Chesters Roman Fort circular walk
Distance: 4 miles / 6km
Duration: 1.5 to 2 hours
Difficulty: Easy / moderate
Start at Chesters Roman Fort car park, just a short 10-minute drive from Hexham. From there, you can explore the fort ruins, Hadrian’s Wall’s visible ruins, quaint stone bridges, and sweeping countryside vistas. Perfect for relaxed walkers, families, and four-legged friends.
Walltown Crags circular walk
Distance: 3.5 miles / 5.6km
Duration: 2 hours
Difficulty: Moderate with some steep parts
Head to Walltown Quarry Car Park to begin your walk — a 30-minute drive from Hexham.
The Walltown Crags circular walk showcases some of the most scenic sections of Hadrian’s Wall. Expect a steep climb with the reward of panoramic views, cliff-edge stretches, and maybe even a few wandering sheep if you’re lucky!
Explore Hexham with Visit Northumberland
Walking in Northumberland is the best way to experience everything this county has to offer.
With plenty of Hexham accommodation choices and things to do, you’ll never have a dull visit. Visit Hexham, and plan your stay with us.